Copyright: XReplace-32 help file - version 1.7 (c) Daniel Doubrovkine - Stolen Technologies Inc. - uniGE -  1996-97
Citation: (c) Daniel Doubrovkine - Stolen Technologies Inc. - uniGE -  1996-97


users guide
XReplace-32 User's Guide

The manual is constructed the way the user can work through simple replacements operations and understand the complex possibilities of XReplace-32. The main core of XReplace-32 is it's replacements interface which is completely explained below. Among the features of XReplace-32 you will find interline and multiline replacements, multiple replacements and files tagging, containers, complete macro implementation, macro shedule, unattended replacements, command line processing and much more. XReplace-32 is more than a simple tool, it was thought and has been made to make your work fast and simple, because you don't have time to lose for repetitive annoying tasks. If you have suggestions or comments, if you desire new features, simply e-mail and there're good chances for it to be done! All items marked with a red star sign * are registered version features exclusively. Check this page for why and how to register!

About XReplace-32, comments from users, disclaimer, contact and download information

 XReplace-32 Interface

•	File Selection (files you want to make replacements in)

-> how to tag wanted files, file flags

-> Tagged Files List, load and save, Redirections

-> full state save containers

•	Replacements Grid (strings, lines you want to replace)

-> replacements grid, single row options, interline and bound replacements

-> successful replacements, prompted replace

-> full state save containers

* XReplace-32 macros

 •	Managing, Writing and Executing

-> Macro Editor

-> macro commands

-> macro examples

-> executing and checking macros

-> batch mode, command line processing

* XReplace-32 shedule

•	XReplace-32 Shedule and ActivXR

-> how to shedule macros, managing sheduled objects

-> ActivXR shedule module (activating shedule mode)

XReplace-32 options

•	replacements

•	interface

•	log

Registering XReplace-32

What's New in XReplace-32

Frequently Asked Questions

License Agreement


selections - how to tag files, file flags
How to Tag Files, File Flags

The Drives List allows to select among the drives of your computer and of those mapped through a network. The Directories List will automatically be updated for the correct drive.

The Directories List allows to parse through the accessible directores and to select entire directories structures:

• you may drag and drop an entire directory to the Tagged Files List

• simply choose a directory and holding the left button, move the mouse to the Tagged Files List, then release the button - files in the current and in all subdirectories matching at least an item from the File Flags List  list will be tagged

• drag and drop behaviour  changes depending on the options of the interface group

• holding the control key and drag and dropping a directory will not drop the subdirectories

• you may alternatively use the "Drag & Drop" command from the "File Select" menu

• you may use the "WildCard and Drop command" from the "File Select" menu which will also prompt for an exclusive flag for files match

 drag and drop the current directory structure

 wildcard drop the current directory structure

 wildcard select the files in the current directory

 remove all selected files

The File Flags (Filters or Wildcards) allow to select only some files. * replacements any string and ? a single character. Thus, *.* tags absolutely any file.

• almost all tag and drag and drop operations are performed regarding the whole file flags (filters) list, so you can specify multiple filters

• you may specify an exclusive filter using the "Clear and Add" command from the "File Flags" menu

• you may remove the current filter using the "Remove" command from the "File Flags" menu; If no items are left, the flag becomes *.* .

• you may add a new filter using the "Add" command from the "File Flags" menu

 clear file flags and set a new one

 remove the current files flag

 add a new files flag

The Files List allows to perform individual file selections.

• drag and drop a single file from the Files List to the Tagged Files List

• select files of a specific wildcard (filter) without adding this filter to the File Flags List by choosing the "Wildcard Select" command from the "File Select" menu

• drag and drop can be interrupted using the interrupt speedbutton or the cancel button depending on the mode selected by the XReplace-32 interface group options

• you may drag and drop directories and files directly from the File Manager (Explorer). This allows to tag files from a network without assigning a drive letter to network drives

 cancel almost all running operations


selections - tagged files list, load and save
Tagged Files List, Load and Save, Redirections

The Tagged Files List contains the current selections, the files you wish to perform replacements in. Please read this page about tagging the desired files.

• to remove a file or a directory with all it's subdirectories and files from the tagged files list, simply press the delete key, click on the trash can or drag and drop the structure to the trash can.

 the trash can

XReplace-32 can save and load the selected files' lists. Files where those lists are saved to are called "containers".

• you may use the "Load" and "Save" commands from the "File Select" menu or it's equivalent speedbuttons

• you may also drag and drop a container to the Tagged Files List holding the shift button, also from the Windows File Manager (Explorer). This will load the container, unless it's Full State.

• containers have version control. This means you can transparently save and load a container of a previous XReplace-32 release.

• you should preferably use Full State containers through Full State Save, unless you don't want to save the replacements grid as well.

 load a container

 save a container (holding the shift button will save with current name if available)

If you click on an item tagged in the Tagged Files List with the right mouse button, the following menu appears:

• View / Execute:	launch the viewer, same as double-clicking on a file in the Files List

• Parse to File:	set the directory of the Directories List to the one of the tagged file selected, will also parse to network items

• Remove from Selection:	remove the selected item from selection

• * Redirect	see below (File Redirection)

• Remove All:	clear the Tagged Files List

• Load and Save:	load or save a container

* File Redirection:

File Redirection is a very powerful feature of XReplace-32. It allows to specify alternative file names and directories for output files. To redirect a file to an another location, simple use "Redirect ..." from the popup menu, "Redirect ..." from the "File Select" menu click on the "Redirect" speedbutton or press Alt+Enter. You will be prompted for a new name. You may enter a complete path or a single filename. You may also enter a network redirection (like "\\Distant_PC\Hdd\...").

Redirections inherit from higher nodes:

In this case, "contact.htm" will be redirected to "l:\newworks\cj - new\public_html\newfile.htm". If you specify a full path (with drive!) for a redirection, all nested (higher node) redirections will be ignored:

In this case, "events.htm" will be redirected to c:\temp\events.htm (because "c:\temp" is an existing directory, otherwise a file named "c:\temp" would have been created).

Redirections are not checked as you create them, but only when you execute the replacements operation. Redirection directories are created automatically, even if more than one level does not exist. Backup files are still created in the source directory, not in the redirected one. Containers of course save and load redirections.

 redirect a selected file / directory in the Tagged Files List


selections - full state save containers
Full State Save Containers

Full State Save is the preferable method of saving tagged files and grid replacements in XReplace-32. Full State Save feature can load and save containers of any version of XReplace-32 and is available through the "Full State Save" command in the "Commands" menu or through the Full State Save speedbutton.

 full state save (holding the shift button will save with current name if available)

The Full State save of the current version of XReplace-32 saves and loads:

• the tagged files list

• the replacements grid, including multiline and interline replacements

To load a full state container, simply use the grid replacements load feature. You may also drag and drop the container file to the Replacements Grid. Loading a container will erase all current selections in XReplace-32 unless the shift key is pressed during the loading process. The Tagged Files List will be erased anyway. Future versions of XReplace-32 will implement full merge possibilities. XReplace-32 will identify the container and act accordingly.

Future versions will support saving of shedule and macro structures, XReplace-32 options and personalized interface. Normal saves will probably be abandonned, that's why you are strongly advised to use Full State Save.


replacements - replacements grid
Replacements Grid, Single Row Options, Interline and Bound

The Replacements Grid allows you to enter the replacements you wish to perform in the files from the Tagged Files List. To learn how to tag files, please read this page.

It is divided into two sides: replace from and replace with. Both sides accept multiple lines and have no limitations in text sizes.The multiline replacements in XReplace is quite a unique feature.

• enter the text that is to be replaced in the replace from column

• enter the text that the found occurences should be replaced with

• you may split the replace from side in order to perform multiline replacements (discussed below)

• * you may split the replace with side in order to perform multiline bound replacements (discussed below)

• lines are automatically added to the replacements grid

• you may insert lines manually using the "Add Line" command from the "Replacements" menu or it's equivalent speedbutton

• you may delete a line using the "Remove Line" command from the "Replacements" menu or it's equivalent speedbutton

• you may invert the grid (inverting split grid makes no sense) so replace from becomes replace with and vice-versa

• you may clear the grid entirely

• you can navigate through the grid using the keyboard with the control key pressed

• you may save and load the replacements grid; please read about the Full State Save containers

• you may drag and drop container files to the replacements grid to load them; you can also drag and drop files from the Windows File Manager (Explorer)

• * you may drag and drop a row to an another location using the last column of the grid that acts like an anchor. Holding the shift key will insert a new row with the same contents as the dragged one. Holding the control key will exchange two rows.

Check this page for more details on the replacement operation itself.

 remove a line

 insert an empty line to the Replacements Grid

 exchange replace from and replace with

 erase the Replacements Grid

 load a Replacements Grid

 save a Replacements Grid (holding the shift button will save with current name if available)

* XReplace-32 can copy and paste tab dilimited information from the clipboard. You may use a spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel to create replacement grids at your convenience. Simply use the first column for the source replacement, the second column for the left split side, third for the target replacement and the fourth for the target split side. (If you use two (three) columns only, no left split side (right split side) will be inserted.) Then copy the rows and paste them with the command button below or choose the appropriate item from the Replacements menu.

 attempt a paste of the current Clipboard contents *

 copy grid text contents (the source, target and split sides) *

XReplace-32 can perform interline replacements and interline bound replacements. This means that you may replace any text between two strings. To replace all titles in your HTML pages for example, you should have the following grid line:

This will replace anything starting by "<TITLE>" and ending by "</TITLE>" by "<TITLE>XReplace-32 Rulez!</TITLE>" (in case the include source for interline option is enabled) and by "XReplace-32 Rulez!" if not.

 split the replace from column of the current line for interline replacements

This will replace anything starting by "left" and ending by "right" by "new left section...new right section" (where "..." is the text between "left" and "right" in the file replacements are made in, in case the include source for interline option is enabled) and by "new left sectionnew right section" otherwise (note that you always have to specify spaces either in the left or in the right side).

 split the replace with column of the current line for interline bound replacements *

* You may toggle the following options that will be applied to a single row by pressing one of the buttons or directly clicking on the options column. An icon will appear to confirm your selection. If the respective options are enabled (like "include source for interline", the individual selections will have no effect), if not, XReplace-32 will pay attention to individual row options while performing the replacements.

  toggle include source for interline and bound interline *

  case sensitive replacements *

  whole words only replacements *

  prompt on replace *


replacements - successful replacements, prompted replace
How to Perform Successful Replacements, Prompted Replace

Ingridients required to perform successful simple replacements:

• tagged files, please read this page to learn how to do that

• correctly filled replacements grid, please read this page to learn how to do that

• a few seconds to let a superfast replacements algorithm do the job for you, even with a large quantity of big files

 Just press the Go! button to perform the replacements or choose the "Go!" command from the "Commands" menu.

 you can interrupt current replacements

You may perform replacements using XReplace-32 command line, macros and sheduled replacements.

There's an exclusive feature of prompted replacement. If the prompted replace mode is enabled from the replacements section of the XReplace-32 options, each time an occurrence is found, you will see the following window:

this file:

Yes: 	replaces the current occurrences

No: 	does not replace the current occurrence

Yes to All: 	replaces this and all other occurrences that may be found in the current file

No to All: 	does not replace the current occurrence and skips all other occurrences that may be found in the current file

all files:

Yes to All: 	replaces this and all occurrences that may be found in the selected files that have not yet been processed

No to All: 	equivalent to the cancel command, does not replace the current line as well as all other occurrences that may be found in the current file and stops the process after the current file is entirely processed

* Important: if an single row option enables prompt on replace and you choose No to All, it will be applied to all replacements, not just the one that set the option.


options - about
XReplace-32 Options

About Section

The about section gives information about XReplace-32 version, your computer (my computer actually on the image above) and your operating system.

Press OK to confirm the changes, Cancel to restore the previous options and close the window.

The two left buttons reset respectively default options for all pages and default options for the current page.

The World button launches the registration application in the unregistered version of XReplace-32.


options - replacements
XReplace-32 Options

Replacements Section

• case sensitive	this enabled/disabled the case sensitive replacement; if you want to replace "abcd" by "cdef", with this option enabled "aBcD" will not be replaced. There's also a single row option equivalent.

• overwrite backup	if this option is enabled, you will not be prompted for overwrite in case a backup file (.XRP??) already exists; all backup files will thus be automatically overwritten. If this option is not enabled, XReplace-32 will be able to keep up to 99 backup files (.XRP00 to .XRP99 for drives supporting long file names and *~00.XRP to *~99.XRP for networked drives without LFN support).

• always create backups	backup files are anyway created as replacements operations are performed; XReplace-32 will delete backup files in case no replacements have been made - this option if enabled allows to leave all backup files

• backup modified files	if enabled, modified files only will have a backup, thus the always create backups option is ignored

• include source for interline	the interline replacement bounds will also be written in case this option is enabled, there's also a single row option equivalent

• prompt on replace	this enables/disabled the prompted replace mode

• warn if binary	warn as binary files are encountered (no action is taken on binary files)

• whole words only	perform replacements on whole words only. Note that for interline replacements this applies to both sides of the interline. A source replacement which starts and ends with spaces or enters will always be a whole word. There's also a single row option equivalent.

• warn if attribute protected	warn in case the file to replace is hidden, read-only or system; this option enables to choose to perform the replacements or abandon the replacements operation for the current file or the whole tagged files list. Files keep their attribute even if XReplace performs replacements in them.

• ignore errors * 	allows to ignore errors and messages at unattended operations. Errors are ignored and this option is to be used at your own risk. You should enable logging to check for eventual errors that have occured during unattended mode operations.

• backup extension	choose an extension for backup files, long names are fully supported

• always copy redirected * 	use this option to copy redirected files in case no replacements were made as well; this is extremely useful to redirect a whole directory to an another location after performing a replacement


options - interface
XReplace-32 Options

Interface Section

• default file viewer	allows to browse a different file viewer. You may view a file by double clicking on a name in the Files List; the default viewer is the Notepad.

• use default viewer only	if this option is enabled, double clicking on a file in the files list box will call the default viewer only instead of the associated program

• show file glyphs	show the corresponding glyph (icon) with each file in the files list box

• show tagged files' glyphs	show the glyphs in the tagged files list

• remember directories	allows to remember all lately used directories, so you restart  XReplace with the directories of the last session

• restart with current directory	enables you to restart XReplace-32 with the directory of the last session

• permanent response	enable this option to be able to work with XReplace-32 as it drops files to the replacements grid thus taking advantage of the OS multithreading capabilities. This will dramatically slow the drag and drop under Windows 95, but will show only little difference under Windows NT.

• autoactivate ActiveXR *  	activate the automatic shedule launcher each time you start XReplace-32 (for those who use the sheduled operations exclusively)

• do activate empty ActiveXR * 	when activating the shedule, keep it even when no replacements are sheduled


options - log
XReplace-32 Options

Log Section

• create log	this option checked shows the whole options list below. This confirms the creation of a log file with specifications of what should be included to it below.

• log file	defines the log filename (you can browse an existing or a new file). In case no directory is specified, XReplace-32 will create a log file in the current directory of startup or as he options window is closed (in case the Create Log option was toggled).

• append to log	if this option is enabled, XReplace will conserve the log file and append all information to it. Using this option you can create a unique log file for all your work with XReplace-32.

• edit log after operation	if this option is enabled, the log file will be edited right after the replacements operation using NOTEPAD.

• include to log	this group sets the items that should be included to the log file

• general job header	include general information as a new replacements operation is started, includes main replacements options, states, etc...

• modified files	include log information (amount of occurences found and replacements made) for modified files

• untouched files	include log information (amount of occurences found) for untouched files

• file size	include the file size in which replacements were performed before and after the operation

• operations time	some lines describing general operation contain time and date when it has been performed. If this option is disabled, time and date won't appear.

• parsed directories	include the path as XReplace-32 enters it only

• full file paths	include the full path to a filename, as XReplace-32 starts working with it

• log everything	log everything possible about XReplace-32, including startup time, termination time, etc...

• batch mode processing * 	log XReplace-32 unattended / batch operations launched from command line

• shedule and ActiveX * 	log shedule and ActiveX operations

• interface jobs	log directory and filter changes

• detailed drag & drop	log file tagging (log file will grow exponentially)

• detail macro operations * 	log detailed macro operations


macros - editor
Macro Editor *

Macro implementation is one of the most amazing, useful and powerful features of XReplace-32. It allows to automate a lot of repetitive work and thus save hours of time. Macro Editor can be called through the "Macros" command in the "Shedule & Macros" menu.

Writing macros is extremely simple. You should create a new macro, then simply edit it using the editor. Macro files are simple text files, so if you don't like the editor, feel free to use you favorite one. Check this page for the macro syntax and this one for macro examples.

 the open macros list:

the macro editor:

 create a new macro

 load an existing macro

 save the currently selected macro. There's also a "Save As" command from the "Macro" menu

 close macro, you will be prompted if macro has not been saved

 delete macro, macro is closed and file is deleted

 save all open macros, you will be prompted if macro has not been yet given a name

 close all macros, one by one

 close the macro editor

 macros shedule

 activate ActiveXR


macros - commands
Macros Syntax *

currently supported macro commands and operations (this list will grow fast), check this page for macro example

note: 	no validity verification is made as unattended mode runs a macro, an invalid line is signaled to the debugger as you check the macro for errors, but operation is never interrupted - lines with errors are simply ignored; still errors are logged if you choose to have a log file

• filters

filter_set filter	sets the files selection filter to filter, previously selected filters are deleted

filter_add filter	adds a filter filter to the filters list, no verification of any kind is made, including duplicate check

filter_clear	clears the filters list, the *.* filter becomes the default, but is not explicitly added

• drives and directories

chd drive	changes the drive to «drive», for network drives, the Directory List Box will only be changed

cd directory	changes directory to directory, drive is also changed (unless it's a networked directory); without a drive specification, directory is changed according to the current drive and directory

• files list

file_select file	selects a file named file in the file list box (does NOT drag and drop it)

file_clear	clears all file selections in the file list box

file_deselect file	unselects a file named file in the file list box, files that don't exist are ignored

• tagging

dirdragdrop	tags current entire directory structure

filedragdrop	tags current file list selections

wildcard_select filter	selects all files matching filter in the current directory

wildcard_drop filter	selects all files matching filter in the current directory and it's subdirectories

removeall	removes all selections from the tagged list

• replacements grid

grid_clear	clear the replacements grid

grid_invert	invert the replacements grid

grid_load file	loads a container named file without any distinction of container version (note that full state containers load tagged files lists also)

• options

case_sensitive true / false	set the case sensitive replacements option

ignore_errors true / false	set the ignore errors replacements option

include_source true / false	set the include source for interline replacements option

whole_words true / false	set the whole words only replacements option

copy_redirect true / false	set the always copy redirected files option

• macros and commands

call macro	calls a macro with filename macro, you should specify a complete path

go	launches the replacements, note that unattended mode launches the replacement automatically after executing the demanded macro

quit	quits XReplace-32, note that unattended mode quits XReplace-32 automatically after executing the demanded macro and performing the replacements


macros - executing and checking
Executing and Checking *

Executing or checking a macro is very simple. You may choose either "Execute Macro!" or "Compile Macro!" from the "Run" menu. Checking (compiling) a macro will simple parse the currently edited macro for syntax errors. Macro execution cannot be interrupted, but unless macro is run from the Shedule AcriveXR module, individual actions like drag and drop can still be broken by user intervention. Check this page for macro examples.

 run a macro (macro will first be saved)

 check a macro, results can be seen in the macro status tree

• the compiler window logs all operations and reports errors


shedule - organizer
Macros Shedule *

Macros Shedule is absolutely indispensable for a webmaster. Repetitive tasks can now be done without any intervention at all. (be sure to go on vacation this year:)

Using the sheduler, you can run any XReplace-32 macros.

A shedule object is specified time and day for a macro to be executed. A single macro can have as many shedule objects as wanted.

You should first drag and drop the macro(s) files you wish to shedule to the Shedule Object List:

• you may delete a macro from the Shedule Object List by pressing the delete key or choosing "Delete" from the "Shedule / Macro" menu.

• you may add a shedule object by clicking on the right mouse button on the macro filename in the Shedule Object List or by choosing "Add New Shedule" in the "Shedule / Macro" menu

• you may modify a shedule object by clicking with the right mouse button on a shedule object or by choosing "Add Modify Selected" from the "Shedule / Macro" menu

 add a new shedule object

 add a new shedule object or modify a selected one (depends on if a macro or a shedule object is selected)

 delete selected shedule object or macro

 call the macro editor

 activate the ActiveXR shedule

 close macro shedule

Choosing time and date for your macro to be executed is very simple: each time you ask to add or modify a shedule object you get the Shedule Unattended window:

The time and date shedule is a non constrain method. This means that more things you add to the shedule object, more precise does the moment of execution become. The only obligation for your shedule to run is to have a valid time. If that is not the case, 00:00 will be set.

To add an item to the shedule object, simply drag and drop it either on the Cheese Panel or to the corresponding list box. You may thus choose a weekday, a month, a date, a year and time. You may freely choose multiple items and all of them will be taken in consideration. To delete an item from a shedule, simply double click on it.

The most simple shedule is "any Weekday - any Month - any Year at 00:00" which is done by clicking "OK" as the Shedule Unattended window pops up. The actual macro will be executed every day at midnight. If you'd like to execute your macro every 3rd of each month at 11:30, simply add "3" for the date and "11:30" for the time. Confirm with "OK" and check the resulting shedule object description.

To make your shedules run you must activate the ActiveXR module.

Check this page for macro examples.


shedule - ActiveXR
ActivXR *

In order to get your macros running, you must activate this module. You may do it from almost anywhere in XReplace-32. The ActivXR module is exclusive in XReplace-32, so no other part of XReplace will run. Sheduled macros will be executed as their time has come. Note that errors in macros may pause the module till user intervention. ActivXR will log all operations if log options are enabled.

 ActivXR

 close ActivXR and go to macro editor

 close ActivXR and go to macro sheduler

You can minimize ActivXR to a tray icon. The three commands are available from a menu by clicking on the tray icon with the right mouse button. Clicking on the tray icon with the left mouse button will popup the ActivXR  main window (shown above).


replacements - command line, batch mode
Command Line, Batch Mode *

XReplace-32 has the ability to perform several tasks from command line. The feature is coupled with macro and shedule support making virtually everything possible as if you were doing it yourself by hand every time. Command Line execution is called Batch Mode.

command line syntax:

xrep32 [container] [macro] [-noexec] [-noquit]

• the container is a valid XReplace-32 full state container

• the macro must be a valid XReplace-32 macro. XReplace will behave accordingly

XReplace-32 will parse the command line arguments and perform accordingly. A container will be loaded. Every file that was not identified as a valid XReplace-32 container will be assumed as being a macro and will be executed. You may specify multiple containers and macros in the order you like. If no macros are executed and a contianer loaded, XReplace-32 will automatically launch one replacements operation. You can force the opposite behaviour using the noexec option. If any of those parameters is present, XReplace-32 will automatically terminate, unless critical errors occured or the noquit parameter was specified.

For example, launching XReplace-32 with just this option (for example: "xrep32 c:\xreplace\john.xpl"), XReplace-32 will:

• load the container

• execute the replacements

• terminate

For old versions compatibility reasons, the "-" character can be omitted in parameters. This is subject to change in future versions.

Do check the "Ignore Errors when Unattended" option.


about XReplace-32, download and information
About XReplace-32, Download Info, etc...

* * *

 Webmasters, HTML authors, and most computer users will be delighted with the versatility of this search-and-replace utility.  XReplace-32 lets you select files by  wildcard or gather and then drag and drop them from the built-in window. You can specify a list of search-and-replace strings in the program's grid, make replacements  case-sensitive, and save and reload replacement lists. You can even instruct XReplace to prompt you for a decision. This tool is a blessing for Webmasters who need to change references in a large number of files, or for users wanting to change paths in multiple .ini files.

(taken from http://www.shareware.com)

* * *

XReplace-32 saved me HOURS of work. I really appreciate it! I used XReplace-32 to re-tag 150 HTML pages. I love it!

* * *

I´m very pleased with your application XReplace; I use it almost every day in my daily work as a webmaster.

* * *

I found your x-replace32 really useful, especially when I had to make replacements for about 250 variables (which were changed by some stupid (censored)!!!) excuse the expression!!! in about 1200 programs. Keep up the good work.

* * *

I'd like to compliment your effort to create Xreplace-32. It's a great thing!

* * *

You have done a wonderful job in create X-Replace. I want to say THANK YOU VERY MUCH. I'll later try to experiment X-Replace with my reserach data set. I think it should work. After that, I may have some suggestions to your excellent X-Replace.

* * *

I would like to thank you for this marvelous program.  It has helped me many times in maintaining my web page ... . My page contains a large number of pages that sometimes need to be updated all at once.  Keep up the good work!

* * *

I went to ZDNet today and see that XReplace-32 was named "Hot File of the Day". Looks like you are hitting the big time :-)

* * *

Nach ldngerer Suche im Internet bin ich auf Dein XReplace-32 gestossen. Das Programm ist wirklich super! Ich möchte meine HTML-Files komprimieren und ein bisschen "unleserlicher" machen. Das Ersetzen aller mehrfach hintereinander vorkommenden Leerzeichen geht ganz toll!

* * *

Your software is absolutely *awesome*. I've been searching for a multitext replacement tool as powerful as your's for years. There's nearly nothing it can't handle -- it saves so much time and pain!

* * *

(award winning comment:) Now that I use XReplace-32 I have plenty of time to look at porn.

There's a XReplace-32 discussion forum!

http://www.infomaniak.ch/~dblock/agnes/split.html

Disclaimer: This software is NOT free. Any person, company or organisation using XReplace-32 should buy it from the author himself or from an authorized dealer. You may not modify, sell or abuse of this software without a total unforced consent of the author. Though XReplace-32 has been diligently tested to provide absolutely correct string replacements, the author will still not be responsible for eventual errors caused directly or indirectly by XReplace-32 itself, any kind of misuse, bugs in processors (looks familiar) or any external influence by any kind of life or artificial intelligence form. The author of this software will not be held responsible for any kind of data, job or time loss, as well as personal dramas or collective chaos. All names of companies are registered trademarks of their respective owners. Any illegal sale or use of XReplace-32 will be severely punished and any violation of this agreement will be prosecuted to the maximum extent possible under the Swiss criminal law.

There are currently four places where you can always find the latest registered version of XReplace-32 and download it:

 my main site in Switzerland at Infomaniak Computer Megastore: http://www.infomaniak.ch/~dblock

University of Geneva little mirror: http://cuiwww.unige.ch/~doubrov5

Tulane University in New Orleans, USA: http://studentweb.tulane.edu/~gcyoung/dans/software.htm

XReplace-32 is (c) Daniel Doubrovkine (1996-1997)

anyone with questions or decent proposals should contact me at

11, chemin de la Clairière, 1207 Geneva, Switzerland

tel & fax: 41 (0) 22 735 69 47

Stolen Technologies Inc. - University of Geneva

MCMXCVI - All Rights Reserved

e-mail welcome: dblock@infomaniak.ch / doubrov5@cui.unige.ch

main Internet site at http://www.infomaniak.ch/~dblock

I really prefer e-mail, you can send all comments without any hesitation, and please don't call at 2AM...and before I forget, please, don't send cheese or chocolate, we've got plenty of it!


What's new in XReplace-32

- final version 1.0 has been released end 1995 and was on the Internet on June 1996

(version 1.1)

- completed help file with manual, disclaimer, etc.

- added an about box to XReplace-32

- corrected bug: when files have been selected and then removed, any new addition provoked a NO MORE FILES error

- added case sensitive replace

- update is immediate after file or directory add and mainly delete

- disabled drag while a drop operation is performed, a fatal error is thus no more generated

- corrected resize which has a fixed solid minimum now

- directory structure will be constructed only if files are added as dropping to the selection tree

- position and size are conserved as XReplace-32 is restarted

- added multiple file select

- corrected the wildcard select  in the File Select menu

- you may no longer drop to the replacements grid from the selected files tree

... there were other minor bugs corrected

(version 1.2)

- added native multithread drag and drop, even when moving the window, the file selection will continue

- added native multithread replacement, as for the drag and drop you may for example show the about box without interrupting the replacement operation

- corrected a minor bug in the replacement container loader

- when delete pressed as no files are selected, no more error occurs

- confirmations for exit and cancel are definitely nicer

- about box returns correct processor type for Intel Pentium under Windows 95

- about box always returns correct computer name under Windows NT and (almost) always under Winbug 95 (the GetComputerName function of the Microsoft 32s SDK seems to return random values)

(version 1.3)

- added prompted replace option

- added the options window

- added the overwrite backups option

(version 1.4/1.41/1.42)

- added clear replacements button and menu command

- prevented the form from being ejected from the screen

- the string replacements grid has radically changed for editing, there's also an editor menu that can be invoked with the right mouse button on edit

- you may enter multiple target lines for replacement, thus a single word, phrase or line may be replaced by multiple lines

- added a viewer option, you may view a file from the files list by double clicking on it; default viewer is the notepad

- corrected bug: huge string grids containing multiple lines are correctly saved, lines are no more truncated

- added an awesome init screen when you load XReplace

- no word wrapping occurs in the string replacement grid on editing multiple lines, thus no confusion is made between line breaks and longer strings, on editing the edit box is scrolled and the cursor positioned at the end of the text

- when the form is resized the cursor in the edit box (when editing) should never disappear out of bounds, the refresh may be dramatically slow on some machines while editing a huge text and resizing the form

- corrected add and remove line in the replacements grid, both may be done while editing, thus the add line command will update the currently edited cell and start editing the newly added line

(version 1.5)

- source multiline replace is possible, you can replace multiple lines by other multiple lines

- the clear replacements grid button is no more enabled while jobs are performed

- pressing the Go button while editing the grid will update the grid first

- drag & drop is possible on the string replacements grid's editing zone (dragging a container on the string grid loads it)

- interline replace: replace text between two text strings fully working

- no title option added: if enabled no init screen will be shown

- added backup extension option

- container files are compressed though size will only increase for small replacement grids

- added a possibility to resize the files list, directories list and tagged (selected) files list vertically with the string replacement grid by clicking dragging on the form between those controls as the appropriate cursor appears

- pressing a key on the string replacement grid will activate the edit box on the current cell if it's not yet active

- the editor is focused on the left topmost cell as you start XReplace-32

- fixed editor problems under Windows NT 3.5 and 3.51

- about box does not report a machine running at -1 Mhz any more under Windows NT 3.5 and 3.51

... there were other minor changes

(version 1.51/1.52/1.53/1.53a)

- fixed resize problems, when XReplace is resized to the edge of the screen this has no effect on the opposite corner of the form

- fixed resize problems, when maximizing XReplace, dragging down the grid separator and restoring the form again

- added glyphs to the files list box and to tagged files list

- added an option not to show glyphs in files list box and in the tagged files list

- added the ability to launch the corresponding application instead of the default viewer (double-clicking on a filename)

- added an option to use the default viewer only instead of the corresponding application

- corrected the short start-up path name

- corrected the double click on the file list box at root drives

- corrected root directories glyph list

- drag and drop is fully multithread, so you can load a string replacements grid during the drag and drop

- corrected load tagged files list, glyphs are visible

- with control pressed (at any time between drag start and drop) no subdirectories are dropped

- with shift pressed the file is attempted to be loaded instead of being dropped on the files select grid

- added highlight at replace prompt, you see better what is to be replaced

- (1.53a) multithread concurrence for HDD writing and reading caused replacements crash under Windows NT3.51 and Windows 95 with HX mainboards (there's no special code in all versions of NT for this kind of motherboards except in version 4.0 which was the only one that remained perfectly stable), multithread routine has been removed for replacements for security

(version 1.54/1.54a/1.55/1.56/1.57)

- the add a replacements line command has been deleted, lines are added automatically

- added keyboard moves in the replacements grid with the control key down and using arrows

- start-up directory is of long filename format, including upperlevel directories

- shortcut keys work in the prompt for replacements window (when prompt for replacements option enabled)

- fixed the remove item in the replacements menu and removed the add one

- lines are dynamically added for the replacements grid as changes are made (at each character and not at confirm only)

- corrected the no title option

- (1.54a/1.55) corrected bug with remove row as one single empty row is present in the grid and no rows are selected

- corrected binary files parser, binary files will no more be touched, a warning will be issued as a binary file is encountered (an option has been added to suppress this warning)

- (1.56) corrected minor bug with Show Tagged files' glyphs option

- added nicer prompts and comments at prompts, all messages have a more detailed comment

- corrected validity check at backup files extensions for * and ? characters

- help is callable from virtually everywhere in the application

- contents of help file has changed to 32bit version style, color is different, corresponding topics are called directly from XReplace

- removed the splash screen from XReplace since many where unable to find the no title option (the latest has also been removed)

- removed the annoying confirmation for exit, there is no warning of any kind unless a load, save, drag and drop or replace operation is running, escape still quits XReplace-32.

- added a new full state save feature which saves the replacements strings and the tagged files list at a click of a button

(version 1.58)

- corrected bug, deleting a file in the active directory provoked GPF as directory list is refreshed

- the options choice has radically changed, a separate window is now invoked for options modifications through the commands menu or through a new button

- added new option to allow startup in the same directory as the last session of XReplace-32

- added a No button to the backup overwrite prompt which allows not to perform replacements in current file only (I still force the backup file creation, since I think it's better than anybody loosing data, whatever my trust in XReplace is.)

- added a new option concerning hidden, read-only or system files

- hidden, read-only and system files will no more cause trouble in replacements, in case this new option is enabled, the user will be prompted for action, otherwise the attribute will be reset and won't provoke any faults any longer

- backup files are no longer made if no replacements were performed

(version 1.6 - the commercial release)

- XReplace-32 is no more freeware

- corrected bug: when editing a line from an empty line by a mouse click resulted to a wrong editor box position

- corrected bug: when moving in the replacements list from an empty line resulted in two lines skips

- added log options page which allows to manipulate XReplace-32 logs

- added "always create backups" option to the replacements options page

- added "create backups for modified files" option to the replacements options page

- added "whole words" option to the replacements options page

- added default options reload for current page and for all pages

- added numerous hotkeys like F3 to show the options page and F2 for Full Save

- added insert line function to the string replacements grid

- added missing split / join item to the Replacements menu

- corrected bug, when performing a drag and drop operation and making a new drag, access violation fatal error was raised (new drag and drop will be cancelled and XReplace-32 will return to an idle state)

- drag and drop to the tagged files list is much faster

- added new button and command to the File Select menu: WildCard Drop

- WildCard Select command does not add a new filter to the filter combo box any more, but still does drag and drop files as it should

- popup menu appears with the Tagged Files List, it contains new functions including Parse to File and View / Execute

- added registration buttons and commands to the interface and the help menu

- some buttons and menu commands for files select will be disabled when unnecessary (like delete an item when the tagged files list is empty)

- added new option: Permanent Response which allows to speed up drag and drop without taking advantage of the Windows 95 multithread _support_. It will make much less difference under Windows NT.

... there were other minor bugs corrected

(version 1.61, 1.62)

- corrected bug with log file generation, especially when invalid log file set at startup that made XReplace-32 impossible to start

-  * added unattended replace (automatic container loader / replacer) for frequently preformed monotone operations

(version 1.7)

- corrected panels resize

-  * added no errors option for unattended operations

-  * full macro support, check this page for details

-  * full shedule support, check this page for details

- rewritten the manual to give it a better structure, make it more readable and understandable

- added new log categories "Interface Jobs", "Detailed Macro Operations", "Detailed Drag & Drop", "Shedule & ActiveX", "Batch Mode Processing"

- added [no items tagged] text when no files selected

(version 1.71)

- * added single row options complete implementation, check this page for details

(version 1.72)

- * added redirected output, check this page for details

- * added wildcard_select macro command

- * corrected chd and cd macro commands to a more flexible syntax

(version 1.73 - build 11.04.97)

- * added a directory parser to the redirection directory prompt

- * added the always copy redirected option and the corresponding macro toggle command

- added remember directories option

- gave XReplace-32 the new flat speedbutton look

- XReplace-32 was compiled with the beta of Delphi 3.0 for the first time and faster operations were timed due to the compiler

- * added macro command: wildcard_drop that selects all filtered files in the current directory and it's subdirectories

- corrected multiline grid edit bug

(- * added alternative date and time selection style for the shedule from a calendar dropdown) was removed in 1.74

- corrected older versions container loads (redirections fixed)

- * added single click react to directory changes for the redirect selections

(version 1.74b - build 17.05.97)

- drag and drop directly supported from Windows File Manager (Explorer) for file tagging (drop on the Tagged Files List) and container loading (drop on the Replacements Grid)

- replacements for files over a network possible without drive letter assignment, redirections are not directly supported over a network, you can still specify a full networked path redirection manually

- backup method was modified, if  overwrite backups option is not enabled, XReplace-32 will keep up to 99 backup files (*.XRP00 to *.XRP99 for drives supporting long file names and *~00.XRP to *~99.XRP for networked drives without LFN support)

- a status window with a progress bar appears for drag and drop, container loading and macro loading operations taking over 3 seconds to be executed

- added macro example page to help file

(build 17.05.97)

- changed replacements algorithm - divided exponential memory usage by changing the recursive version to an iterative faster alternative, resulting in 100% successful operations even on very huge files (it may still take a lot of time to perform replacements on very large files, ex: XReplace-32takes 15 minutes for a 2.5 Mb text file with 500'000 replacements made)

- extended the whole words option: for example a word between brackets will still be considered as a whole word

(version 1.75 - build 26.05.97)

- * added tab dilimited paste and copy commands

- * added anchor drag and drop full implementation

- corrected various minor grid editing bugs

- added append at grid load possibility

- much faster grid loading

- corrected maximized window setting at XReplace-32 start (saved from previous session)

- added bound interline replacements (replaces bounds of an interline selection), full implementation

- corrected tagged files list load (dragged with shift pressed file)

- holding shift when pressing save buttons (replacements grid, tagged files list, full state containers) will save without prompt and with current name (if available)

(version 1.76 - build 22.08.97)

- corrected single row options - the icons are now visible again

- pasting to the replacements grid does not invert the original order of rows

- pasting and copying is totally correct for multiline replacement grids (tested with Microsoft Excel)

- added a small text area that shows the number of occurences found and strings replaced after each operation, so text does not disappear like in the status bar

- corrected prompt on replace option, saved on termination

- file filters are now saved on termination

- corrected bug at prompted replace (wrong result when answering no)

- shedule ActiveXR module is minimized as a trayicon by default

- corrected XReplace-32 launch on a network path from a remote computer

* * *


frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions (F.A.Q)

Since you have landed on this page, it means you could not find an answer in this help file. This over again. What do you want to do? If your question is about replacements, read the Replacements Grid section once again. If it is about tagging files, check the Tagged Files List section. If you still haven't found an answer, feel free to e-mail the author at dblock@infomaniak.ch.

Question: 	What could I use XReplace for?

Answer:	XReplace-32 is perfect when you need to change a directory of an application using .INI files with a huge number of directory references. In one go you'll be able to change all of them. The Windows version of XReplace was made for a company that was changing the directory structure of HTML documents and it was impossible to change the 2000 references by hand. XReplace-32 is also very handy for those who perform monotone tasks at an everyday basis, shedule operations coupled with macro support give XReplace-32 unique possibilities.

Question:	Is it possible to replace multiple lines in a document?

Answer:	Yes it is! Simply fill the Replacement Grid with multiple lines! Besides there's an amazing interline replacements feature you should check, which works for multiple lines also.

Question:	Is it possible to replace carriage returns?

Answer:	Yes it is, simply type a return in the Replacements Grid for source string. A full carriage return (#13#10) will thus be replaced by the text you want.

Question:	Will XReplace-32 harm binary files by parsing them?

Answer:	This was a bug till version 1.55, XReplace-32 will no more touch binary files. A message will appear if wanted (see the options for more details) warning that binary files were selected and that XReplace-32 will not perform any operations on such files. Future versions of XReplace-32 may support binary files replacements.

Question:	Where may I download the latest version of XReplace?

Answer: 	There are currently four places where you can always find the latest version of XReplace-32, those are mirrors updated right after the release of a new version of XReplace-32. Check this page for details.

Question:	I'd like to remove useless tags from HTML pages with their contents. How do I do that?

Answer:	It's very easy with the interline replacements. Simply do not enter anything for the target replacement. Also, to clean up the document from gaps and multiple enters, try replacing a double enter with a single one.

Question:	I have lot's of external data that I would like to use as replacement strings. Can I simply import this as an XReplace-32 container?

Answer:	Yes you can.

You can copy and paste columns from a spreadsheet software. or you can import old style DOS containers that have the following format:

source1¦target1

source2¦target2

etc...


License Agreement

1. Distribution

This shareware software may be freely distributed, provided that such distribution includes only the original archive supplied by Stolen Technologies Inc. (newly EdelWeiss).  You may not alter, delete or add any files in the distribution archive.

2. License

By receiving and/or using S.T.I. software, you accept the following Evaluation and Registered User Agreement.  This agreement is a binding legal agreement between S.T.I. and the purchasers, users or evaluators of  S.T.I. software and products.  If you do not intend to honor this agreement, remove all installed  S.T.I. software from your computer now.

3. Evaluation (Unregistered) and Registered User Agreement

You may evaluate the Shareware program for maximum of fifteen calendar days, after which you must register the program with S.T.I. or remove the software from your computer.

You may allow other users to evaluate copies of the unregistered Shareware. All evaluation users are subject to the terms of this agreement.

The evaluator/user/buyer/owner is not allowed to attempt to reverse engineer, disassemble or decompile S.T.I.  software and products.

The evaluator/user/buyer/owner of S.T.I. software will indemnify, hold harmless, and defend S.T.I. against lawsuits, claims, costs associated with defense or accusations that result from the use of S.T.I. software.

S.T.I. is not responsible for any damages whatsoever, including loss of information, interruption of business, personal injury and/or any damage or consequential damage without limitation, incurred before, during or after the use of our products.  Our entire liability, without exception, is limited to the customers' reimbursement of the purchase price of the software (maximum being the suggested retail price as listed by S.T.I.) in exchange for the return of the product, all copies, registration papers and manuals, and all materials that constitute a transfer of ownership from the customer back to S.T.I..

Each registered copy of the S.T.I. software may be used in only one single location by one user.  Use of the software means that you have loaded the program and run it or have installed the program onto a computer.  If you install the software onto a multi-user platform or network, each and every individual user of the software must be registered separately.

Registration does apply to a single person or a single company only. It may not be transferred to a different name, unless the company name has changed.


register XReplace-32
Register!

How can you register?

S.T.I. uses Kagi services for software registration which is very convenient for both the group and the registering users. The price for a single user licence for XReplace-32 is just 25.- US$. Simply launch the Register program from the "Help & Register" menu and follow instructions on the screen. Kagi accepts cash, checks, money orders, VISA, MasterCard, American Express and First Virtual Payements. It can also issue invoices. Detailed help is available from the registration program.

If you live in Switzerland or prefer to make a direct bank transfer, send a check or the cash amount to the author, please send it to:

Daniel Doubrovkine

11, chemin de la Clairière,

1207 Geneva, Switzerland

tel & fax: 41 (0) 22 735 69 47

e-mail: dblock@infomaniak.ch

account No. with the Swiss Bank Corporation: C2-112.610

What is registration and why should you register?

For a year, XReplace-32 was freeware. This means you could use XReplace-32 without any considerations, it was just given away. As XReplace-32 has become a huge program and one of the best on the market today, taking a lot of time and work, XReplace-32 has become Shareware. This is a general new policy for XReplace-32 and is valable for ALL versions of XReplace, so using an older version of XReplace-32 does not give you the right to use it for free. There are major differences between the registered and the unregistered versions of XReplace-32. They include macro and shedule support as well as many other features.This manual contains all information and users guide for those, so feel free to check before buying.

Shareware means that we have made the software available to you for free evaluation.  You are entitled to evaluate the software for up to 15 days without obligation to pay.  After 15 days, if you decide to keep the software, you must register your copy with us for a small fee of 25.- US$ for a single licence. Check  for payement details.

Stolen Technologies Inc. (newly EdelWeiss) policy is very different from the greedy companies who think that the short term benefits are the aim to achieve. We are a group of University of Geneva and Lausanne's Institute of Technology students that write top quality software and also bring all users top quality free or shareware products. We have learned a lot writing programms for you, we trust you and feel that you, the end-user must first get responsible with the shareware pricipe, so don't hesitate to show us that you like what we are doing for you and encourage us to continue. You can do this by simply registering XReplace-32! The price you pay is infinitely small in comparison of the support you bring to those who feel that a small enthousiast group can accomplish great things.

The announcements list for XReplace-32 is open to ALL users, regardless that they have or have not registered. Neithertheless, there will be cheaper updates, special prices and particular conditions for XReplace-32 and other Stolen Technologies Inc. software, including commercial programms that will be released in the future for users who have registered earlier.

XReplace-32 has received a great response from the users on the Internet and S.T.I. is very happy with the support it has encoutered! We are open to all suggestions, comments and critics. We thank you for your attention, and don't forget to register!

note: Register for Windows program is (c) Grzegorz (Greg) Kochaniak


macros - examples
Macro Examples

The most common task of XReplace-32 macro support is performing replacements on a variable set of files, still using a fixed replacements container. Suppose I have a website with three homepage categories: "non profit organizations", "private members" and "commercial", all in three directories:

h:\www\users\non_profit

h:\www\users\private

h:\www\users\commercial

aim: 	in all .htm files in those three directories change the server name (from "http://www.bill.com" to "http://www.gates.net")

first, we'll create a container file for necessary replacement: first_task.rpl (check this page for how to do that) which will contain one and only replacements line:

http://www.bill.com -> http://www.gates.net

second, we'll create a new macro ("Macro" -> "New") the macro will look like this: ("#" means a comment, you can effectively use this sign in the macros)

# change XReplace-32 directory to h:\www\users

cd h:\www\users

# set the filter to *.htm for files' tagging

filter_set *.htm

# make sure the tagged files list is empty

removeall

# drag and drop files

dirdragdrop

# load the "first_task.rpl" container from the c:\xreplace directory

grid_load c:\xreplace\first_task.rpl

# make sure the whole words only option is off

whole_words false

# make sure the case sensitive option is off

case_sensitive false

# launch the replacements operation

go

we'll save the macro ("Macro" -> "Save") and it's ready to be used. With such a macro, all .htm files uploaded to the site will be parsed and the links will be adjusted.

XReplace-32 can do same tasks in multiple ways; for example the "filter_set *.htm" and the "dirdragdrop" lines could be replaced by a single "wildcard_drop *.htm" command. Don't forget to check the macro shedule feature which will simplify your work greatly.