OS/2 Spezial/SPEZIAL2_97.zip/SPEZIAL2_97.iso/ANWEND/WPS/DRAWCAT1/drawcat.hlp

OS/2 Help File | 1997-06-21 | 517KB | 1,391 lines

ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1. Help ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Help provides five functions:

o Using Help,
o Help Keys,
o Help Contents,
o Help Index and
o Product Information.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1.1. Using Help ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Help/Using Help explains how to use the help information
provided by DRAWCAT.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1.2. Keys ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To call the menu options from the keyboard press the ALT key then type the
underlined letter shown in the menu bar. The submenu will drop down. Then type
the underlined letter shown in the submenu. You can also move through the menus
or submenus with ARROW keys. To undo the selection of menus use the ESC key.

Some menu options have Shortcuts. The shortcuts are displayed in the menu bar.

To get the help information for specific menu option select this menu option
with the mouse or the keyboard and press the F1 key. To get information about a
specific submenu option drop down the submenu by selecting the corresponding
menu option, select the submenu option with the ARROW keys (not with the mouse
button, that would cause the submenu option to execute) and press the F1 key.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1.2.1. Shortcuts ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Some menu options have shortcuts. To call these menu options from the keyboard
press the Control key and type the letter show in quotes. It does not matter if
you type a upper or lower case letter.

o   "n" File/New,
o   "o" File/Open,
o   "s" File/Save,
o   "w" File/Library,
o   "p" File/Print,
o   "g" Edit/Group,
o   "u" Edit/Ungroup,
o   "l" Edit/Lock,
o   "k" Edit/Unlock,
o   "+" Edit/Select All,
o   "-" Edit/Deselect All,
o   "b" Edit/Send to Background,
o   "f" Edit/Send to Foreground,
o   "." View/One Third Size,
o   "," View/Two Third Size,
o   "1" View/Normal Size,
o   "2" View/Double Size,
o   "4" View/Quad Size,
o   "z" Options/Size,
o   "x" Options/Snap to Grid,
o   "v" Options/Special Options,
o   "q" Options/Preferences,
o   "i" Attributes/Line Attributes,
o   "a" Attributes/Area Attributes,
o   "t" Attributes/Text Attributes,
o   "h" Attributes/Font Selection,
o   "r" Attributes/Pattern Attributes,
o   "DELETE" Edit/Cut,
o   "INSERT" Edit/Copy.
Press the Shift key and "INSERT" Edit/Paste.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1.3. Index ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This menu option shows you the Help Index.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1.4. Contents ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This menu option shows you the contents of Help.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1.5. About ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Help/Product Information shows you version number of DRAWCAT.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2. File Menu ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option File provides nine functions:

o New File,
o Open File,
o Save File,
o Save File as,
o Import.
o Export,
o Open Library,
o Print,
o Exit.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.1. New File ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Calling the menu option File/File New clears the screen and all object data
will be erased. You will be asked for confirmation before the function is
executed.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.2. Open File ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can open a file with data saved in the DRAWCAT format (usually having the
extension .jgr). All data of your actual drawing will be erased and contents of
the file will be displayed. You will be asked for confirmation before the
function is executed.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3. Save File ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

If a filename is already defined (occurs in titel of the window) use the menu
option File/File Save to saved your data. Else or if want to save your data in
a new file use the menu option File/File Save as.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.4. Save File as ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Use the menu option File/file Save as to save your data if have not yet defined
a filename or if you want to save the data in a new file. The File Select
Dialog is called where you can specify the name and the path of the file.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5. Import ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Use the menu option File/Import to import graphics created with other programs.
Currently you can import only bitmap files. The imported bitmap is handled as a
special objects and can placed everywhere on the page and there are also some
functions to manipulate Bitmap objects. After invoking the menu option
File/Import the Import Dialog is displayed. After you have selected the format
of the file to import (currently only Bitmap files are selectable) and have
closed the dialog with OK the File Select Dialog is displayed and you can
select the filename and path of the file to import.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.1. Export/Import Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

 You can export data as OS/2 Metafile or as Bitmap files. It is recommended to
export data as OS/2 Metafile. However, some programs I know exhibit some
shortcommings working with Metafiles. Bitmap files will use a large amount of
disk space, especially if you choose a high number of dots per inch. To export
data choose either OS/2 Metafile [R1] or Bitmap [R3]. If you choose the bitmap
format additionally set the value for dat per inch [E1]. For screen resolution
try 76 dots per inch.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.6. Library ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Libraries contain complex objects you can use for your drawing. But you also
can objects you created and you use often store in a library. The menu option
File/Library will display the Library Selection Dialog After you have selected
a library this library will open and you can copy objects from the library to
the currently active page or copy a grouped object into a free field of the
library.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.6.1. Library Selection Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To select a library click on the scroll button of the list box [L1]. The list
box will show all available libraries. Select one of them and click on OK. The
Library Window will be displayed and you can copy an object to the screen.

The last entry of the list box is named New Library. Select this entry if want
to create a new (empty) library. Additionally you must type a unique name of
the new library into the entry field [E1] and click on the push button Change
Name [P3].

The default library is named "stdlib.jlb". You can load an other library file
by pushing the button Load other library file. The File Selection Dialog will
pop up and you can select the filename and the path of the library. If you want
to create a new library file simply specify a filename that does not yet
exists.

You can delete the currently selected library by clicking push button [P2].
Before executing this function the application will ask for conformation.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.6.2. Library Object Window ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To copy an object from the library to the currently active page select one
object by clicking on an object in the value set [S1]. The selected object will
appear in the lower left edge of the page. Usually this object must be moved to
an appropriate place and needs to sized.

You also can copy a complex object you created on the screen to the library.
There must be at least one field empty in the current displayed library.
Objects to copy must be selected then use the menu option Edit/Group and click
on the push button Add selected object to library [P3]. It is recommended to
set the special options:

o allow to alter line width,
o size X and Y axis independently,
o allow to alter character height and
o allow to alter character width.
using the Special Options Dialog

To delete a selected library object push button Delete object [P2].

To close the library click on the push button Close. If you have made some
changes the library file will be automatically saved.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.7. Export ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Use the menu option File/Import to exchange data created with DRAWCAT with
other programs. Currently you can export data as OS/2 metafiles and as bitmap
files. After invoking the menu option File/Import the Export Dialog is
displayed. After you have selected the format of the file to export and have
closed the dialog with OK the File Select Dialog is displayed and you can
specify the filename and path of the export file.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.8. Print ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Use the menu option File/Print to make a hardcopy of your drawing. The Printer
Select Dialog will open. You can select a printer driver or accept the default
driver and specify if the picture shall be fit to the page or rotated.

The maximal printing area is 3.26 m * 3.26 m (128 inch * 128 inch).


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.8.1. Print Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Print Dialog allows you to select a printer. Scroll the list of available
printers [L1] and select one of them. You can also specify size of the print in
entry field [E1] The standard value is 100 %. Number greater than 100 % will
cause an magnification of the output and values smaller than 100 % and reduced
output. The number of copies can be specified in entry field [E2]. Additionally
there are two three state buttons Scale to Fit the Page and Rotate Picture. If
the Scale to Fit the Page button is unchecked the size of the picture is never
and if the button is checked the size is always expanded that that whole
printer page is filled. If the button is in its third state (darc grey square)
the application calculates if scaling necessary and if it is ask you for
confirmation. Remember not the of actual drawings is decisive for scaling but
size of the page you have defined for creating the picture. E. g. if you had
defined a size of DIN A5 for your drawing and the printer has currently sheets
with DIN A4 format you should allow scaling. Scaling has no effect if the
defined page size and the size of the printer sheets are equal even if you used
only a small part of page size for drawing. You can rotate your picture if you
defined for drawing a landscape format and the printer takes only portrait
format. If the Rotate Picture button is unchecked the picture is never and if
the button is checked the picture is always rotated. If the button is in its
third state (darc grey square) the application calculates if rotation necessary
and if it is ask you for confirmation.

Clicking on the push button Options will open the Printer Options Dialog
provided by the printer driver program where you can define printers specific
parameters.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.9. Exit Program ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Exit the application with the menu option File/Exit. If your data have been
changed since the last saving you will be asked for confirmation.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3. Edit Menu ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Edit provides eleven functions:

o Cut objects,
o Copy objects,
o Paste objects,
o Group objects,
o Ungroup objects.
o Lock objects,
o Unlock all objects,
o Select all objects,
o Deselect all objects,
o Send to Background,
o Send to Foreground.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.1. Cut Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using the menu option Edit/Cut you can remove a selected object (or several
selected objects) from the screen Factually the object is copied into the
clipboard. This function is equivalent to pushing the trash button in the tool
bar. The last object put on the clipboard can can be restored using the PASTE
tool in the toolbar or using the menu Edit/Paste.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.2. Copy Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using the menu option Edit/Copy you can copy a selected object (or several
selected objects) into the clipboard. The last object put on the clipboard can
can be restored using the PASTE tool in the tool bar or using the menu
Edit/Paste.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.3. Paste Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

If you previously put an object on the clipboard either using the menu options
Edit/Cut or Edit/Copy or using the trash can tool you can restore the object by
using the menu option Edit/Paste. This is equivalent using the Paste function
PASTE tool in the tool bar.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.4. Group Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can group selected objects to together. Grouped objects can be treated as a
single object. A Group Object can be moved, sized, rotated, cut or copied. If
you move a Group object all subordinated objects will move for the same amount.
I think the group function is very useful.

See also Edit/Ungroup


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.5. Ungroup Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Ungroup is the reverse operation to the group function. To ungroup an grouped
this object has to be selected. After ungrouping the objects can treated
independently.

See also Edit/Group


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.6. Lock Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can lock selected objects. Locked objects do not respond to any operation
to alter the size, position or attributes. Locked objects cannot be selected,
cut or copied anymore. Locked objects are indicated by a diagonal cross over
the object (on screen only). Locked objects will be printed, exported and saved
as normal objects. Use the menu option Edit/Unlock to unlock locked objects.

See also Edit/Unlock


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.7. Unlock Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Use the menu option Edit/Unlock to unlock locked objects. All currently locked
objects will be unlocked.

See also Edit/Lock


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.8. Select All Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This option allows you to select all objects.

See also Edit/Deselect all


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.9. Deselect All Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This option allows you to deselect all objects. If you once get the message
"You must select an object to perform this function" although you have selected
an object use this menu option Edit/Deselect all and select the object once
again. This should help.

See also Edit/Select all


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.10. Send To Background ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

A selected object can send to the background. That means that this object
isdrawn behind all other objects and, if it is fully eclipsed by an other
object it will not be visible. This option wil also be useful if you have
problems selecting an object.

See also Edit/Send to Foreground


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.11. Send To Foreground ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

A selected object can send to the foreground. That means that all other objects
are drawn behind this objects and if an other object is fully eclipsed by this
object this object will not be visible. This option wil also be useful if you
have problems selecting an object.

See also Edit/Send to Background


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 4. View Menu ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can select five magnification factors for the display.

o One Third Size View, magnification = 0.333,
o Two Third Size View, magnification = 0.667,
o Normal View,
o Double Size View, magnification = 2,
o Quad Size View, magnification = 4,
Changing the magnification using the menu options View will not alter the
internal coordinates of the objects. Therefore e. g. the print operation is not
affected.

 The menu option View/special characters shows you a dialog with all the
printable characters of the current font.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 4.1. Normal Size ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This is the standard view. Magnification = 1.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 4.2. Double Size ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using this option sets the magnification to 2. The page is displayed in a
double size.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 4.3. Quad Size ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using this option sets the magnification to 4. The page is displayed in a quad
size.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 4.4. One third Size ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using this option sets the magnification to 0.333. The page is displayed in an
one third size.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 4.5. Two third Size ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using this option sets the magnification to 0.667. The page is displayed in a
two third size.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 4.6. Special Characters ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option View/special characters shows a new dialog window displaying
all available characters.

If the text cursor is set you can insert one of the special characters by
moving the mouse cursor over the character you need and clicking the rightmost
mouse button. Characters displayed on the keyboard you can also type in using
the keyboard. Sometimes you should move the dialog window out of the area of
interest to see the result directly. There is no need to dismiss the special
character dialog. It is automatically dismissed after deactivating the text
cursor.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5. Options Menu ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Options provides eleven functions:

o Size,
o Rotate,
o Mirror horizontally,
o Mirror vertically,
o Grid.
o Grid options,
o Snap to Grid,
o Ruler,
o Paper Size,
o Special Options,
o Preferences.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.1. Rotate Object ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using this menu option you can rotate objects by any angle. This function will
work with Line objects, Polyline objects, Predefined Figures, Full Ellipses,
Partial Ellipses and also for Text objects.

Bitmap objects can be rotated only in 90 degrees steps. Boxes, cannot be
rotated at all.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.2. Mirror Object horz. ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using this menu option you can mirror selected objects at an axis at the lower
side of the bounding box. This function should work with all objects.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.3. Mirror Object vert. ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Using this menu option you can mirror selected objects at an axis at the left
side of the bounding box. This function should work with all objects.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.4. Grid ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The application can draw a grid on your working sheet helping to place the
drawing opjects. The grid will be visible on the screen only and is not printed
or exported. There are several options provided to realize the grid namely the
Grid Width and the Grid Offset. After checking the menu option Options/Grid the
menu option Options/Snap to Grid will be enabled and can be used. Use the menu
option Options/Grid Options.

 Options/Grid Options.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.4.1. Grid Options ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Options/Grid Options calls the Grid Options Dialog. This dialog
provides several options to realize the grid namely the Grid Width and the Grid
Offset.

 Grid Options Dialog.

See also Snap to Grid.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.4.1.1. Grid Options  Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Click on the entry field [E1] and type the value of the distance of the grid
lines. Click on the entry field [E2] and type the value of the grid offset that
is the distance of the first grid line to the lower left edge of the page.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.4.2. Snap to Grid ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To align an object to the grid line first the menu option Options/Grid must be
invoked (menu option Options/Grid is checked). Now select an object and click
on the menu option Options/Snap to Grid The object will snap to the nearest
grid line.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.5. Ruler ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The application can draw a the ruler on the X and the Y axis of page. The ruler
will be visible on the screen only and is not printed or exported.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.6. Page Size ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Otions/Page Size calls the the Page Size Dialog where you can
change the default page size and orientation of your drawing sheet. Changing
the page size has no effect on the objects already drawn. You can change the
page size every time without loosing information. Remember that objects located
outside of the valid drawing range (page size) will not be printed.

The maximal page size you can define for the screen is very large. I think its
about 1300 m * 1300 m (I haven't tested that.). However, remember maximal
printing area is 3.26 m * 3.26 m. (That should be sufficient for nearly all
purposes.) It is recommended to choose a page size that is identical to the
size of the printer paper you later will use for a hardcopy.

 Page Size Dialog.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.6.1. Paper Size Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

 Select the size of your drawing sheet with one of the radio buttons [R1 - R9]
or define your own paper size by selecting the radio button User defined. Then
the entry fields [E1] and [E2] will be enabled and you can type the appropriate
values. If you have chosen a predefined page size you additionally should
select either Landscape or Portrait format.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.7. Preferences ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The preferences option allows you to specify many parameters that are used for
initialization during the start of the application. The menu option
Options/Preferences will open the Preferences Notebook where you can make
settings.

 Notebook.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.7.1. Notebook ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can define many parameters in the notebook. The settings you made in the
notebook will be saved automatically if you confirmed the setting in the
dialogs with OK and leave the notebook also with OK. The application starts the
next time using this settings. You can define

o the default Page Size,
o the default Area Attributes,
o the default Line Attributes,
o the default Text Attributes,
o the default Font,
o the default Printer and
o the default Special Options.
Select one page of the notebook by clicking on the tabs or by typing the
underlined letter. You can scroll the tabs with the push button [Sc2]. You can
scroll the pages of the notebook with the push button [Sc1].


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.7.1.1. Standard Font Selection Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can define a default font of the application. Type the name of font into
the entry field [E1] or push the button select other font. Then the Font
Selection Dialog will pop up and you can select the font.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.7.1.2. Default Printer Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The list box [E1] shows all printer drivers actually installed. Select one
printer as the default printer for the application. When you actually launch a
print job you have the chance to select an other printer.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.8. Object Size ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can change the position and the size of a selected object either
graphically with the mouse or numerically using the Object Size Dialog.

 Object Size Dialog.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.8.1. Object Size Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Type the X-position, the Y-position, the length or the hight of the selected
object after clicking on the corresponding entry fields [E1 - E4]. If you
prefer to calculate with inches select the radio button Inch.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.9. Special Options ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can define whether the line width of objects or or if character height or
the character width stay unchanged if the size of the object is altered. Also
you a proportional mode (X and Y axis are sized by the same factor) for sizing
operations.

After selecting the menu option Options/Special Options the Special Options
Dialog is invoked.

 Special Options Dialog.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 5.9.1. Special Options ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

If the line width should be altered when the size of the objects is changed
check push button [P1]. If you will size the X and Y axis independently check
push button [P2]. Otherwise X and Y axis are magnified by the same factor
(proportional mode). You can allow to alter character height (check push button
[P3]) or character width (check push button [P4]) when the object size is
changed.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6. Attributes Menu ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The menu option Attributes has five entries. You can define the (Out)Line
attributes, the Area filling attributes, the Text Attributes, the Font, or the
Pattern type. If you have selected an object (or several objects) for which the
specified attributes are defined only the attributes of this (these) object(s)
will be set according the options you have chosen using the Attribute dialogs.
If no such object is selected the standard attributes (used when creating a new
object) will be set according the options you have chosen using the Attribute
dialogs.

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Font selection,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.1. Line Attributes ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This menu option invokes the Line Attributes Dialog. Line attributes can be
specified for Lines, Polylines, Boxes, Predefined Figures, Full Ellipses,
Partial Ellipses and also for Text objects. If you have selected such an object
(or several objects) the (outline) attributes of this (these) object(s) will be
set according the options you have chosen using the Line Attribute Dialog. If
no such object is selected the standard attributes (used when creating a new
object) will be set according the options you have chosen using the Line
Attribute Dialog.

 Line Attributes Dialog.

See also

o Area attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Font selection,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.1.1. Line attributes Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Line Attributes Dialog allows you to specify the width of the line
(outline), the colour or how line is mixed with the background or other
objects. This is valid for Lines, Polylines, Boxes, Predefined Figures, Full
Ellipses, Partial Ellipses and also for Text objects. To change the width of a
line (outline) click on one of the predefined push buttons [P1 - P8] or click
on the entry field [E1] and type the appropriate value. To change the colour of
the line (outline) click on the push button Line Colour [P9]. A new dialog the
Colour Settings Dialog will pop up where you select or define the colour
needed. To change the mixing mode click on the push button Mix Mode [P11]. The
Mix Mode Dialog will pop up allows you to make your settings. Additionally
there is a cross reference to the Area Attributes Dialog [P10].

For Line objects you can additionally specify the line type and the form of the
start and the end of the line. Select one of the radio buttons [R1 - R6] to set
the line type and one of the radio buttons [R7 - R12] to set the line start or
[R13 - R18] to set the line end as shown by the pictograms.

In the preview field an example line with the chosen attributes will be shown.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.2. Area Attributes ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This menu option invokes the Area Attributes Dialog. Area attributes can be
specified for Polylines, Boxes, Predefined Figures, Full Ellipses, Partial
Ellipses and also for Text objects. If you have selected such an object (or
several objects) the attributes of this (these) object(s) will be set according
the options you have chosen using the Area Attribute Dialog. If no such object
is selected the standard attributes (used when creating a new object) will be
set according the options you have chosen using the Area Attribute Dialog.

 Area Attributes Dialog.

See also

o Line attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Font selection,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.2.1. Area Attributes Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Area Attributes Dialog allows you to specify the fill type and the colour
and pattern of the area. Also the outline of the object can be specified. These
attributes are valid for Polylines, Boxes, Predefined Figures, Full Ellipses,
Partial Ellipses and also for Text objects. To change the fill type of area
select one of the radio buttons [R1 - R4]. The options you have are Not Filled
[R1], Filled With Pattern [R2], Filled Solid [R3] or Colour Shading [R4]. If
you choose Not Filled only the outline of the object is shown if also the
Special Outline option [R8] is set. Else you will see nothing. After selecting
the Filled With Pattern option the push button Select Pattern [P1] is enabled.
You can call the Pattern Selection Dialog and select a pattern. Also the push
buttons Foreground Colour(s) [P2] and Background Colour [P3] will be enabled
and the Colour Settings Dialog can be called to set the foreground and
background colours. Having selected the Colour Shading option [R4] a click on
the push button Foreground Colour(s) [P2] will call the Colour Shading Dialog
and you can define the starting and the end colour.

You can draw an outline around the object. Select Special Outline [R8]. You can
call the Colour Settings Dialog to define the colour of the outline. A link to
the Line Attributes Settings Dialog is provided e. g. to specify the outline
width. Select Outline as Interior if you don't want to draw an outline.

For Box objects you can furthermore define rounded edges. Select Rounded [R6],
click on the entry field [E1] and type the appropriate value.

In the preview field an example line with the chosen attributes will be shown.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.2.2. Colour Settings Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Colour Settings Dialog allows to select or define a colour used for
outlines or areas dpending from which dialog the Colour Settings Dialog is
called. Select one of the predifined colour from the value set [S1].

Alternatively, you can define a new colour. To do so simply set the sliders
[Sl1 - Sl3] or click on one of the enry fields Red, Green or Blue [E1 - E3] and
type the appropriate values. The application will check if the new defined
colour is different to one of predifined colours and will show the new colour
in the first unused field of the value set [S2]. Colours previously defined and
shown in value set [S2] can be selected like every other colour shown in value
set [S1].


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.2.3. Colour Shading Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Areas can be filled with the option colour shading. That means filling starts
with one defined colour changing slowly to defined end colour. Remember, areas
may be polylines, boxes, predifined figures, full ellipses, partial ellipses,
but also text objects, The colour shading dialog is invoked via Menu/Area
attributes setting area fill type to colour shading and pushing options. To use
the colour shading option you must specify the Start Colour [P1] and the End
Colour [P2]. Pushing [P1] or [P2] will both call the Colour Settings Dialog.
Pushbutton [P3] exchanges Start and End Colour.

Select the type of colour shading by pushing the buttons [P4 - P9]. This
application provides horizontal, vertical, diagonal left to right, diagonal
right to left, circle and box shape colour shading.

Note:

It is quite disappointing invoking the colour shading option if the screen does
not work in the real colour mode. May be, your printer produces better results.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.3. Text Attributes ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This menu option invokes the Text Attributes Dialog. If you have selected a (or
several) text object(s) the attributes of this (these) object(s) will be set
according the options you have chosen using the Text Attribute Dialog. If no
text object is selected the standard attributes (used when creating a new text
object) will be set according the options you have chosen using the Text
Attribute Dialog.

 Text Attributes Dialog.

see also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Font selection,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.3.1. Text Attributes Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Text Attributes Dialog allows you to select the orientation, outline and
fill styles and colours or the mixing attributes of Text objects. Select the
angle of the text by pushing one of the predefined angle push buttons [P10 -
P13] or click on the entry field [E1] and type any angle value you need. The
angle is defined counterclockwise between the baseline of the text and the
x-axis. You can define the direction of writing (left to right [R6] or top to
bottom [R5]). You mirror the text either horizontally [P7] or vertically [P8].
The foreground and background colours and mixing modes can be defined pushing
the buttons [P1 - P4]. In the entry field [E2] you can define the Shear Angle.
The shear angle is the angle between the y-axis and the vertical direction of
the character. You ca define a shear angle between -89.99 degrees (character is
slanted to the left) and 89.99 degrees (character is slanted to the right). A
shear angle of zero degrees means that the character is not slanted (default
setting). Example:

Clicking on the Foreground Colour button or the Background Colour button will
open the Colour Settings Dialog. Clicking on the Foreground Mix Mode button or
the Background Mix Mode button will open the Mix Mode Dialog. Links to the Line
Attributes Dialog [P6], to the Area Attributes Dialog [P5] and the Font
Selection Dialog [P9] are provided. The alignment options [R1 - R4] are
designed for further versions and not used.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.4. Font Selection ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This menu option invokes the Font Selection Dialog. If you have selected a (or
several) text object(s) the font attributes of this (these) object(s) will be
set according the options you have chosen using the Font Selection Dialog. If
no text object is selected the standard font attributes (used when creating a
new text object) will be set according the options you have chosen using the
Font Selection Dialog.

It is very recommended to select an Outline font. Most features provided to
change the text appearance will not work with bitmap fonts.

 Font Selection Dialog.

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.4.1. Font Selection Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Font Selection Dialog allows you to select a font, the size and the
attributes of the font for Text objects. To select a font click on the scroll
button right of the list box [E1]. A list of available fonts will be shown.
Select the font. Select the font style from list box [E2] and the size of the
font from predefined values in list box [E3]. You can specify any size of the
font (outline fonts only) by clicking on the list box field [E3] and typing the
point size. Furthermore you can one or several options to emphesize the text
[P1 -P3]. If you like to use outlined characters I suggest not to select the
option Outline [P1] but choose from the Area Attributes Dialog the option NOT
FILLED. That is a more flexible solution.

It is very recommended to use outline fonts. If you have selected a bitmap font
the application will give you a message and ask for conformation.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.5. Pattern Attributes ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

This menu option invokes the Pattern Selection Dialog. Pattern attributes can
be specified for Polylines, Boxes, Predefined Figures, Full Ellipses, Partial
Ellipses and also for Text objects. If you have selected such an object (or
several objects) the attributes of this (these) object(s) will be set according
the options you have chosen using the Pattern Attribute Dialog. If no such
object is selected the standard attributes (used when creating a new object)
will be set according the options you have chosen using the Pattern Attribute
Dialog. The selections you choose in the Pattern Selection Dialog. will only
become valid if you have checked the FILLED WITH PATTERN option for this object
(see Area Attributes Dialog).

 Pattern Selection Dialog.

see also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Font selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.5.1. Pattern Settings Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Pattern Settings Dialog allows you to specify the pattern of areas or how
the pattern is mixed with the foreground or the background. Pattern are valid
for Polylines, Boxes, Predefined Figures, Full Ellipses, Partial Ellipses and
also for Text objects. Select a pattern from the value set [S1]. To change the
mixing mode click on one of the push buttons [P2] or [P3]. The Mix Mode Dialog
will pop up allowing you to make your settings. To select a new pattern set
[P1] is currently not granted. Also setting a different reference point will
available in a future version.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 6.5.2. Mix Mode Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

You can specify different mixing modes for Foreground [R1 - R4] and Background
[R5 - R8] mixing. Standard is Foreground mix = overpaint and Background mix =
leave alone. Other option could produce curious results. Just try.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7. Objects ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

DRAWCAT provides several tools to build primitive graphic objects. These are
the line tool , the polyline tool , the box tool , the polygon tool , the full
ellipses tool , the partial ellipses tool , and the text tool  . Furthermore
bitmaps can be imported using the menu option File/Impor and manipulated.

Graphic objects can be selected. This is necessary for changing the size,
position or orientation of the object. Also the Cut, Copy, Group and Ungroup
function can only be applied to selected objects. To select an object assure
that the Selection tool  is activated, then move the mouse cursor over the
object and click the leftmost mouse button. Alternatively you move the mouse
cursor outside of the object, push the left mouse button, drag open the rubber
box far enough that the object is totally included and then release the left
mouse button. To indicate that the object is selected a box with eight squares
is drawn around the object (see below). To deselect a selected object repeat
one of the procedures described above.

WARNING! Under certain circumstances some functions especially Edit/Group will
not produce the expected result. In such a case use the menu option
Edit/Deselect all, select the objects you wish to group again and retry the
required function.

Some objects (polylines, bitmaps) can be in a third mode, the EDIT mode (see
polylines, bitmaps ).


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.1. Lines ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To draw a line (single line) you must select the LINE button in the tool bar.
with the left mouse button. The LINE button will change into the selected mode
. Then move the mouse cursor to the desired starting point and click the left
mouse button again. You now can move the mouse cursor to the desired end point
of the line. a rubber band will follow the movements of the mouse cursor. After
clicking the left mouse button again the line is calculated and shown.

Initially the currently defined line attributes are used by the application to
draw the line. To alter the appearance of the lines you have to select this
line object (assure that only this object is selected) and call from the menu
Attributes the option Line attributes. The advantage of single lines is the
variety of the forms of endpoints and linestyles you can specify. Please use
the opportunites provided by the menu option Attributs/Line attributes or
simply doubleclick on the line object with the left mouse button.

If you have drawn a perfect horizontal or vertical line with a very small line
width it may difficult to hit this object with the mouse cursor to select it.
Use the Drag Selection Mode. Furthermore it may be difficult to move such a
line, especially with a bad working mouse. Use the menu option Options/Size and
give the coordinates manually. An alternative way is the following: Uncheck the
option  allow to alter line width in the dialog opening after using the menu
option Options/Special Options. Select the line object. Then press the left
mouse when the cursor is over the right side (top) of selection marker in the
middle of the long side of the object and drag the bounding box larger. Now you
can easily move the line object which is located at the left side (bottom) of
the bounding box.

 Attributes/Line Attributes.

 Line Attributes Dialog.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.2. Polylines ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To draw a polyline (a series of connected lines) you must select the POLYLINE
button in the tool bar. with the left mouse button. The POLYLINE button will
change into the selected mode  . Then move the mouse cursor to the desired
starting point and click the left mouse button again. You now can move the
mouse cursor to the desired end point of the first line. a rubber band will
follow the movements of the mouse cursor. After clicking the left mouse button
again the first line is calculated and shown. Move the mouse cursor to the end
point of the second line, again a rubber band now starting at the end point of
the first line will follow. After clicking once more the left mouse button the
second line is calculated and shown. You can build that way up to 500 lines for
one object. Exit the constructing mode by clicking the rightmost mouse button.

Initially the currently defined line attributes are used by the application to
draw the polyline. To alter the appearance of the lines you have to select this
polyline object (assure that only this object is selected) and call from the
menu Attributes the option Line attributes. Furthermore polyline objects can be
filled with a single colour, colour shading or patterns. To fill a polyline
object select this object and call from the menu Attributes the option Area
attributes.

Internally these polylines are handled as Bezier splines. The straight lines
can be easily converted to curved lines changing the Bezier line control
points. Bezier splines start from a specified point (B1) and go to the fourth
specified point (B4). The second (BC2) and the third (BC3) points are used as
control points. Subsequent splines start from the end point (B4) of the
previous spline. The control points (BC2, BC3, ...) determine the slope of the
curve at the bezier points (B1, B4, ...). If you want the gradient to be
continuous at a Bezier point (e. g. B12) you must assure that the preceeding
control point (BC11), the chosen Bezier point (B12) and the next control point
(BC13) describe a straight line.

 Edit Polylines.

See also

o Predefined Figures.
o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.2.1. Edit Polylines ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To edit a POLYLINE object you must move the mouse cursor over this object and
double click the leftmost mouse button. This results in showing the Bezier
points as outlined squares and the control points as eight-point stars. One of
the Bezier points is selected (filled square). Additionally five new push
buttons will occur at the bottom of the tool menu. Using this new tools you can
insert a new Bezier point [P1], delete the selected Bezier point [P2], close an
open figure [P3] by concatenating the first and the last point of the object,
opening a closed polyline [P4] or straighten the curve between the selected and
the preceeding Bezier points [P5].

You can also edit the polyline by moving the mouse cursor over one of bezier
points or the control points, pressing the left mouse button and dragging the
symbol. As long as the mouse button is pressed the symbol will be moved by the
mouse, the resulting Bezier spline as well as the original spline is shown.
After releasing the left mouse button the old spline is erased and the new one
will be shown.

Exit the EDIT mode by clicking the rightmost mouse button.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.3. Boxes ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To draw a box you must select the BOX button in the tool bar. with the left
mouse button. The BOX button will change into the selected mode  Then move the
mouse cursor to the desired starting point and click the left mouse button
again. You now can move the mouse cursor to the desired end point of the line.
a rubber box will follow the movements of the mouse cursor. After clicking the
left mouse button again the box is calculated and shown.

Initially the currently defined area attributes are used by the application to
draw the box. To alter the appearance of the box you have to select this box
object (assure that only this object is selected) and call from the menu
Attributes the option Area attributes. You can define a pattern as well as the
colour to fill the box. Also the colour shading option can applied to boxes. A
line around the box can separately specified. The only advantage of the box
object is the opportunity to specify rounded edges. However, a major
disadvantage is that box objects cannot be rotated. So, if you can renounce the
rounded edges it is recommended to draw a box using the rectangle in the
Polygon Tool.

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.4. Polygons ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The application provides several predefined polygons like triangles, oktaeders,
arrows or stars. After selecting the Polygon Tool  in the tool bar. with the
left mouse button. The polygon tool button will change into the selected mode
. A dialog window will pop up. Select one of the predefined figures from the
value set [S1]. If you want the figures to be filled with colour mark the check
box [P1] and specify the filling attributes [P2]. Then click on the OK button.
The dialog window will close. Now move the mouse cursor to the desired starting
point and click the left mouse button. You now can move the mouse cursor to the
desired end point of the line. a rubber box will follow the movements of the
mouse cursor. After clicking the left mouse button again the chosen figure is
calculated and shown.

Initially the currently defined line and area attributes are used by the
application to draw the figure. To alter the appearance of the figure you have
to select this object (assure that only this object is selected) and call from
the menu Attributes the option Area attributes. You can define a pattern as
well as the colour to fill the box. Also the colour shading option can applied
to boxes. A line around the box can separately specified.

Each figure is defined as a closed polyline. After invoking the edit mode
(double click on the object with the left mouse button) you can move the
individual points of the figure or bend the straight lines (see Edit
Polylines).

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.5. Circles and Ellipses ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To draw an ellipse select the ELLIPSE button in the tool bar. with the left
mouse button. The ELLIPSE button will change into the selected mode  . Then
move the mouse cursor to the desired starting point and click the left mouse
button again. You now can move the mouse cursor to the desired end point of the
line. A rubber ellipse will follow the movements of the mouse cursor. After
clicking the left mouse button again the ellipse is calculated and shown.

It may not easy to draw a perfect circle using the ELLIPSE tool. Therefore you
should perform the following steps. Create an ellipse nearly looking like a
circle. Then exit the construction mode by clicking the right mouse button and
select the ellipse. Call the menu option Options/Size and set the values in the
Hight and Length entry fields of the Size Dialog to an equal number (e. g. for
a circle with 20 mm diameter set Hight = 20.0 mm and Length = 20.0 mm).

Initially the currently defined area attributes are used by the application to
draw the ellipse. To alter the appearance of the ellipse you have to select
this ellipse object (assure that only this object is selected) and call from
the menu Attributes the option Area attributes. You can define a pattern as
well as the colour to fill the ellipse. Also the colour shading option can
applied to ellipses. A line around the ellipses can separately defined.

Internally ellipses created using the ELLIPSE tool are defined as ellipse
segments with a start angle of 0 degrees and an end angle of 360 degrees. The
start and the end angle can be changed in the EDIT mode. To use this option
doubleclick the leftmost mouse button while the mouse cursor is over the
ellipse object. The application will draw two rubber lines from the center of
ellipse to the start point (outlined square) and to the end point (filled
square). For a full ellipse the start point is eclipsed by the end point and
only a filled square is shown. You now can move the start or the end point by
moving the mouse cursor over one of these squares, push the leftmost mouse
button and drag the point. After releasing the mouse button the resulting
partial ellipse is calculated and shown. Exit the EDIT mode by clicking the
rightmost mouse button.

See also

o Segments and Arches.
o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Font selection,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.6. Segments and Arches ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To draw a segment or an arch select the Segments/Arch tool in the tool bar.
with the left mouse button. The Segments/Arch button will change into the
selected mode  . A dialog window will pop up. Select one of the predefined
figures from the value set [S1]. If you want the figures to be filled with
colour mark the check box [P1] and specify the filling attributes [P2]. Then
click on the OK button. The dialog window will close. Now move the mouse cursor
to the desired starting point and click the left mouse button. You now can move
the mouse cursor to the desired end point of the line. A rubber partial ellipse
will follow the movements of the mouse cursor. After clicking the left mouse
button again the chosen figure is calculated and shown.

The start and the end angle of a partial ellipse can be changed in the EDIT
mode. To use this option doubleclick the leftmost mouse button while the mouse
cursor is over the ellipse object. The application will draw two rubber lines
(see below) from the center of ellipse to the start point (outlined square) and
to the end point (filled square). You now can move the start or the end point
by moving the mouse cursor over one of these squares, push the leftmost mouse
button and drag the point. After releasing the mouse button the resulting
partial ellipse is calculated and shown. Exit the EDIT mode by clicking the
rightmost mouse button.

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.7. Fillets ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To draw a fillet (a curved line made up of one or more arcs each touching a
different straight line) you must select the Fillet Tool in the tool bar. with
the left mouse button. The Fillet Button will change into the selected mode  .
Then move the mouse cursor to the desired starting point and click the left
mouse button again. You now can move the mouse cursor to the desired end point
of the first line. a rubber band will follow the movements of the mouse cursor.
After clicking the left mouse button again the first straight line is
calculated and shown. Move the mouse cursor to the end point of the second
line, again a rubber band now starting at the end point of the first line but
also the rubber fillet will follow. After clicking once more the left mouse
button the second line and the first fillet are calculated and shown. You can
build that way up to 500 fillets for one object. Exit the constructing mode by
clicking the rightmost mouse button.

Initially the currently defined line attributes are used by the application to
draw the fillet line. To alter the appearance of the lines you have to select
this fillet object (assure that only this object is selected) and call from the
menu Attributes the option Line attributes. Furthermore fillet objects can be
filled with a single colour, colour shading or patterns. To fill a fillet
object select this object and call from the menu Attributes the option Area
attributes.

 Edit Fillets.

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.7.1. Edit Fillets ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To edit a Fillet object you must move the mouse cursor over this object and
double click the leftmost mouse button. This results in showing the fillet
control points as outlined squares and the lines connecting the control points.
One of the fillet control points is selected (filled square). Additionally two
new push buttons will occur at the bottom of the tool menu. Using this new
tools you can insert a new control point [P1] or delete the selected control
point [P2].

You can also edit the polyline by moving the mouse cursor over one of fillet
control points, pressing the left mouse button and dragging the symbol. As long
as the mouse button is pressed the symbol will be moved by the mouse, the
resulting fillet as well as the original fillet is shown. After releasing the
left mouse button the old fillet line is erased and the new one will be shown.

Exit the Edit Mode by clicking the rightmost mouse button.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.8. Text ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

To write text select the TEXT Tool  in the tool bar with the left mouse button.
The TEXT tool button will change into the selected mode  . You now can move the
mouse cursor to the desired start point of the text and click the left mouse
button. Now the text cursor will be shown and you can start to type the text.
To exit the text typing mode click the rightmost mouse button.

To edit already existing text objects move the mouse cursor over the text
object doubleclick the left mouse button. Three new icons will appear at the
bottom of the tool bar. Select the edit icon [P1]  if not already selected.The
text cursor will be set und you can change, insert and delete characters. Move
the text cursor to the appropriate position using the keyboard ARROW keys. You
also can invoke the special text mode by clicking on the  icon [P2]. The
Special Text Dialog will pop up and you can make your decisions. Clicking on
the attributes icon [P3]  calls the Text Attributes Dialog.

Initially the currently defined text attributes are used by the application to
draw the text. There are many options to alter the appearance of the text.
First you have to select the text object (assure that only this object is
selected). You now can call the menu option Attributes/Font selection and
choose another font or another font size for your text. It is very recommended
to select an Outline font. The application will warn you if you selected a
bitmap font because most features provided to change the text appearance will
not work with bitmap fonts. You also can call the menu option Attributes/Text
attributes and change e. g. the angle of the text line. Text characters are
internally handled like the other geometric figures. Therefore you can also
define the filling pattern, and the colour or you apply the colour shading
option. You can also draw the outline of the characters in another colour as
the interior. To select these option call the menu option Attributes/Area
attributes or follow the cross references in dialog of the menu option
Attributes/Text attributes.

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Font selection,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.8.1. Special Text Dialog ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Choose the type of the text using the radio buttons [R1 - R3]. Option regular
will not alter the appearance of the text with the exception that the
specifications you gave for Character Extra and Space Extra will be taken into
account. Option two [R2] shows the text with increasing characters (type in one
or both entry fields [E1] and [E2] a positive angle) or decreasing characters
(type in one or both entry fields [E1] and [E2] a negative angle). Do not use
large angles. E. g. angles of +15 degrees or -3 degrees will produce quite
satisfactory results. Option three shows the string bend in a circle. Specify
the radius of the circle in entry field [E3].

Additionally you can specify the Character Extra in entry field [E4]. A
positive (negative) value will increase (degrease) the distance between the
characters of the string. A positive (negative) value in the Space Extra entry
field [E3] will increase (degrease) the distance between the words of the
string. Furthermore links to the Text Attributes Dialog [P1] and the Font
Dialog [P2] are provided.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 7.9. Bitmap ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

Although this application is vector-based it provides the opportunity to
include bitmap graphics. Also some restricted functions to manipulate bitmaps
are provided. Use the menu option File/Import to import bitmaps. Perhaps not
all bitmap formats can be handled. If the application refuses to import the
selected bitmap you may open this bitmap with a good bitmap graphics program
and save it again as OS/2 (.BMP) bitmap. Sometimes that will help.

Bitmaps can be sized and moved around the screen. However rotation is
restricted to 90 degrees steps.

Bitmaps can edited. To invoke the bitmap edit mode doubleclick the left mouse
button while the cursor is over the bitmap object. A box will be drawn around
the bitmap with six-point stars at the edges. Additionally two new icons will
appear in the tool bar (see below). With tool [P1] you can change the colours
and the brightness of the picture. After selecting the COLOUR tool [P1] a new
dialog will pop up. Use the sliders [Sl1 - Sl4] to change the colour of the
bitmap (carefully!) or type the appropriate values into the entry fields [E1 -
E4]. The dialog will be active until you push the Dismiss button or exit the
EDIT mode by clicking the right mouse button.

The PAINTING tool [P2] invokes a pen for manual painting in the bitmap area.
After clicking on the PAINTING tool [P2] the Pen Size dialog pops up. You can
define the pen size [E1], the colour of the pen [P1] or the Mix Mode [P2]. To
rub out some pixels use the colour white. After exit of the Pen Size dialog
with OK move the mouse cursor to area of the bitmap you want to paint, push the
left mouse button and paint. Exit the PAINTING mode by clicking the right mouse
button.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 8. Tool Bar ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The Tool Bar is located at the left border of the application window. The tools
provided are:

o The Selection Tool [P1]
o The Line Tool [P2]
o The Polyline Tool [P3]
o The Box Tool [P4]
o The Polygon Tool [P5]
o The Ellipse/Circle Tool [P6]
o The Segments/Arch Tool [P7]
o The Fillet Tool [P8]
o The Text Tool [P9]
o The Trash Can [P10]
o The Paste Function [P11].
o Furthermore some context dependent funktions are provided [P12].

See also

o Line attributes,
o Area attributes,
o Text attributes,
o Font selection,
o Pattern selection.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 8.1. Trash Can ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The trash can is a button located in the tool bar. To remove an object from the
screen you first must select this object and than click on trash button in the
tool bar. Factually the object is copied into the clipboard. This function is
equivalent to using menu Edit/Cut option. The last object put into the trash
can can be restored using the PASTE tool in the toolbar or using the menu
Edit/Paste.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 8.2. Paste ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

 The paste function  is a button located in the tool bar. If you previously put
an object on the clipboard either using the menu options Edit/Cut or Edit/Copy
or using the trash can tool you can restore the object by clicking on the PASTE
button. This is equivalent using the menu option Edit/Paste.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 9. Clipboard ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The clipboard is used to store an object or some object for further use. You
put selected objects (you can select several objects!) on the clipboard using
the menu options Edit/Cut or Edit/Copy or clicking on the trash can button.
Object(s) can be restored by clicking on the Paste Button or using the menu
option Edit/Paste. Objects put on the clipboard are stored in an
application-privat format as well as in the OS/2 Metafile format. Therefore the
clipboard can be used to interchange parts of graphics between different
applications. (Properly written programs should be able to import OS/2
Metafiles, DRAWCAT cannot.) However, Metafile seems to suffer from several
restrictions inherent to the operating system. If you will use the clipboard to
interchange parts of the graphic with other programs you should avoid the
colour shading options provided by DRAWCAT e.g. Of course, all objects
temporary deferred to the clipboard can be readily restored by DRAWCAT.


ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 10. Mouse Buttons ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ

The mouse and its buttons are extensively used by DRAWCAT. In general a Left
Mouse Button Click is used to select an object or to define start and end
points of the objects during construction. Also the text cursor will be set if
the text tool is active by a Left Mouse Button Click.

Assumed the selection tool is active a Left Mouse Button Push and Drag
Operation will draw a rubber selection box and the objects located inside this
box will be selected after release of the mouse button.

If the mouse cursor is over an object that allows an edit mode (polylines,
predifined figures, full ellipses, partial ellipses, text objects, and bitmaps
) a Left Mouse Button Doubleclick will inkoke the edit mode.

A Right Mouse Button Click usually aborts the current operation and the
selection mode is activated. If the selection mode is already active a Right
Mouse Button Click will deselect all objects.