HAM Radio 1997/HAM Radio 1997.iso/vcls/multlang.000/readme.txt

Text File | 1996-04-08 | 22KB | 415 lines

TMULTLANG PACKAGE FOR DELPHI v1.14
(C) 1995 Patrik Wang
                                 14 December 1995

INDEX
 1  Description
    1.1  Features
 2  Installation
    2.1  Files
    2.2  Dependencis
    2.3  Un-Installing
 3  Shareware
 4  Disclaimer
 5  Register
    5.1  Ordering
 6  History
 7  Author / Support


1   DESCRIPTION
Forget Windows resource files (.RES, .RC ...) this component will make you
internationalized without writing any additional code. Just drop it on your
form and re-compile, finished. This component will translate properties in
Delphi, at both design and runtime. Targeting multi language support, but it
can be used for many other things. Support for switching language at run-time
independant of the running Windows version. This component will alter almost
all properties that the object inspector can edit. You can choose if you want
your languages to be saved in the form or a file. You can use the same file
for all your form languages within the same application. It works in a
multiuser environment and it is aware of other forms. You can share languages
between different forms and manipulate those even at runtime.
Come on and jump on the train to Rapid Application Development, it's lightening
fast. Why use expensive tools to maintain different languages in C++ when you
have Delphi with this package.

The MultLang package includes 12 components, the MExtras package described
below and also the TComponentCollector(Full source) component. With this
package you will be able to to make professional multi lingual applications.

The MExtras package have 9 components that supports translation of all 16-bit
common dialogs and one component for translating Message Boxes and Buttons.
More information can be found in the MEXTRAS.TXT file.

The ComponentCollector component hides all your Non-Visual components so they
wont clutter your form. It is very useful when you use databases with many
queries on the form. More information is provided in the COMPCOLL.TXT file.


1.1 FEATURES
* Specialized for multi language support in Delphi.
* Double byte languages support
* Switching language at run-time independant of the running Windows version
* Supports translation of Win 3.1 objects even when developing on Win 95
* Get multi lingual by just drop this VCL on a form (No additional coding)
* Available as 16 and 32 bit with the fully source code in pure Delphi Pascal
* Change text of almost all Component and Control properties
* Support for translation of TStrings items and TFont objects
* Multi-user shared resource file(s) (when an external file is used)
* 16-bit Common dialogs support (On the fly, without any DLL or RES files)
* Delphi standard Message dialogs support (ShowMessage, MessageDlg, Input ...)
* Write you own run-time property editor via INI files
* Date, Time, Currency and Number format translations
* Switch languages from selectable controls (Menus, DropDown, RadioGroup etc)
* Save language translation in forms (design time) or external files
* Even translates it self (Localized language names)
* Aware of other forms within the same application
* Objects and Properties browsable, just point and click
* Share languages/properties/values between several forms
* One run- and design-time editable resource file for one or more forms
* Extensive help integrated with Delphi
* Safe synconisation when changing names, removing or inserting components.
* Associate icons (stretchable) to each configuration.
* An easy property editor which is integrated in the Delphi environment.
* Filter to restrict language translations (usable in a multi user environm.)
* Supports translation of any language in Win 3.1, 95 and NT
* Right-To-Left script translations
* Add on's available for many different languages
***** MANY MORE FEATURES INCLUDED, PLEASE CHECK IT OUT YOURSELF ******


2   INSTALLATION
If you already have installed a previous version you will have to uninstall
that one first. Please advice the old readme.txt file in the previous version.
This installation installs both the TComponentCollector and the MExtras
package, so if you already have one of them installed, please remove that
component in the 'Install Components dialog' prior to this installation.

STEP 1. First unpack MULTLANG.ZIP in an own directory (you have probably
already done that by reading this), this archive have subdirectories included.

STEP 2. Move all *.HLP files to any directory in your search path, preferable
the DELPHI\BIN directory where other Delphi helpfiles resides.

STEP 3. Then install the MULTREG.PAS file via the 'Install Component' menu
option in Delphi. If any problems occurs, you can get your old library back
from the backup file *.BAK that Delphi automatically makes. (for more
instructions see page 69 in the Users Guide). Please note that the Component
path in this dialog is restricted to 255 characters, this component must be in
that path or the global Windows path.

STEP 4. Install the MULTLANG.KWF and MEXTRAS.KWF files with the Helpfile
installer program (HELPINST.EXE) supplied by Delphi. This enables you to press
F1 in the Object Inspector to invoke help on that property. (Not necessary if
you just want to have a quick look at the component).

!!!!! NOTE !!!!!!
We recommend to increase the stack size from the standard 16384 bytes to at
least 32768 in your large projects.
If you plan to support editing of languages at run-time (Calling with the
MultLang1.Edit(nil);) you must increase the stack size!
However, we have concentrated on making the component as little memory
consuming as possible, but we cannot change the Delphi Pascal object structures
with the standard units that declares lot of global variables. The stacksize
can be changed in the 'Options-Project' menu under the tab 'Linker' and also
by using compiler directive {$M 32786 8192} in your source. It is not possible
to adjust stack sizes in components, that's why we have to ask you to do it

Thats it !!!!

Look at the Multi Lingual component palette in Delphi. Why not start with the
Step-By-Step right away, the quick one takes only 5 min. Check the helpfile for
more details by a right click on the TMultLang component at design time.

For implementation details please advice the included technical papers named
TECH*.TXT. They descibe important implementation methods and is highly
recommended to read.

Also please look at the sample project in the example subdirectory for advice
and to look at source examples.


2.1 FILES
These files is included in the TMultLang package.
ADDPROP.DCU   Compiled unit of the Add properties dialog.
ADDPROP.DFM   Add properties dialog.
COMPCOLL.DCR  Design time bitmaps for the TComponentCollecter
COMPCOLL.DCU  TComponentCollector component
COMPCOLL.TXT  Text file for the TComponentCollector
COPYFROM.DCU  Compiled unit of the Copy From dialog.
COPYFROM.DFM  Copy From dialog.
LANGEDIT.DCU  Compiled unit of the Language Property Editor dialog.
LANGEDIT.DFM  Language Property Editor dialog.
MBUTTONS.DCU  Multi language support component for Delphi standard buttons.
MCOMBBOX.DCU  DropDown component that supports Icons
MDIALOGS.DCU  The common dialogs multi language support.
MEXTRAS.DCR   Design-time bitmaps for the component palette (see MEXTRAS.TXT)
MEXTRAS.HLP   The MExtras package helpfile.
MEXTRAS.KWF   The MExtras keyword index for Delphi Help system.
MEXTRAS.PAS   MExtras installation file (Not needed, see MEXTRAS.TXT)
MEXTRAS.TXT   The MExtras instructions/registrations text file.
MULABOUT.DCU  Compiled unit for the About dialog.
MULABOUT.DFM  About dialog.
MULTLANG.DCU  Compiled unit for the TMultLang component (TMultLang component).
MULTLANG.HLP  TMultLang helpfile.
MULTLANG.KWF  TMultlang keyword index for Delphi Help system.
MULTREG.DCR   Design-time bitmaps for the component palette.
MULTREG.PAS   The component palette installation file.
README.TXT    Instructions/registrations text file (This file).
REGFORM.DCU   Compiled unit of the key registration form.
REGFORM.DFM   Key registration form.
TECH*.TXT     Technical papers (Based on FAQ)
[EXAMPLE]     Example directory, contains a MDI example project


2.2 DEPENDENCIES
The units below must be available in the library search path when rebuilding
the library. All used units are standard and is included in the Delphi package.
I have tried to keep the dependent units to a minimum so that the overall size
of your EXE will not be too big. You will probably need almost all units in
your own project so it does not matter that it is used by this component.
SysUtils, WinTypes, WinProcs, Messages, Classes, Graphics, Controls, Forms,
Dialogs, StdCtrls, Menus, FileCtrl, DsgnIntf, TypInfo, OutLine, Tabs, ShellAPI,
LibConst, LibHelp, ClipBrd, ExtCtrls, Buttons, Grids, TabNotBk, Mask, INIFiles;
The units not included in the Delphi package is:
AddProp, CopyFrom, LangEdit, MulAbout, RegForm;
You dont need to include any of these in the USES clause, the component is
already compiled. If you start with an empty project this component will add
about 200K because of the dependencies, however the larger your project grows
the less the component adds. If you have an EXE file for about 400K, by adding
this component it may only grow to 515K because of the re-use of classes in
Object pascal.

2.3 UN-INSTALL
STEP 1. First remove the component from the component palette in Delphi via
the 'Install Component' menu options in Delphi.

STEP 2. Re-generate the keyword index for helpfiles in the Helpfile installer
program (HELPINST.EXE) without the MULTLANG.KWF and MEXTRAS.KWF files.

STEP 3. Just delete all files in the TMultLang package in the directory you
choosed when it was installed. Dont forget to delete the helpfiles
(MULTLANG.HLP and MEXTRAS.HLP) also, which is in the DELPHI\BIN directory if
you installed it according to the installation instructions.


3   SHAREWARE
This version of TMultLang is released as shareware and means in this case that
you are allowed a trial period for testing. The testing period expires after
30 days from the installation time.
After that period you have to remove it and must not use it
anymore, or you can register it for continuing use. You are not allowed to
make a new trial period by reinstalling the component again, unless it is a
later version.
I do not take any responsibility of misuse or any corrupt files caused by this
component and especially not your form files (*.DFM). It is your responsibility
to always keep a backup copy of necessary files. For more info see page 139
'Creating a backup of an entire project' in the Delphi User's Guide.
You are not allowed to modify any files associated with this component.
In the Shareware version, you are allowed to distribute this component with
all its files anytime. There is no limited functions in the Shareware version.
This version is released based on trust, so I expect you to follow the rules.
By using this component you accept the terms stated in this text file and the
text shown in the 'About' dialog.


4   DISCLAIMER
Users of TMultLang package must accept this disclaimer of warranty:
"The TMultLang package is supplied as is.  The author disclaims all
warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation,
the warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any purpose.
The author assumes no liability for damages, direct or conse-
quential, which may result from the use of the TMultLang package."
Any reproduction of material in this package is copyrighted by law.
The author reserves the right to change any text in this file, the
helpfile and in the about dialog at anytime.


5   REGISTER
All registered users will get free lifetime support. Support will be
given on the address below. However, support will also be given to unregistered
users within the trial period of the Shareware version.
If you have access to Internet, please take a look at URL site
http://www.computer-shopper.com/magazine/delphi.htm for late braking news and
updates for the Multi Language Component.

You will be able to upgrade to later versions and get free patches when
available. You will also get rid of all the annoying messages.
The registration methods below entitles you to develop and distribute royalty
free programs which contains this component package.

Each registration allows one person to use the component at a time.
Site registrations with more than 1 user are available with discounts. Please
send us E-mail requesting a site licensing quote.

5.1 ORDERING
When you order a product you will be E-Mailed a registration Key with
instructions within 24 hours worldwide.

For your convenience we have contracted NorthStar Solutions in USA to process
any orders that you wish to place with your valid Visa or MasterCard.
They may be contacted FOR ORDERS ONLY via any of the following methods:

Voice:   1-800-699-6395 (10:00am - 10:00pm Eastern Standard Time US Only)
         1-803-699-6395 (10:00am - 10:00pm Eastern Standard Time)

Fax:     [phone] (Available 24 hours. International)

E-Mail:  America Online: STARMAIL
         CompuServe:     71561,2751
         Internet:       [e-mail]

Regardless of how you register, please have the following information ready:
* The name of the package listed below you are registering
* Where the latest version should be mailed (E-Mail or Regular Post)
* Your VISA or MasterCard # and its expiration date

PLEASE NOTE: If you have any questions please send them to the Author on the
address given below. NorthStar Solutions can only receive orders.

If you have a CompuServe account you can also register a package On-Line, but
we prefer receiving orders via NorthStar Solutions:
The TComponentCollector can only be registered via Compuserve for US$ 19.
* Go to the SWREG forum and select Register Shareware.
  Search for TMultLang for the TMultLang package, or for MExtras for the
  TMExtras package, or for Collector for the TComponentCollector component,
  then select the version you would like to order.

The price table below is valid til 1996-04-31.
During 14 - 31 of December 1995 we offer the Regular TMultLang package and the
Source with 15% discount (Christmas Offer) on prices listed below.

 NAME (Delphi Component packages)                          PRICE
 MExtras package                                           US$ 29
 Regular MultLang package 1.1x *                           US$ 175
 Source MultLang package 1.1x *, **                        US$ 500

 UPGRADES (Must include current key)
 Regular MultLang package 1.1x -> 1.1x source. *, **       US$ 374
 Regular MultLang package 1.1x -> 32 bit version ***       US$ 75

*   All users that register before the release of the 32 bit MultLang component
    will get the 32-bit version for free when available (see below for more
    info). Also includes the MExtras package and the Collector component.
**  The source will include both 16 and 32 bit version when released.
*** Not available yet.

We reserve the rights for price changes.


6   32-BIT VERSION
The 32-bit component will be available short after the release of Delphi 32 bit
version. The 32 bit version will be fully compatible with 1.xx 16 bit versions
of the multi language component. This means you can use the 16-bit component
and later switch to the 32 bit component and then recompile, without any
additional coding and re-translation.

6.1 HISTORY
1.00 Initial release.
1.01 Updated instructions, was never really released to the public.
1.10 Added new features and corrected two bugs.
     * A new property AdoptOn
     * The help system is totaly revised
     * Two step by step tutorials
     * Added Key words for Delphi
     * Grid style of values in the Property Editor
     * Copy property values from other forms.
     * File system totally revised (Also fixed the bug with NTFS partitions)
     * Less resource intence by reuse of string values
     * Look up table for soundex search of other forms values
     * Fixed a bug when editing Font names in the Property Editor
     * New Installation and un-install instructions in Help file
     * Many new topics added to help file
     * Expand All buttons added
     * Added a new property (FLookupText) for remembering the last state
     * Added a new property (FLastValue) for remembering the last sel. language
     * Removed the MASTAPP example which did not really show how it works
     * Removed the Simple and Advanced feature in the Property editor
     * Changed the display from date to Nr of days left in About (Shareware)
     * New registration rules and guidelines
     * It is now possible to have many TMultLang components on the same form
1.11 Bug fixes and new features
     * Setting caFree on child windows did not have any effect due to a bug in
       the subclassing of the window. Removed the unneccesary subclassing.
     * Translate method did not effect other forms, added TranslateApp variable
     * Deleting translated components at design-time could sometime give a GPF
     * The 'Copy From' selected language did not work as it should
     * Added the GetTranslation method
     * Helpfile updates
     * Added support for self translations, Localized language names
     * Updated prices, README.TXT and ORDER.EXE
1.12 Many new features and bug fixes
     * Calling Edit method several times could sometime cause a GPF
     * When translating fails it could give a GPF when TranslateApp was true
     * Bug in ORDER.EXE file occuring on Windows 3.1 'File not found'
     * External file handling routine bug when less memory available
     * Setting LanguageFile property to a language file at run-time caused GPF
     * Added support for System menu translation
     * All 16-bit Common dialog support via MDialogs.DCU component
     * Added support for translation of Number, Date, Time and Currency format
     * Localized Design-time interface, add your favorite language CTRL-ALT-E
     * Standard Message dialog buttons support via MButtons.DCU component
     * Property Recovery, put object back on form to get back translations
     * Import/Export of textfiles. Creates/Edits values. INI-file format
     * Userdefined strings, GetString and SetString methods
     * Copy from made unneccesary duplicates of properties when TStrings
     * Several updates for the main component regarding memory allocation
     * Helpfile updates
1.13 New features and Bug fixes
     * Double click on properties to transfer them over in the 'Browse' dialog
     * Fixed 'Invalid gridindex value' in the langauge editor dialog
     * MButtons sometimes gives a GPF in the initialize process, it is fixed
     * The brown color around the glyphs of buttons is corrected
     * Expand/Collapse now keeps the outlines syncronised in 'Browse' dialog
     * NEW, have substrings in all strings Ex. 'I like my %ComputerName%'
     * MButtons gave a GPF when closing the dialog if Translate=True
     * Selectable helpfile when editing other languages
     * Corrected a problem: exchanging items in the Outlines in 'Browse'
     * Added support for Dutch and Indonesian languages
     * Dbl_Click in the grid values did not save the values, 'Language Editor'
     * Resized some controls for longer language translations in it self
     * Helpfile updates MULTLANG.HLP and MEXTRAS.HLP (MEXTRAS.HLP included)
     * Updates of problems when using external file and it had the ext. 'lan'
1.131 Fixes
     * Debugging message '.LAN' removed, accidently included in the Trial pkg
     * About box version incorrect
     * MButtons component could loose translated strings sometimes
1.14 General updates
     * Setting Font property of MDialogs could give GPF, bad OOP. Now corrected
     * Protected Invalid VBX Exception values
     * TMultLang properties could display duplicates in the Browse dialog
     * Forms did not sometime syncronize at design time when adding languages
     * Added support for Switch-To (TaskList) and Next Window in System Menus
     * Removed a bad BUG in the MDialogs components, when dropped on forms
     * Double Click in the Browse dialog did not work on the last property
     * New languages added
     * Right-To-Left script editing (Hebrew etc) in the Language Editor
     * MButtons bug, did not work with MDIChild windows, Corrected
     * Changing language via the tabs component if Adopted now works well
     * MFontDialog Font property now returns the selected Font
     * Updates to helpfiles and its keyword files
     * Included TComponentCollector (Hides non-visual components)
     * Now includes a sample project, many advanced features with source


7   AUTHOR
If you find any bug, please contact me and I will try to resolve it ASAP.
If you have any suggestions or if you think I've missed something, I will
happily implement that as an additional feature in future versions.

I hope you will find the packages useful and easy to use. I am releasing it
based on trust (Shareware) and even though you dont find it useful I would
like to have your comments, bad or good. It is difficult to develop components
without any suggestions, directions and the most important, knowing what people
really need.

Author:
    Patrik Wang
    1/8 Tusculum St.
    Potts Point, N.S.W. 2011, Sydney
    Australia

    E-Mail: [e-mail]
    Fax: [phone]