ANNOUNCING: MegaTreeMaker

[dgirard]

Announcing Beta1: MegaTreeMaker

Just in time for last minute vixen sequencing!

Purpose of this application:
This application will generate multi-channel, multi-color pattern sequences for use in MegaTree (and other) sequencing, and paste them to the clipboard for insertion into your Vixen 2.5+ sequence.

The primary objective in creating these sequences was to make them highly “musical”. There’s nothing (ok, almost nothing) cooler than a megatree that sequences exactly to the beat of the music. With current cut/paste operations, it’s difficult to re-use existing sequences as every song has a different BPM (Beat per Minute) This app solves that problem!

Beta1 Limitations: (what?, it’s not perfect?)
1. There is no error checking on values entered, or on configuration file reading…don’t be surprised by exception errors!
2. There's a limit to the number of channels...if it crashes, you've probably entered too many...try doing fewer colors...
3. The patterns output are dependant on the color choices entered in the config program
4. The transitions between iterations are not perfect at this time, you may need to do a bit of clean up...


Features:
1. Patterns are defined in an XML configuration file. Feel free to add more and send them to me!
2. Patterns are graphically illustrated and also include a text description. (Note: the "Multi" color is not illustrated at this time, but it is output if you've got them)
3. “Beat” measurement can be input in either ticks (if you’ve calculated yourself), or by a direct BPM measurement. If you know the BPM of a song, use that for a more accurate representation…or run your audio file through software to determine it’s BPM (There’s several FREE options for this).
4. Inverted patterns are as simple as one click!
5. Able to specify what value to use for “full on” or “full Off” to create interesting effects.
6. Use the "iterations" field to define how many times you'd like a given pattern to repeat.

To use:
Simply copy the application and the MT.XML file to the same folder on your machine, and run!...it runs independently of Vixen at this time, but you can paste it’s output into Vixen very easily.

This app is written using .NET 3.5. You must have this installed prior to running this app.

Special thanks to Mike over at landolights.com for letting me use his pattern layouts, names and descriptions to get started!

Fire it up and let me know what you think!!!

Most recent BETA attached to THIS POST!

[dgirard]

I've created a survey to understand how everyone has built their configuration...

If you don't mind, can you please take 2 minutes for me????

http://surveys.polldaddy.com/s/3C013962013E3BE4/

[tlorek]

Sounds very cool!

I'll definitely be playing with it tonight.

[oldcqr]

When David eMailed me a few days ago, I said COOL!

Like he said, Vixen is a bit tricky to align beats to, since the grid spacing is 'fixed length' (ie, if you pick .05 second spacing [20 frames per second], EVERY column is .05 later than the last).

So with a song that is say 120BPM, every change of your tree is going to be 10 columns.

While it's a pain to remember that, what happens if the next song you want to use the same pattern on is only 90 BPM? Now your 10 column grids have to be 15 columns. No Cut and Paste for you!

When I get the chance, I'll update my Megatree DIY articles with a reference to this neat tool!

[WildWillie]

Looking real good!!!! Thanks a million for taking the time to create this.

[Wayne J]

Sounds very interesting and could be used for other things.

Why the "holding first reply"?

[oldcqr]

You know.... I just realized thatI posted that comment here at DIY, but I thought I was at PC.

Of course we all know how Vix works.

Senior Moment.... 8-)

[dgirard]

Sounds very interesting and could be used for other things.

Why the "holding first reply"?

The cool kidz hold the first reply so that if the following discussion produces meaningful documentation/ideas/etc, then there's space for me to edit at the start of the thread and summarize the details there....

Regarding other things...I'm considering what to do with leaping arches....while this can help with them, I think there's more we can do...

I'll be back and hop into flash chat later tonight if anyone has any questions...proably between 10 and 12 Eastern Time....

Enjoy!

[tlorek]

I see some very good potential here, once some of the limitations mentioned in the original posting are addressed (slices/colors/etc).

[dgirard]

I see some very good potential here, once some of the limitations mentioned in the original posting are addressed (slices/colors/etc).

Thanks...I knew those were going to be issues...but with the sequencing season high upon everyone, I wanted to get it out there in case there were other comments....I also figured there must be plenty of folks with 8 slice one color trees... ;-}

I'm hoping my tree will be 8/8/8 this year...thus that's where I started...it's also matches illustrations from Mike at landolights.

It's actually not hard to edit the xml to change the slices (the graphic illustration only accounts for 8 right now though)...the code will output the correct patterns I think...

[dgirard]

OK, I'm preparing beta2...I'm finishing up the channel mapper since that seems to be a requested feature....and I've updated the animation to reflect the changing settings on the dialog (speed, direction, invert, etc)...so you can really see what the pattern does....

Any other feedback?

Anything missing that's gotta be there for it to be of any use?

Is 8x8x8 a good baseline for default patterns?...if you let me know what the most popular layouts are I can help either make additional configurations, or help you with editing the xml to handle it...

If it's good enough as is, I've got some other ideas to help with my own sequencing that I'll get started on (no promises though)...but I'll do what's needed to make sure this one is usefull enough before I move on...

-David

[Deast]

It would be nice to be able to select the number of channels. I plan on using 16 this year, maybe more next year (multiple colors.)

[dirknerkle]

Any other feedback?

Anything missing that's gotta be there for it to be of any use?



I need it to build the mega-tree parts, and then to assemble them, including concrete, guy wires, etc. Is that too much to ask??? ;)

Sounds like you're making a cool app!!! 8-)

[dgirard]

I need it to build the mega-tree parts, and then to assemble them, including concrete, guy wires, etc. Is that too much to ask??? ;)

Sounds like you're making a cool app!!! 8-)

I hear ya!...I've got to still build mine...with time tight, and sequencing time/build time at a premium...I figured this app will help a lot!

Now, since I've written the sequencing app...perhaps someone else can write the app that actually builds the tree!?! (LOL)

BTW: I created a Survey to help understand everyone's configurations...if you've got 2 minutes...please hop out and fill it in for me?

http://surveys.polldaddy.com/s/3C013962013E3BE4/

[dgirard]

Here's Beta 2!

I've taken care of the following:

1. Channel Mapper! There's a MTChannels.xml file now...Manual editing is needed to change this. Also, there are two sample files...both White, Red, Green...both with 8 channels of each, but one has 1-8 white, 1-8 red, 1-8 Green output, and the other is interleaved (ie, White, Red, Green-1, White Red Green-2, etc...)...just copy the one you want to mtchannels.xml and away you go!

NOTE: The channel mapper only impacts what channels are output...for a pattern to use those channels, the mt.xml file also has to be built with the correct channel configuration.

2. Fixed up the animation so that it shows the speed, direction, and inverting (invert shows on white only..you'll have to use your imagination for the other colors).

3. Cleaned up a bunch of code with 8 channel limitations...the animation, for example, will now show as many channels as you have configured.

4. You can have a different # of channles for each color!...so the possibility of say, 12 White, but 4 red and 4 green will work!

[dgirard]

Here's Beta 2!

I've taken care of the following:

1. Channel Mapper! There's a MTChannels.xml file now...Manual editing is needed to change this. Also, there are several sample files...select a pair of files which match your config...the default are 8 channel files...theres a basic 16 channel example too...

NOTE: The channel mapper only impacts what channels are output...for a pattern to use those channels, the mt.xml file also has to be built with the correct channel configuration.

2. Fixed up the animation so that it shows the speed, direction, and inverting (invert shows on white only..you'll have to use your imagination for the other colors).

3. Cleaned up a bunch of code with 8 channel limitations...the animation, for example, will now show as many channels as you have configured.

4. You can have a different # of channles for each color!...so the possibility of say, 12 White, but 4 red and 4 green will work!

I'm working on some documentation on the config files...the channelmapper should be easy...the other file is also not too bad, but is more complex.

Thanks everyone who filled out my poll!...it's helped very much. If you're setup is not 8/8/8, let me know what it is here and if I have time, I'll make you a set of config files (and add the samples to the Beta3 download)

Sorry to those 3 people who grabbed the first release of beta2...there was a major bug which is fixed in B2.1...

[Snowmizer2]

I agree, selecting the number of channels would be cool. Especially for some of us newcomers with limited number of Channels, I have built a mega-tree but its going to be a smaller 10 channel white only tree this year and I will add more later.

It would be nice to output a ten channel only tree sequence.

[dgirard]

OK...for those who want to dig in and mess with the XML...at least the MTchannels.xml file...here's the documentation for it....

[kostyun]

I have 24 / 24 / 24 for my channels :) - edited the mtchannels.xml, then went into mt.xml.. and decided for forgo this noise for today!

Looks great though

[dgirard]

I have 24 / 24 / 24 for my channels :) - edited the mtchannels.xml, then went into mt.xml.. and decided for forgo this noise for today!

Looks great though

LOL...yea...it's worse than it looks....I'm working on a better way...

If you just update the MTchannels.xml, it'll produce proper output for you, but it won't use the extra channels.... :grin:

I use both Ultraedit (or plain old Notepad), and XMLNotepad (from Microsoft) for editing XML...the mt.xml is much easier with XMLNotepad, but cutting and pasting is easier with a text tool (also easier to screw it up though)...

I'm working on a tool to build at least a basic set of patterns for ANY channel configuration....I dont have time to do what I *REALLY* want to do for configuration (easy pattern entry, and support for arches too--these will probably have to wait for XMass 2010)...but I can hack something together to make this useful...

---sooner or later I've got to stop writing programs, and start creating sequences... :!:

Thanks for the feedback!

[dgirard]

OK, for Frank, and anyone else who isn't using 8/8/8 (but is using equal number of channels of each color)....

Here's Beta 3....I think barring any major bugs, this should do it for most folks...it'll be at least a week for another update.

Here's the drill...unzip, and put BOTH executables into one folder...run MTGenerateConfig FIRST!!!, and input the number of channels you have...NOTE: all the color patterns assume equal # of channels...so I have no idea what will happen if you use different values for the colors you use.

Tip for peeps with different # of channels...create 2 folders with the EXE's...one for your primary color, and one for your secondary (use WHITE for both)...it'll be extra cutting and pasting, but still can help!

Also note, most patterns only use white anyway...

OK...back to business....the MTGenerateConfig BUILDS BOTH XML FILES for you!...Note: It will BLOW AWAY any existing files, so back any up if you've been playing....

The files it builds will be specific to your configuration and should work nicely.

If no major bugs are found, I'll release and update to MTGenerateConfig in a week or so with more patterns....so PLAY!

Also, just because the animation is a round tree...doesn't mean this couldn't be used for arches (hint, hint)....

To Summarise:

Limitations:
1. Limited error checking.
2. equal channel counts if a color is present.
3. probably are some bugs

Upside:
1. Works with any number of channels (up to 30 I Think...if it crashes you've got too many :D)
2. Cut and paste output into Vixen
3. More cooler patterns to come

Enjoy!...

Note: 11/3/09...Updated to fix bug with more than 9 channels...should support up to 30 per color now.

[Macrosill]

survey completed

[tlorek]

After running the config with 12/12/12/12 (white/red/green/blue) I get the two xml files just fine. When I run the MTMakerBeta3.exe I get the FIRST attached .Net Framework error message. If I hit continue, the app opens. However from there, I can't copy and paste anything into Vixen. I can hit copy to clipboard, but when I try to paste into Vixen, nothing.

Also, when I click the "WaxOn WaxOff - White/Blue", I get the second error message.

I believe this app truly shows a lot of potential. Thanks for your efforts!!




Here's a dump from the first .Net message.

See the end of this message for details on invoking
just-in-time (JIT) debugging instead of this dialog box.

************** Exception Text **************
System.IndexOutOfRangeException: Index was outside the bounds of the array.
at TestVMProject.MainForm.MainFormLoad(Object sender, EventArgs e)
at System.EventHandler.Invoke(Object sender, EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Form.OnLoad(EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.Form.OnCreateControl()
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.CreateControl(Boolean fIgnoreVisible)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.CreateControl()
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WmShowWindow(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.ScrollableControl.WndProc(Mes sage& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.ContainerControl.WndProc(Mess age& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Form.WmShowWindow(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Form.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.O nMessage(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.W ndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.NativeWindow.Callback(IntPtr hWnd, Int32 msg, IntPtr wparam, IntPtr lparam)


************** Loaded Assemblies **************
mscorlib
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v2.0.50727/mscorlib.dll
----------------------------------------
TestVMProject
Assembly Version: 1.0.3593.40975
Win32 Version: 1.0.3593.40975
CodeBase: file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/tlorek/Desktop/Xmas/Mega%20Tree%20Maker/V3/MTMakerBeta3.exe
----------------------------------------
Microsoft.VisualBasic
Assembly Version: 8.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 8.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/Microsoft.VisualBasic/8.0.0.0__b03f5f7f11d50a3a/Microsoft.VisualBasic.dll
----------------------------------------
System
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Windows.Forms
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Windows.Forms/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Windows.Forms.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Drawing
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Drawing/2.0.0.0__b03f5f7f11d50a3a/System.Drawing.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Runtime.Remoting
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Runtime.Remoting/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Runtime.Remoting.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Xml
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Xml/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Xml.dll
----------------------------------------

************** JIT Debugging **************
To enable just-in-time (JIT) debugging, the .config file for this
application or computer (machine.config) must have the
jitDebugging value set in the system.windows.forms section.
The application must also be compiled with debugging
enabled.

For example:

<configuration>
<system.windows.forms jitDebugging="true" />
</configuration>

When JIT debugging is enabled, any unhandled exception
will be sent to the JIT debugger registered on the computer
rather than be handled by this dialog box.


Here's the dump from the second message.

See the end of this message for details on invoking
just-in-time (JIT) debugging instead of this dialog box.

************** Exception Text **************
System.IndexOutOfRangeException: Collection index must be in the range 1 to the size of the collection.
at Microsoft.VisualBasic.Collection.IndexCheck(Int32 Index)
at Microsoft.VisualBasic.Collection.get_Item(Int32 Index)
at TestVMProject.MainForm.PatternSelectSelectedIndexC hanged(Object sender, EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.ListBox.OnSelectedIndexChange d(EventArgs e)
at System.Windows.Forms.ListBox.WmReflectCommand(Mess age& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.ListBox.WndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.O nMessage(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.Control.ControlNativeWindow.W ndProc(Message& m)
at System.Windows.Forms.NativeWindow.Callback(IntPtr hWnd, Int32 msg, IntPtr wparam, IntPtr lparam)


************** Loaded Assemblies **************
mscorlib
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v2.0.50727/mscorlib.dll
----------------------------------------
TestVMProject
Assembly Version: 1.0.3593.40975
Win32 Version: 1.0.3593.40975
CodeBase: file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/tlorek/Desktop/Xmas/Mega%20Tree%20Maker/V3/MTMakerBeta3.exe
----------------------------------------
Microsoft.VisualBasic
Assembly Version: 8.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 8.0.50727.42 (RTM.050727-4200)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/Microsoft.VisualBasic/8.0.0.0__b03f5f7f11d50a3a/Microsoft.VisualBasic.dll
----------------------------------------
System
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Windows.Forms
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Windows.Forms/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Windows.Forms.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Drawing
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Drawing/2.0.0.0__b03f5f7f11d50a3a/System.Drawing.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Runtime.Remoting
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Runtime.Remoting/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Runtime.Remoting.dll
----------------------------------------
System.Xml
Assembly Version: 2.0.0.0
Win32 Version: 2.0.50727.832 (QFE.050727-8300)
CodeBase: file:///C:/WINDOWS/assembly/GAC_MSIL/System.Xml/2.0.0.0__b77a5c561934e089/System.Xml.dll
----------------------------------------

************** JIT Debugging **************
To enable just-in-time (JIT) debugging, the .config file for this
application or computer (machine.config) must have the
jitDebugging value set in the system.windows.forms section.
The application must also be compiled with debugging
enabled.

For example:

<configuration>
<system.windows.forms jitDebugging="true" />
</configuration>

When JIT debugging is enabled, any unhandled exception
will be sent to the JIT debugger registered on the computer
rather than be handled by this dialog box.

[dgirard]

After running the config with 12/12/12/12 (white/red/green/blue) I get the two xml files just fine. When I run the MTMakerBeta3.exe I get the FIRST attached .Net Framework error message. If I hit continue, the app opens. However from there, I can't copy and paste anything into Vixen. I can hit copy to clipboard, but when I try to paste into Vixen, nothing.

Also, when I click the "WaxOn WaxOff - White/Blue", I get the second error message.

I believe this app truly shows a lot of potential. Thanks for your efforts!!




Thanks!....Yup!...bug...I have no idea how it worked for me in testing...'cause it fails now...

Anyway, I've patched and updated the download above...

Try it again!

_David

[kostyun]

Downloaded and looks good!!

[tlorek]

Looks good here, too!

Thanks for the quick turnaround. Can't wait to see more!

[WakeFan]

Anyway to get up to 32 channels? I have 32 channels each color :(

Great program. I tried it with the 8 channel setup and like the possibilities.

[Reddy_Kilowatt]

A Very Cool Tool !!! Thanks! :):):)

-Craig

[dgirard]

Anyway to get up to 32 channels? I have 32 channels each color :(

Great program. I tried it with the 8 channel setup and like the possibilities.

Yikes! I had no idea anyone went that far!...

OK, ask and ye shall receive (at least today anyway...)

The limit is now 40 channels....This is Beta 3.2. There's no difference between this one and 3.1, so unless you need 40 channels, feel free to keep using Beta3.1.

NOTICE: MAKE SURE YOU RUN MTGENERATECONFIG.EXE FIRST!...this will create the XML files needed for the main program to run. You only need to do this once to define your configuration.

[lboucher]

Nice program, hope it helps people out. Looks cool. I don't have a mega tree yet, but i am sure this will make it easier once i make one.
Its cool to see people using that windows copy feature, i figured it would help open up vixen to others. I am hoping to get a friend to make up some matlab routines that automatically parse music. (Who know, theoretically ya don't even need vixen since matlab can do serial but that is another matter.

Anyways
I started a Arch Light Sequencer Add In a few months ago, never really finished it. Only "The Wave" effect type works. I think i got most of the error checking working. I don't plan on working this any time soon if at all. To many other things going on. But if you like the idea I will gladly share the source if you wanna incorporate an Arch section into your program to evolve it further.

To use this AddIn, just copy to your Vixen 2.5 AddIn's folder and start vixen.

[lboucher]

Woops forgot file

[dgirard]

Nice program, hope it helps people out. Looks cool. I don't have a mega tree yet, but i am sure this will make it easier once i make one.
Its cool to see people using that windows copy feature, i figured it would help open up vixen to others. I am hoping to get a friend to make up some matlab routines that automatically parse music. (Who know, theoretically ya don't even need vixen since matlab can do serial but that is another matter.

Anyways
I started a Arch Light Sequencer Add In a few months ago, never really finished it. Only "The Wave" effect type works. I think i got most of the error checking working. I don't plan on working this any time soon if at all. To many other things going on. But if you like the idea I will gladly share the source if you wanna incorporate an Arch section into your program to evolve it further.

To use this AddIn, just copy to your Vixen 2.5 AddIn's folder and start vixen.


Thanks for reminding everyone!...it was your app that inspired this one...

I'm still not sure how to make a direct plug-in for vixen...so looking at your code would definately help!...I'm not sure I'll do much before the holidays (I need to get started on my display!:D)...I'd be glad to look at your code and see how I can incorporate it...(with full credit of course)...I'll PM you my email address if you'd like to keep the source off the board here.

Thanks!...you jumped the gun a bit...I was going to ask you about your arch sequencer...


David

[lboucher]

Here ya go. Hope it helps! I won't be working on it any more due to, too many other things going on in life and a new daughter.

Looking forward to seeing future releases!

[WakeFan]

Yikes! I had no idea anyone went that far!...

OK, ask and ye shall receive (at least today anyway...)

The limit is now 40 channels....This is Beta 3.2. There's no difference between this one and 3.1, so unless you need 40 channels, feel free to keep using Beta3.1.

Awesome, thanks!!!

[budude]

I'd be glad to look at your code and see how I can incorporate it...(with full credit of course)...

So - - - got that done yet? :rolleyes:

Was just about to start my arch sequencing so if you could have that done by tomorrow or so that would be great! ;)

[dgirard]

So - - - got that done yet? :rolleyes:

Was just about to start my arch sequencing so if you could have that done by tomorrow or so that would be great! ;)

I'd love to...but don't wait on me for this one LOL!

Feel free to create a one color tree with up to 40 channels and use that...or use the arch program as is...it's not too bad, even if limited...better than having nothing that's for sure!

[lboucher]

So - - - got that done yet? :rolleyes:

Was just about to start my arch sequencing so if you could have that done by tomorrow or so that would be great! ;)

You don't need to wait on the arch section getting incorporated, just download the dll (about 6 post back). If you plop it into the AddIns dirrectory it should work. (Vixen 2.5 only)

[budude]

You don't need to wait on the arch section getting incorporated, just download the dll (about 6 post back). If you plop it into the AddIns dirrectory it should work. (Vixen 2.5 only)

hehe - was just poking some fun at David - he's been pumping out fixes left and right so was kind of kidding him about having this done in no time too! :p

[IdunBenhad]

Hi:
OK, so I'm stupid, but I can't find MT.XML. WHERE IS IT?

Idun

[BF210]

Perhaps you need to run MTGenerateConfig.exe to build your pattern files? This is the (temporary) way to support setting the number of channels needed for your tree.
(yet another Don)

[dgirard]

hehe - was just poking some fun at David - he's been pumping out fixes left and right so was kind of kidding him about having this done in no time too! :p

No problems!....I laughed when I saw your question!...

[dgirard]

Hi:
OK, so I'm stupid, but I can't find MT.XML. WHERE IS IT?

Idun

Yes, as BF10 said...run the config program....it builds both xml files for you...

David

[IdunBenhad]

Hi:
Thanks, guys!! See what old age does to one?

Now, I'm having problems pasting into Vixen. Oh, woe is me, woe is me.

Idun

[IdunBenhad]

Hi:
Ref="Stupid".

Ok, how do I paste from the clipboard into Vixen 2.1?????????????

I've set up the sequence for 8 red, 8 green, 8 white, 8 blue. It apparently generates OK and then I put it in the clipboard. From there things go bad.

I've tried everything I can find. I know the sequence is there, I can see it using Wordpad, but it won't go into Vixen.

HELP!!! And thanks before hand.

IdunBenhad

[dgirard]

Hi:
Ref="Stupid".

Ok, how do I paste from the clipboard into Vixen 2.1?????????????

I've set up the sequence for 8 red, 8 green, 8 white, 8 blue. It apparently generates OK and then I put it in the clipboard. From there things go bad.

I've tried everything I can find. I know the sequence is there, I can see it using Wordpad, but it won't go into Vixen.

HELP!!! And thanks before hand.

IdunBenhad

To paste into Vixen (I think this requires Vixen 2.5.x)....

Select the top left data point of where your pattern should be inserted, and right-click...then select Opaque paste...that'll do it.

I believe this is a feature that was added with version 2.5...(don't know, I've never used anything but 2.5...)

Hope this helps!

[dgirard]

OK everybody...

I've got limited time on my hands right now...I'm heading out of town for work next week, and I've got LOT's of my new display (this is my first year at this) to build -- heck...I've got two Ren24ss's to assemble still--yikes!...I'm bringing them with me to solder in the hotel room!...

So....I can dedicate 1-2 more hours to the MTMaker right now...to add patterns or remove possible limitations...Further enhancements will likely have to wait until December...

Given all this...if there's a pattern you REALLY MUST HAVE, describe it here (ideally with a name, description, and a pattern layout like described on landolights.com-- http://www.landolights.com/main/content/view/82/39/ and I'll pick the ones I like best and add them as time permits (hey, I wrote the program, right? :D)....if it's a pattern already described on landolights, just let me know and I'll add it to the list.

Please also indicate if it's mono-chrome, or multi-color.

Again, I can't promise to create every pattern (or any patterns), but I will kick another hour or two into this next week.

I've got grand plans for pattern generation which anyone will be able to do, but that will have to wait for xmas 2010.

_David

[IdunBenhad]

Hi:
Thanks to all who helped me in my senior moment flareups.

Got it working by changing to Vixen 2.5.0.6.

Thanks, again. I'm off to my corner in the back of the motorhome.

Idun

[dirknerkle]

I still need it to be able to make the parts, assemble them, install itself, hang its own lights and sequence itself. Oh, and make toast, too. :shock:

[John Benedict]

Well I don't know if you need to do this one NOW but I HOPE it will be a cool effect as I have spent about 3 hours trying to figure it out.

3 colors, 16 channels each, interleaved, ie b,g,w.

Lighting half the tree blue and half green and then advancing the channels to create the effect of the two halves rotating. Sounds easy huh? I been through a half a bottle of wine before I got it to look right. The devil for me was in the repeat and then to incorporate the white into the spin and fade the other color? Threw away the cork to the wine at that point as I didn't see a need for it afterwards. For now I stayed with just the two colors.

[dgirard]

I still need it to be able to make the parts, assemble them, install itself, hang its own lights and sequence itself. Oh, and make toast, too. :shock:

Yea...as I'm knee deep in making super-strands for my mega tree I'm with you there...unfortunately, I've not been able to come up with any code which can tighten zip-ties...

although...

I do have that Vex robotics kit on the shelf over there.....wonder if I can get a micro-controller to drive it's remote......hmmmmmmmmmmmmm

[dgirard]

Well I don't know if you need to do this one NOW but I HOPE it will be a cool effect as I have spent about 3 hours trying to figure it out.

3 colors, 16 channels each, interleaved, ie b,g,w.

Lighting half the tree blue and half green and then advancing the channels to create the effect of the two halves rotating. Sounds easy huh? I been through a half a bottle of wine before I got it to look right. The devil for me was in the repeat and then to incorporate the white into the spin and fade the other color? Threw away the cork to the wine at that point as I didn't see a need for it afterwards. For now I stayed with just the two colors.

OK...to make sure I've got this...you want basically a Ying/yang with two colors (not white)...and the white to do something over top of it?

I think this will be pretty easy....although you'll have to do it in stages...I'll put together the ying/yang as a new pattern, then you can make a white pattern of your choice and use the transparent paste to add it over top of your 2 color rotate...

The code's not really built for multi-stage patterns (yet, wait for 2010 for that ;)) ...so you'll have to build them on your own using the opaque and transparent pastes with vixen...

I'll build the ying-yang next (probably tomorrow...but no promises)...


now where's that Vex remote....

-David

[John Benedict]

OK...to make sure I've got this...you want basically a Ying/yang with two colors (not white)...and the white to do something over top of it?

I think this will be pretty easy....although you'll have to do it in stages...I'll put together the ying/yang as a new pattern, then you can make a white pattern of your choice and use the transparent paste to add it over top of your 2 color rotate...

The code's not really built for multi-stage patterns (yet, wait for 2010 for that ;)) ...so you'll have to build them on your own using the opaque and transparent pastes with vixen...

I'll build the ying-yang next (probably tomorrow...but no promises)...


now where's that Vex remote....

-David

You have it right-a ying yang. The white was just a transition from one of the other colors. Example as the blue advances it goes out and the white advances into the position as the new ying. But hey a two color is still VERY appreciated! WOW

[dirknerkle]

You have it right-a ying yang.

Minor correction... it's a Yin Yang. It's a Chinese Tai-Chi symbol of unity and duality. But there's only one 'g'.

Conversely, a Ying Yang is slang for an inept person.

(my Asian children set me straight on this a long time ago...) ;)

[dgirard]

Minor correction... it's a Yin Yang. It's a Chinese Tai-Chi symbol of unity and duality. But there's only one 'g'.

Conversely, a Ying Yang is slang for an inept person.

(my Asian children set me straight on this a long time ago...) ;)

Obviously... :D


Here's 1.1 of the config maker with the new color patterns...

[IdunBenhad]

Hi:
Oboy, I think I found another problem. Version 3.2b--Vixen 2.5.0.7. If I generate a 32 channel pattern;

8-White
8-Red
8-Green
8-Blue
Interleaved colors.

The blue does not show up in the display and only 30 channels in the sequence itself, and always starts at channel 3 when pasting into Vixen.


It seems I read something about this earlier, but I can't seem to find it now.

Thanks

Idun

[dgirard]

Hi:
Oboy, I think I found another problem. Version 3.2b--Vixen 2.5.0.7. If I generate a 32 channel pattern;

8-White
8-Red
8-Green
8-Blue
Interleaved colors.

The blue does not show up in the display and only 30 channels in the sequence itself.

The Blue channels never show up in the xml listing.

It seems I read something about this earlier, but I can't seem to find it now.

Thanks

Idun


Make sure it's Beta3.2 you're running...it's the one posted in post #29 above...

I just tested and I get 32 channels output when I select the white/blue pattern (yea, I know there's only one right now)...you can confirm by pasting the clipboard output into notepad (or ultraedit?)..and counting the lines (turn word-wrap off if you've got it on)...there's one line per channel.

Yes, I know there's no animation for either blue or multi right now...just white, red, and green....sorry, I might not have mentioned that...it's just a limit in the animation module though...output should still be ok.

Let me know if it's still not working for you...

[John Benedict]

Just an update on the Yin Yang I requested. AWSOME! Thanks for getting that in there as it really made mine easier to do. There is a small glitch on the repeat when just spinning. You have to add 2 cloumns at the repeat and remove 6 squares right after it on top. But hey that was easy. Thanks again!

[dgirard]

Just an update on the Yin Yang I requested. AWSOME! Thanks for getting that in there as it really made mine easier to do. There is a small glitch on the repeat when just spinning. You have to add 2 cloumns at the repeat and remove 6 squares right after it on top. But hey that was easy. Thanks again!

Glad it worked for you!

I'm knee deep in trying to pull everything *else* together...LOL...I'll come back to this after everything is done...so probably for 2010...

[scottmcm]

I really would love to use this tool but I don't seem to be able to get it to work. I have .net 3.5, MTMaker3.1 and MTGenerateConfig1.1. I run generate, enter zeros for all the colors except green where I enter 16. Click go and it pops up saying ready to go. I then load maker and get nothing. The black preview circle is blank and when I hit the button to copy to clipboard I get nothing on the paste into Vixen. Since the preview shows nothing I doubted that anything was even going to the clipboard so I tried pasting into notepad and I get one, single "0".

What am I doing wrong?

Nevermind, I figured it out. If only using one color it needs to be white. Then all works fine. Awesome tool!

Thanks!

[dgirard]

I really would love to use this tool but I don't seem to be able to get it to work. I have .net 3.5, MTMaker3.1 and MTGenerateConfig1.1. I run generate, enter zeros for all the colors except green where I enter 16. Click go and it pops up saying ready to go. I then load maker and get nothing. The black preview circle is blank and when I hit the button to copy to clipboard I get nothing on the paste into Vixen. Since the preview shows nothing I doubted that anything was even going to the clipboard so I tried pasting into notepad and I get one, single "0".

What am I doing wrong?

Thanks!

Don't think you're doing anything wrong per-say...but I think we've found another limitation of my code...I assumed everyone would have at least white....

Try using white as your single color....instead of using green in the configuration maker....

The visualizer will show the pattern in white, but it really just creates an export for the clipboard, so you can paste it onto your green channels in your sequence....

[dgirard]

OK, here goes...

I've had a few questions from folks who are not using white in their setup...so I've updated the program to handle this...it also builds MANY more multi-color patterns (the same patterns, but built for each color combo)...

Again, no warranties...keep the copy you've got until to determine if this one works for you...

NOTE: There's no multi-color represented in the animation, but it will output...

If it blows up, it's probably because you have too many channels :D

I uploaded it to the FIRST post on this thread...to help make it easier to find...so go up to the top and download it already!...

Anyway, enjoy.

David

[zaker]

Wanted to try your calculator, but it won't generate the config file for my setup properly.

Run mtgenerateconfig3.4, I enter 10 for red and 10 for green, all others 0, select interleave, then Go. It doesn't put ANY channels into the mtchannels.xml file. Using the same numbers, if I select Group, the XML file has 10 red channels, no green.

I'm going to manually create the file to give it a try, but it looks like a timesaver to me!!

Thanks
Tom

[random_rodder]

Wanted to try your calculator, but it won't generate the config file for my setup properly.

Run mtgenerateconfig3.4, I enter 10 for red and 10 for green, all others 0, select interleave, then Go. It doesn't put ANY channels into the mtchannels.xml file. Using the same numbers, if I select Group, the XML file has 10 red channels, no green.

I'm going to manually create the file to give it a try, but it looks like a timesaver to me!!

Thanks
Tom

I have the exact same problem, except I'm using 8 red and 8 green. The mtchannels.xml file is essentially blank. It's weird because it works fine on my PC at work, which is virtually identical to this one at home, with the exception of the video card - and I seriously doubt that's the problem...

_______


EDIT:

I've tried it a couple different ways. If I use 8 White, Red & Green, it generates the file. If I then go back and try it with just 8 Red & Green, only the Red get created....

[Trip]

I'm running beta3.2 and config1.1 and I am not getting the new patterns when I run the config. Tried deleting the folder and starting over, still not getting any new patterns, just the same ones from post 29 config file.

[dgirard]

It would help if I used the right loop counters...and if I actually tested ... ;-}

Anyway...I think I've fixed the bugs....new release up in post #1...

If you still are having problems, please post what entries you're feeding into the config maker program

(ie,
white=8
red=8
green=0
multi=8
blue=29
)

Thanks, and good luck!

David

[bobkeyes]

David,

What a fantastic program!

The Multi doesn't seem to function, or at least I can't see it.

white-8
red-8
green-8
blue-8
multi-8

Thanks for all your hard work.

[dgirard]

David,

What a fantastic program!

The Multi doesn't seem to function, or at least I can't see it.

white-8
red-8
green-8
blue-8
multi-8

Thanks for all your hard work.

That's correct...the multi doesn't show on the animation sample...but it should still output on the cut/paste function...give it a try and let me know...

[random_rodder]

COOL!!! Great tool, will help shorten sequencing time for future generations!!! Okay, maybe for this generation as well :D.

Thanks a lot, it really is a great tool.



Brian

[dgirard]

COOL!!! Great tool, will help shorten sequencing time for future generations!!! Okay, maybe for this generation as well :D.

Thanks a lot, it really is a great tool.



Brian

Thanks!...I appreciate the feedback!.

I wrote the tool for me, and thought I'd share it...not bad considering this is the first code I've written in about 10 years.... ;-}

Enjoy!
David

[Blackbeard]

Just to clarify, this all only works for Vixen 2.5+???

steve

[dirknerkle]

Just to clarify, this all only works for Vixen 2.5+???

steve

For some, the word "works" and "2.5+" should not be included in the same sentence. Yes, the megatreemaker was designed for 2.5, but 2.5x is still considered "beta" software, so don't put your expectations at the top of the list.

The megatreemaker is a nifty tool, but you can expect that 2.5 will give you some challenges from time to time... :-? After all, by using it, YOU become a software tester!

[dgirard]

For some, the word "works" and "2.5+" should not be included in the same sentence. Yes, the megatreemaker was designed for 2.5, but 2.5x is still considered "beta" software, so don't put your expectations at the top of the list.

The megatreemaker is a nifty tool, but you can expect that 2.5 will give you some challenges from time to time... :-? After all, by using it, YOU become a software tester!

YEs...only "works" with Vix 2.5....the reason for this is that the clipboard paste feature only exists in 2.5....which is what I use...

FWIW I've been using 2.5 (I never used 2.1 or older since this is my first year at this...), and while it's a bit quirky (not sure if the quirks are because of beta, or if it's always been that way...)....it's been stable and OK for me.

[dirknerkle]

YEs...only "works" with Vix 2.5....the reason for this is that the clipboard paste feature only exists in 2.5....which is what I use...

FWIW I've been using 2.5 (I never used 2.1 or older since this is my first year at this...), and while it's a bit quirky (not sure if the quirks are because of beta, or if it's always been that way...)....it's been stable and OK for me.

I'm with you, dgirard! I'm using 2.1 for my show this year and only recently installed, converted and tested my 2009 sequences in the 2.5.0.8 version -- on a different machine (actually, Win7). I had no problems, everything seems to me to work virtually the same as it did in 2.1, and I think you're probably right in calling them "quirks" instead of perhaps "bugs." I generally don't load up computers with a lot of other apps though -- they're very clean. I have NO GAMES anywhere, and consequently I have very, very few computing problems, ever. (My kids, however, are always asking me to help them rebuild their PCs after some app they downloaded 'crashed' their pc... sheesh...)

I haven't tried your megatreemaker yet because all I've done is some cursory experimentation with 2.5.0.8 in an effort to compare it with 2.1, feature-for-feature. That said, I greatly admire what you've done and especially how responsive you've been to those who've made suggestions and requests for various features, and I'm sure I'll enjoy using your cool tool when the time comes. Thanks for creating and sharing it with DIYC!

Merry Christmas!

-dave

[egaadz]

OH WOW is this thing great. Once you get your 'ticks per event' figured out, this thing really cuts "pattern time" in half. Since I have several elements in groups (like random candycanes), you can just paste patterns in there, and they look great, and in beat with the music.
Nice tool Dave!! Thanks

- Roger

[Blackbeard]

So is there a "work-around" to using this in some way with Vixen 2.1? Sure would be great if 2.1 could add the clipboard feature, but I'm not sure it's still be developed, and not just being bug-fixed. For me, it'd sorta be like starting over if I converted to 2.5. I didn't get my display up this year, and I would really like to start working on 2010. I can still have both versions of Vixen on my machine, though, I think????

steve

[RichF]

Yes use mega tree maker in vixen 2.5 then open your 2.5 sequence in 2.1 and copy what you have created. Or just convert to 2.5 I believe it is stable enough now and if not KC will have it working smoothly by the 2010 Christmas season.

[Blackbeard]

All for not, it seems. Net 3.5 does not install on Win 2K. But I should be able to do some of this at work and copy from there to here. Just need to keep things synced.

Thanks for the app.

steve

[Blackbeard]

To use this AddIn, just copy to your Vixen 2.5 AddIn's folder and start vixen.

I just noticed I don't have an AddIn folder under my 2.5 Vixen. Where should it be?

[Blackbeard]

Never mind, I found it. I was looking through the MyDocuments for the whereabouts. Never thought to look where the executable was.

[Blackbeard]

Announcing Beta1: MegaTreeMaker

Just in time for last minute vixen sequencing!

Purpose of this application:
This application will generate multi-channel, multi-color pattern sequences for use in MegaTree (and other) sequencing, and paste them to the clipboard for insertion into your Vixen 2.5+ sequence.

The primary objective in creating these sequences was to make them highly “musical”. There’s nothing (ok, almost nothing) cooler than a megatree that sequences exactly to the beat of the music. With current cut/paste operations, it’s difficult to re-use existing sequences as every song has a different BPM (Beat per Minute) This app solves that problem!

Beta1 Limitations: (what?, it’s not perfect?)
1. There is no error checking on values entered, or on configuration file reading…don’t be surprised by exception errors!
2. There's a limit to the number of channels...if it crashes, you've probably entered too many...try doing fewer colors...
3. The patterns output are dependant on the color choices entered in the config program
4. The transitions between iterations are not perfect at this time, you may need to do a bit of clean up...


Features:
1. Patterns are defined in an XML configuration file. Feel free to add more and send them to me!
2. Patterns are graphically illustrated and also include a text description. (Note: the "Multi" color is not illustrated at this time, but it is output if you've got them)
3. “Beat” measurement can be input in either ticks (if you’ve calculated yourself), or by a direct BPM measurement. If you know the BPM of a song, use that for a more accurate representation…or run your audio file through software to determine it’s BPM (There’s several FREE options for this).
4. Inverted patterns are as simple as one click!
5. Able to specify what value to use for “full on” or “full Off” to create interesting effects.
6. Use the "iterations" field to define how many times you'd like a given pattern to repeat.

To use:
Simply copy the application and the MT.XML file to the same folder on your machine, and run!...it runs independently of Vixen at this time, but you can paste it’s output into Vixen very easily.

This app is written using .NET 3.5. You must have this installed prior to running this app.

Special thanks to Mike over at landolights.com for letting me use his pattern layouts, names and descriptions to get started!

Fire it up and let me know what you think!!!

Most recent BETA attached to THIS POST!

I'm trying to download this zip file onto a new computer, but all I get is the image. Is it my browser (tried both Firefox and IE) or has the file been removed? I'm not sure I've got the latest elsewhere.

[Skunberg]

Your correct the file is missing. Can't tell you where it is. PM Brian sysop head guy in charge.

[dirknerkle]

You mean, all this does is calculate the tree? It doesn't assemble it and put it up??? :lol:

[Blackbeard]

Your correct the file is missing. Can't tell you where it is. PM Brian sysop head guy in charge.

I don't really know who Brian is, and the forum leaders doesn't give me any clues, so if Brian is watching, can you maybe look into this, please?

[mlkren]

Brian is the administrator of the website, you can PM him here (http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=2).

[dpitts]

Blackbeard,
I am in need of the file also. Could you make it available to me somehow? Thanks.

Never mind, I found it. I was looking through the MyDocuments for the whereabouts. Never thought to look where the executable was.

[kkmm]

Can not get any of the files to download except for the arch one

Cheers

[leroylee13]

I can not get the zip file to download. Is there another location, or does anyone have a copy of the files that can send to me?

[maffeirw]

I have a copy of the mtmaker3.4.1.zip file and after using the config maker section which is included, it worked under 2.5 with no problem. As I am using 2.1 it does me little good but I'm a packrat and rarely get rid of anything. I have sent dgirard an email asking for permission to repost this file to this thread and I am awaiting his reply.

[dgirard]

Sorry all...if you've got it, go ahead and repost...If I find it, I'll also repost...no worrys about it.

I've not touched the code since 3.4.1, so that's the latest...and before the swarm of questions again, it only works with 2.5 (it relies on the clipboard cut/paste functionality)...if you want to use it with 2.1 you need to figure out how to paste into 2.5, then convert your sequence back down to 2.1...

Enjoy!
David

[Skunberg]

May I suggest posting it into the file library with a reference to it in this thread.

Brian

[maffeirw]

Sorry all...if you've got it, go ahead and repost...If I find it, I'll also repost...no worrys about it.

I've not touched the code since 3.4.1, so that's the latest...and before the swarm of questions again, it only works with 2.5 (it relies on the clipboard cut/paste functionality)...if you want to use it with 2.1 you need to figure out how to paste into 2.5, then convert your sequence back down to 2.1...

Enjoy!
David

As suggested I put the zip file in the library under Other (no appropriate Vixen Category yet) under the title:

megatree maker v 3.4.1 for Vixen 2.5

had problems attaching them here but it seemed to work in the library. - enjoy

[rbuentello]

I have a 98 channel tree. 2 Colors. White and multi. 48/48 on tree and 1/1 on tree topper. How can I get the program to accept 48 channels for two colors?

[cretx]

can anyone send me the mtmaker3.4.1.zip file? Seems the library is down and I cant find a working link for this.

[fathead45]

shoot me a email and i can send it matt @ schoolhouseelectronics.com

[holtzj]

I'm having trouble coping the data from mtmaker to vixen. Cut and paste like the docs talked about doesn't work for me. I looked for a way to paste into vixen and I was not able to do so.
I came up with a work around that works but, is a little of a pain in the neck.
Create a routine in vixen and open the file with a text editor. Paste the results from mt maker into the file(replace the "," with " "(space) and put a space at the end of each line. Also make sure the end of the file has a blank line. save the file as a .vir file and check that it works in vixen.

[holtzj]

Here is a copy of the megatree maker that I have.

[ukewarrior]

I can't get this to upload by clicking?
Can you PM me so I can send you my email?
thanks.

Here is a copy of the megatree maker that I have.

[fathead45]

here ya go, i hope this works so you guys can get it. my email has been flakey

[fslopez1950]

Still can get to download the zip file, used Chrome, IE, Firefox. Need help.........

[budude]

Yeah - it's hosed alright - whoever has a good copy - try uploading with a different file name.

[KeithTarpley]

Greetings,,,

Test of upload.

Keith

[KeithTarpley]

Greetings,,,

Uploading zip file with txt extension to try.

keith

[fslopez1950]

Still a no go for me. Thanks for trying.

[maffeirw]

I thought I'd give it a try. Sometimes the extra dots in a file name causes problems so I replaced them with underscores.

[ukewarrior]

Didn't work for me.

PM me, I'll send you my email, and I'll load it in the wiki.

I thought I'd give it a try. Sometimes the extra dots in a file name causes problems so I replaced them with underscores.

[scottmcm]

I thought I would give this a try. I don't have the original ZIP file but I had the contents extracted and put them into a new ZIP file. Maybe this will work for you.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/34187662/MTM/MTM.zip

[ukewarrior]

YES !
Thanks.
That worked great.


I thought I would give this a try. I don't have the original ZIP file but I had the contents extracted and put them into a new ZIP file. Maybe this will work for you.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/34187662/MTM/MTM.zip

[Wombat]

It works but it only works to the maximum of 30 strings :(

I have pixels which I was hoping to use it to create some single channel effects in the strings. i.e. use one colour and then paste in and this will make different effects in the pixel strings.

any chance that you can make it work with higher channel counts? I need at least 42 channels per colour.

Also I found that if you put 0 in the first channel i.e. White the other channels would not show up and it would not generate any configs.

Nice if I can get it to work. I might have to try with half and double it up to test

Wombat

[fslopez1950]

I thought I would give this a try. I don't have the original ZIP file but I had the contents extracted and put them into a new ZIP file. Maybe this will work for you.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/34187662/MTM/MTM.zip

Thank you very much. Downloaded the file and finally I can play with it.

[zaker]

Try this copy gang. Original file I download from here.

[budude]

Try this copy gang. Original file I download from here.

nope - the previous one by scottmcm is good...

[Macrosill]

This is a test

[popcorn]

I know it has been several years, but I was wondering if this software is still available? The link above appears to be dead.

Bob

[Xenia]

Popcorn,

The link in post #106 just worked for me.

[popcorn]

Thanks. Either the network was acting up or my browser had a problem. In either case, I just tried again and it worked.