Loader Construction Kit: Difference between revisions

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#REDIRECT [[Loader Construction Kit/fr]]
  
  +
----------------------------
  +
--- USER MANUAL ---
  +
----------------------------
  +
  +
**************************************************************************
  +
  +
  +
  +
L O A D E R C O N S T R U C T I O N K I T
  +
-------------------------------------------------
  +
Version 1.93F (French)
  +
  +
  +
Developed and programmed
  +
by
  +
GRANDHOMME André
  +
  +
**************************************************************************
  +
  +
  +
Throughout this manual, it is assumed that you are proficient in
  +
using your computer, including mouse operation, icon management,
  +
drop-down menus, and the GEM environment.
  +
  +
If this is not the case, we strongly advise you to carefully read
  +
the manual that comes with your ATARI computer.
  +
  +
  +
*************************************************************************
  +
APPENDIX
  +
LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT DISK
  +
*************************************************************************
  +
  +
To save space, some files on the LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT disk are compressed.
  +
  +
Here are various instructions to decompress them. These files are
  +
self-extracting with the extension (.TOS).
  +
  +
Please follow the instructions in order.
  +
  +
The original disk should always remain write-protected to avoid
  +
any mishandling.
  +
  +
DECOMPRESSING .TOS FILES:
  +
  +
Disk (A) is the original Loader Construction Kit disk.
  +
Disk (B) is your freshly formatted blank disk.
  +
  +
  +
1) Format a blank double-sided disk (Disk B).
  +
  +
2) Copy the EXEMPLES.TOS file from the original disk (Disk A)
  +
onto your freshly formatted disk (Disk B).
  +
  +
3) Double-click on the EXEMPLES.TOS file (Disk B).
  +
All folders and annexed files will then decompress.
  +
  +
4) Delete the EXEMPLES.TOS file from Disk B.
  +
  +
5) You can now open the EXEMPLES.LCK folder to view
  +
all the decompressed files (Extension .LCK).
  +
  +
  +
Repeat the same operations for the files CHIP.TOS, TRACK.TOS,
  +
DESSINS.TOS, and FONTES.TOS.
  +
  +
  +
**************************************************************************
  +
  +
  +
A FEW WORDS FROM THE AUTHORS....
  +
  +
Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of the LOADER
  +
CONSTRUCTION KIT. Every effort has been made to make this
  +
software a premium product.
  +
  +
We hope it will meet all your expectations.
  +
  +
  +
The Authors
  +
  +
  +
  +
  +
  +
*************************************************************************
  +
--- TABLE OF CONTENTS ---
  +
**************************************************************************
  +
  +
CHAPTER I: OVERVIEW
  +
  +
- Warning page..
  +
- Installation page..
  +
- Protection page..
  +
- Introduction page..
  +
  +
CHAPTER II: USING THE LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT.
  +
  +
- Description of drop-down menus page ..
  +
- Saving your work page ..
  +
- List of names page ..
  +
- Managing the background image page ..
  +
- Touch-ups page ..
  +
- Graphic effects page ..
  +
- Scrolling page ..
  +
- Music page ..
  +
- Program compressor page ..
  +
- Passive test of loader page ..
  +
  +
CONCLUSION:
  +
  +
KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS:
  +
  +
  +
  +
**************************************************************************
  +
  +
CHAPTER I
  +
  +
OVERVIEW
  +
*************************************************************************
  +
  +
  +
WARNING:
  +
  +
Any reproduction or copying by any means must be distributed for free.
  +
  +
It may not be altered, either completely or partially, nor any other files linked to it.
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
INSTALLATION:
  +
  +
The disk is not copy-protected. However, before you start working with the Loader Construction Kit, we recommend making a copy of the original and then storing it safely.
  +
Use the copy disk for all your operations.
  +
  +
This software is designed to be used under GEM and in medium
  +
resolution on your Atari ST. If you try to load the program
  +
in low or high resolution, you will get a message indicating that
  +
this cannot be done.
  +
  +
It works on all ATARI ST compatible computers, such as the ST, STF, STE, MEGA STF & MEGA STE, and can be
  +
installed and used on your hard drive if you wish.
  +
  +
  +
CAUTION: For optimal use, it is preferable to use
  +
the program Loader Construction Kit on a computer
  +
with at least 1 Mega of RAM and equipped with a
  +
Blitter.
  +
  +
520 ST owners (512KB memory) must have a minimum of desktop accessories (see none...) to
  +
save as much memory as possible.
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
PROTECTION:
  +
  +
The LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT software, however, is protected by logical
  +
protection.
  +
  +
Before each use, the program will ask you to enter a series of 3 colors located on a grid supplied with the software.
  +
  +
You will then be given a code corresponding to the abscissa and ordinate
  +
of one of the cells on this grid (a letter + a number). Use your
  +
computer's mouse and click on the chosen color from among the
  +
9 options to validate your response.
  +
This operation must be repeated 3 times to define your
  +
color series.
  +
  +
If you do not enter the correct color series, the software will automatically return to the GEM desktop without launching.
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
INTRODUCTION :
  +
  +
* LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT is a loader creation software.
  +
(In English: Selection and loading menu.)
  +
  +
It allows, without any knowledge of computer programming,
  +
the creation of an executable file integrating: music,
  +
text scrolling, background image, graphic effects, etc.
  +
  +
  +
This allows you to personalize your demos, recreational or professional applications, advertisements, or to grant access to the computing world to any novice person from 5 to 77 years old...!!
  +
  +
Moreover, its extreme ease of use will enable you to design your projects in record time, with your talent as the only limit.
  +
  +
*************************************************************************
  +
  +
CHAPTER II
  +
  +
USING THE LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT
  +
  +
*************************************************************************
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
DESCRIPTION OF DROP-DOWN MENUS
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
* The Loader Construction Kit uses the GEM interface of your ATARI ST
  +
in medium resolution. It is operated entirely with the mouse
  +
or keyboard shortcuts.
  +
  +
  +
ABOUT THE LCK MENU:
  +
  +
This option provides different information; the program version number, the publisher's contact details,
  +
the authors' names, etc.
  +
  +
FILES MENU:
  +
  +
In this drop-down menu, you have access to a series of
  +
file management functions.
  +
  +
NEW - Resets all variables..
  +
LOAD.LCK - Load a .LCK file (F1)
  +
SAVE.LCK - Save a .LCK file (F2)
  +
TEST.LCK - Test the operation of your loader (simulation..)
  +
COMPILE LOADER - Creation of a LOADER.PRG on the disk..
  +
  +
DELETE FILE - Delete a file on disk.
  +
RENAME FILE - Rename a file on disk.
  +
CREATE FOLDER - Creation of a new folder on disk.
  +
  +
EXIT LCK - Exit the Loader Construction Kit program
  +
and return to GEM.
  +
  +
  +
OPTIONS MENU:
  +
  +
SELECT DRIVE: - Choice of the active floppy drive or hard drive.
  +
  +
DISK INFO: - Clicking on the A or B icon, you get the available space
  +
on your floppy disk.
  +
It also provides various other information,
  +
such as the type of floppy disk, the number of sides, and
  +
tracks, etc.
  +
  +
- Clicking on the BOOT SPY option, you can test for
  +
the presence of a virus on the floppy disk.
  +
  +
CAUTION: Do not use this option on original
  +
floppy disks.
  +
  +
  +
FORMAT: - This option gives you a disk formatter.
  +
The formatting performed is the same as that under the
  +
GEM desktop of your ATARI
  +
  +
EXECUTE .PRG: - This option allows you to run another program
  +
while remaining under the control of the LOADER CONSTRUCTION
  +
KIT.
  +
- You must have at least one mega of RAM
  +
to use this option..
  +
  +
  +
BACKGROUND IMAGE MENU:
  +
  +
  +
LOAD .P?1: Loading an image in Degas Elite format
  +
(PI1 & PC1)
  +
  +
LOAD .NEO: Loading an image in Neochrome format
  +
  +
SAVE .PI1: Save an image in Degas Elite format (.PI1)
  +
  +
SAVE .NEO: Save an image in Neochrome format (.NEO)
  +
  +
  +
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
SAVING YOUR WORK
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
SAVING:
  +
  +
In order to retain your creations, it is imperative to
  +
save them on a floppy disk or hard drive.
  +
To do this, use the option SAVE .LCK from the FILES Menu, or
  +
press the FUNCTION KEY F2
  +
  +
The extension (.LCK) will be automatically added by the program
  +
with each save.
  +
  +
  +
PS: For protection, if a file with the same
  +
name already exists, a (.BAK) file is automatically created .
  +
  +
So watch out for the free space on your floppy disk...!
  +
  +
  +
LOADING:
  +
  +
Of course, you can subsequently reload your creations
  +
by using the LOAD .LCK option from the FILES Menu, or press
  +
the FUNCTION KEY F1
  +
  +
  +
COMPILATION:
  +
  +
After finishing your LOADER, you can save it as
  +
an executable program directly under the GEM desktop.
  +
  +
To do this, use the option COMPILE LOADER from the drop-down
  +
menu and follow the program's instructions.
  +
  +
After compiling, do not change the name of the executable file
  +
created by the program (LOADER.PRG). This would cause an error
  +
when launching it...
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
LIST OF NAMES
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
CREATION OF THE LIST OF NAMES:
  +
  +
* Click on the NAME icon or press the function key F3
  +
to access the dialogue box.
  +
  +
This option allows you to define the list of NAMES for
  +
EXECUTABLE PROGRAMS that you want to load through
  +
your LOADER.
  +
  +
The maximum number of these programs is 18, but you can
  +
increase this limit by chaining multiple loaders together.
  +
  +
  +
* To create your loader, you must define the NAMES of the EXECUTABLE PROGRAMS to be launched and the KEYS assigned to them.
  +
  +
For this, use your mouse and proceed as follows:
  +
  +
- Click on the PRG №1 box
  +
  +
- The GEM file selector appears,
  +
then click on the chosen FILE (executable..!).
  +
  +
- The program then asks you to hit the KEY
  +
associated with this FILE.
  +
  +
- Return to the main dialogue box where the File Name and the Keyboard Code of the key are displayed.
  +
  +
- Proceed in the same way for all programs
  +
to create your list.
  +
  +
  +
*****************
  +
>>> ATTENTION <<<
  +
*****************
  +
  +
* Each Program to be launched must be located in the same DIRECTORY
  +
as the LOADER.PRG file on your Floppy Disk or hard drive.
  +
  +
* For the LOADER to launch a Program under GEM, it must not be
  +
compiled in an AUTO folder.
  +
  +
* If the programs to be launched are COMPRESSED, there may be
  +
conflicts with the LOADER and memory.(Run TESTS...!)
  +
  +
* Avoid mixing programs that operate at different resolutions (Low or Medium) in your list.
  +
  +
* If you have decided to compile your LOADER in an AUTO folder,
  +
the programs in your list must be located at the root of the directory on your floppy disk.
  +
  +
These must not call GEM and must operate
  +
in LOW RESOLUTION.
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
MANAGING THE BACKGROUND IMAGE
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
To load or save a background image, click on the IMAGE icon or press the function key F3.
  +
You can also use the BACKGROUND IMAGE drop-down menu.
  +
  +
  +
LOAD BACKGROUND IMAGE: ( Load .P?1 or Load .NEO )
  +
  +
- This option allows you to load an image into your computer's memory (the background image) which will later serve as a graphic backdrop for your loader.
  +
  +
The LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT can load images of the Degas Elite type (extension .PI1 or .PC1), or Neochrome type (extension .NEO),
  +
these three file formats being the most common in the ST-compatible computer world.
  +
  +
After each read, the program displays the image that has just been loaded; click the right mouse button to
  +
return to the main screen.
  +
  +
  +
  +
SAVE BACKGROUND IMAGE: ( Save .PI1 or Save .NEO )
  +
  +
This option allows saving the background image stored in your computer's memory. The LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT can save this image in Degas (.PI1) or Neochrome (.NEO) formats.
  +
  +
( the program will automatically add the extension of the chosen image format with each save )
  +
  +
  +
  +
VIEW BACKGROUND IMAGE: ( View Image or Function Key F3 )
  +
  +
- This option allows you to view the background image stored in your computer's memory at any time.
  +
  +
After viewing it, click the right mouse button to
  +
return to the main screen.
  +
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
TOUCH-UPS
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
Click on the DRAWING icon or press the function key F5 to
  +
access the dialogue box.
  +
  +
- This option allows you to load your drawing program directly within the Loader Construction Kit to make touch-ups to your various graphics.
  +
  +
- You will then be asked to specify the desired resolution to launch your drawing program.
  +
Since some software uses GEM, despite a usage in LOW resolution, the benefit of MEDIUM
  +
resolution is highly appreciable.
  +
(Example: Neochrome...)
  +
  +
CAUTION: It is strongly recommended to have a computer
  +
with at least one mega of RAM to use
  +
this option.
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
GRAPHIC EFFECTS
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
Click on the EFFECTS icon or press the function key F6 to access the graphic effects definition screen.
  +
  +
- This option gives you the possibility to combine various foreground and background effects for your background image.
  +
You have 6 types of appearance effects and as many for disappearance.
  +
  +
- The selection of such effects is done through icons represented by a drawing.
  +
  +
Click on the desired effect, then on TEST to preview your choice.
  +
  +
- After viewing the effect, click the right mouse button to
  +
return to the dialogue box.
  +
  +
- To have no appearance or disappearance effects, select
  +
the NORMAL option in the dialogue box.
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
SCROLLING
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
Click on the SCROLLS icon or press the function key F7
  +
to access the scrolling definition screen.
  +
  +
You can define vertical scrolling of a maximum height of 33
  +
pixels.
  +
  +
  +
TEXT
  +
- First, enter the text of your scrolling,
  +
click on the WRITE TEXT button.
  +
  +
- The text editor box then appears:
  +
(with the ASCII order of authorized characters..)
  +
  +
- Then just type your text.
  +
The maximum size of your text is 720 characters.
  +
The ESC key allows you to erase the line where
  +
the cursor is located.
  +
  +
* You also have the options LOAD, SAVE, and
  +
DELETE (Extension: .TXT )
  +
  +
FONT:
  +
- You must have loaded the image containing
  +
the objects to be scrolled into the buffer:
  +
These objects will most often be text font drawings, but it is not forbidden to scroll mountains, clouds, etc.
  +
  +
- To load your font image into memory, use
  +
the option LOAD FONTS. (Extension .PI1, .PC1 or .NEO)
  +
After loading, your image will automatically be previewed.
  +
  +
Click the right mouse button to return to
  +
the dialogue box.
  +
  +
- Then you can save, in the Degas format, the
  +
same image using the option SAVE FONTS.
  +
  +
- The save format of this option is different
  +
from the standard DEGAS format, in that the size of the fonts
  +
(size defined by the HEIGHT and WIDTH parameters)
  +
is saved along with the image.
  +
  +
This facilitates the use of your fonts while remaining
  +
compatible with all drawing software.
  +
  +
- The option VIEW FONTS will allow you to preview your font image at any time.
  +
  +
- The option DELETE FONTS will allow you to clear the memory buffer where your font image is stored.
  +
  +
  +
PARAMETERS:
  +
  +
- Then you must specify the size of your objects to
  +
scroll using the PARAMETERS box:
  +
  +
- WIDTH: Use the increment arrows to define in pixels the width of each object.
  +
(Maximum 8x4=32 Pixels)
  +
  +
  +
- HEIGHT: Use the increment arrows to define in pixels the height of each object.
  +
(Maximum 33 pixels)
  +
  +
  +
CREATE TRAJECTORY:
  +
  +
- Click on CREATE TRAJECTORY to define the location of the
  +
your scrolling trajectory directly on your background image.
  +
  +
- For this, use your ST's mouse, move the trajectory
  +
(Y) directly with your mouse.
  +
The location of your scrolling is then displayed
  +
on the screen by 2 parallel lines.
  +
  +
Click the LEFT MOUSE BUTTON to validate your
  +
choice.
  +
  +
- Do the same to define and validate the two parameters X1 & X2
  +
(Start and end column of the scroll)
  +
  +
  +
SCROLLING ON & OFF:
  +
- To validate your scrolling, click on ON.
  +
The TEST option allows you to check and preview your scrolling.
  +
  +
20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)[[User:Olivier.jan|Olivier.jan]] ([[User talk:Olivier.jan|talk]])
  +
IF ANY PARAMETERS ARE MISSING FROM THE PROGRAM, THIS ACTION WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE..!
  +
20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)[[User:Olivier.jan|Olivier.jan]] ([[User talk:Olivier.jan|talk]])
  +
  +
  +
GRILLE: The grid option allows you to create a grid in the
  +
format of the desired fonts, then save it in the Degas
  +
(extension .PI1) format and work on it using your drawing software.
  +
  +
This facilitates the creation or touch-up of new
  +
text fonts.
  +
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
MUSIC
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
Click on the MUSIC icon or press the function key F8 to access the music definition box.
  +
  +
This option allows you to load music into your computer's memory and play it during the execution of your loader.
  +
  +
Sound on your ATARI can be obtained in two ways; by programming the sound chip or by playing sampled tunes.
  +
  +
You therefore have the option to load music of either SOUND CHIP type or SOUND-TRACK STE (.MOD) type.
  +
  +
  +
* CHIPS MUSICS:
  +
  +
LOAD:
  +
- You can load Sound Chip type music using the LOAD option.
  +
The music will then automatically play as soon as you return to the
  +
dialogue box.
  +
  +
- For Chips composed of several tunes, you can
  +
specify the number of the tune to play using the CHIP NUMBER option.
  +
For this, click with your mouse on the two increment arrows of the counter.
  +
  +
CAUTION: Any loading of an unknown format other than MAD MAX,
  +
WHITTAKER may "Crash" your machine.
  +
  +
  +
  +
SAVE:
  +
- You can save the Sound Chip music in memory to a floppy disk with the SAVE option in the dialogue box.
  +
(Extension: .ZIK)
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
* SOUND-TRACKS STE: (If you have an STE..!!)
  +
  +
- You can load uncompacted SoundTrack STE type music using the LOAD SoundTrack STE option.
  +
The music will then automatically play as soon as you return to the
  +
dialogue box.
  +
  +
- For better audio quality, Sound-tracks use
  +
a high amount of machine time, therefore, there is a risk of disrupting
  +
the text-scrolling if the scrolling trajectory or the fonts used are too large.
  +
  +
  +
CAUTION: Do not attempt to load music files of formats other than those indicated, as this could force a system shutdown. The program will always try to verify that the music is in the expected format before using it; however, something may go wrong.
  +
  +
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
PROGRAM COMPRESSOR
  +
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
  +
  +
Click on the PACK icon or press the function key F9 to
  +
access the dialogue box.
  +
  +
20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)[[User:Olivier.jan|Olivier.jan]] ([[User talk:Olivier.jan|talk]]) 20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)
  +
FOR

Revision as of 21:49, 17 December 2023

                       ----------------------------
                       --- USER MANUAL ---
                       ----------------------------
                                                                                   



            L O A D E R     C O N S T R U C T I O N     K I T         
            -------------------------------------------------
                       Version  1.93F  (French)



                        Developed and programmed 
                                 by
                           GRANDHOMME André
                             



   Throughout this manual, it is assumed that you are proficient in 
   using your computer, including mouse operation, icon management, 
   drop-down menus, and the GEM environment.
 
   If this is not the case, we strongly advise you to carefully read 
   the manual that comes with your ATARI computer.



                               APPENDIX
                   LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT DISK

To save space, some files on the LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT disk are compressed.

Here are various instructions to decompress them. These files are self-extracting with the extension (.TOS).

Please follow the instructions in order.

The original disk should always remain write-protected to avoid any mishandling.

DECOMPRESSING .TOS FILES:

Disk (A) is the original Loader Construction Kit disk. Disk (B) is your freshly formatted blank disk.


1) Format a blank double-sided disk (Disk B).

2) Copy the EXEMPLES.TOS file from the original disk (Disk A) 

  onto your freshly formatted disk (Disk B).

3) Double-click on the EXEMPLES.TOS file (Disk B). 

  All folders and annexed files will then decompress.

4) Delete the EXEMPLES.TOS file from Disk B.

5) You can now open the EXEMPLES.LCK folder to view 

  all the decompressed files (Extension .LCK).


Repeat the same operations for the files CHIP.TOS, TRACK.TOS, DESSINS.TOS, and FONTES.TOS.



A FEW WORDS FROM THE AUTHORS.... 

    Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of the LOADER

CONSTRUCTION KIT. Every effort has been made to make this software a premium product.

We hope it will meet all your expectations. 


                                                The Authors




                            --- TABLE OF CONTENTS ---

CHAPTER I: OVERVIEW 

              - Warning                                      page..
              - Installation                                 page..
              - Protection                                   page..
              - Introduction                                 page..

CHAPTER II: USING THE LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT. 

              - Description of drop-down menus               page ..
              - Saving your work                             page ..
              - List of names                                page ..
              - Managing the background image                page ..
              - Touch-ups                                    page ..
              - Graphic effects                              page ..
              - Scrolling                                    page ..
              - Music                                        page ..
              - Program compressor                           page ..
              - Passive test of loader                       page ..

CONCLUSION:

KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS: 


                             CHAPTER I

                            OVERVIEW


WARNING: 

    Any reproduction or copying by any means must be distributed for free.

It may not be altered, either completely or partially, nor any other files linked to it.

INSTALLATION: 

    The disk is not copy-protected. However, before you start working with the Loader Construction Kit, we recommend making a copy of the original and then storing it safely.

Use the copy disk for all your operations. 

    This software is designed to be used under GEM and in medium

resolution on your Atari ST. If you try to load the program in low or high resolution, you will get a message indicating that this cannot be done.

It works on all ATARI ST compatible computers, such as the ST, STF, STE, MEGA STF & MEGA STE, and can be installed and used on your hard drive if you wish.


CAUTION: For optimal use, it is preferable to use 

          the program Loader Construction Kit on a computer
          with at least 1 Mega of RAM and equipped with a
          Blitter.  

          520 ST owners (512KB memory) must have a minimum of desktop accessories (see none...) to 
          save as much memory as possible.

PROTECTION:

The LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT software, however, is protected by logical protection.

Before each use, the program will ask you to enter a series of 3 colors located on a grid supplied with the software.

You will then be given a code corresponding to the abscissa and ordinate of one of the cells on this grid (a letter + a number). Use your computer's mouse and click on the chosen color from among the 9 options to validate your response. This operation must be repeated 3 times to define your color series.

If you do not enter the correct color series, the software will automatically return to the GEM desktop without launching. 

INTRODUCTION :
              
     * LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT is a loader creation software.
       (In English: Selection and loading menu.)

       It allows, without any knowledge of computer programming, 
       the creation of an executable file integrating: music, 
       text scrolling, background image, graphic effects, etc.



       This allows you to personalize your demos, recreational or professional applications, advertisements, or to grant access to the computing world to any novice person from 5 to 77 years old...!!

       Moreover, its extreme ease of use will enable you to design your projects in record time, with your talent as the only limit.

                           CHAPTER II

               USING THE LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT



                  DESCRIPTION OF DROP-DOWN MENUS

*  The Loader Construction Kit uses the GEM interface of your ATARI ST
   in medium resolution. It is operated entirely with the mouse 
   or keyboard shortcuts.


ABOUT THE LCK MENU: 

    This option provides different information; the program version number, the publisher's contact details, 
    the authors' names, etc.

FILES MENU: 

    In this drop-down menu, you have access to a series of 
    file management functions.
              
         NEW - Resets all variables..
     LOAD.LCK - Load a .LCK file   (F1)
      SAVE.LCK - Save a .LCK file   (F2) 
      TEST.LCK - Test the operation of your loader (simulation..)   
 COMPILE LOADER - Creation of a LOADER.PRG on the disk..

 DELETE FILE - Delete a file on disk.
RENAME FILE - Rename a file on disk.
    CREATE FOLDER - Creation of a new folder on disk.

     EXIT LCK - Exit the Loader Construction Kit program
                   and return to GEM.


OPTIONS MENU:

SELECT DRIVE: - Choice of the active floppy drive or hard drive. 

  DISK INFO:   - Clicking on the A or B icon, you get the available space 
                   on your floppy disk.
                   It also provides various other information, 
                   such as the type of floppy disk, the number of sides, and 
                   tracks, etc.
                   
                 - Clicking on the BOOT SPY option, you can test for 
                   the presence of a virus on the floppy disk. 
                   
                   CAUTION:  Do not use this option on original 
                               floppy disks.  



    FORMAT:  - This option gives you a disk formatter.
                 The formatting performed is the same as that under the 
                 GEM desktop of your ATARI 

EXECUTE .PRG: - This option allows you to run another program
                 while remaining under the control of the LOADER CONSTRUCTION
                 KIT.
               - You must have at least one mega of RAM
                 to use this option..


BACKGROUND IMAGE MENU: 


     LOAD .P?1: Loading an image in Degas Elite format
                   (PI1 & PC1)

     LOAD .NEO: Loading an image in Neochrome format

      SAVE .PI1:  Save an image in Degas Elite format (.PI1)

      SAVE .NEO:  Save an image in Neochrome format (.NEO)




                     SAVING YOUR WORK

SAVING: 

     In order to retain your creations, it is imperative to 
     save them on a floppy disk or hard drive. 
     To do this, use the option SAVE .LCK from the FILES Menu, or 
     press the FUNCTION KEY F2 

     The extension (.LCK) will be automatically added by the program 
     with each save.


PS: For protection, if a file with the same 

     name already exists, a (.BAK) file is automatically created .
    
     So watch out for the free space on your floppy disk...!


LOADING: 

     Of course, you can subsequently reload your creations 
     by using the LOAD .LCK option from the FILES Menu, or press 
     the FUNCTION KEY F1


COMPILATION: 

     After finishing your LOADER, you can save it as 
     an executable program directly under the GEM desktop.
     
     To do this, use the option COMPILE LOADER from the drop-down 
     menu and follow the program's instructions.

     After compiling, do not change the name of the executable file
     created by the program (LOADER.PRG). This would cause an error 
     when launching it...



                           LIST OF NAMES                    

CREATION OF THE LIST OF NAMES:

   * Click on the NAME icon or press the function key F3 
     to access the dialogue box.

     This option allows you to define the list of NAMES for 
     EXECUTABLE PROGRAMS that you want to load through 
     your LOADER.

     The maximum number of these programs is 18, but you can 
     increase this limit by chaining multiple loaders together. 
                              

   * To create your loader, you must define the NAMES of the EXECUTABLE PROGRAMS to be launched and the KEYS assigned to them.
    
   For this, use your mouse and proceed as follows:

           - Click on the PRG №1 box

           - The GEM file selector appears,
             then click on the chosen FILE (executable..!).

           - The program then asks you to hit the KEY 
             associated with this FILE.

           - Return to the main dialogue box where the File Name and the Keyboard Code of the key are displayed.

           - Proceed in the same way for all programs
             to create your list.



*****************
>>> ATTENTION <<<
***************** 

* Each Program to be launched must be located in the same DIRECTORY
  as the LOADER.PRG file on your Floppy Disk or hard drive. 
         
* For the LOADER to launch a Program under GEM, it must not be 
  compiled in an AUTO folder.
                
* If the programs to be launched are COMPRESSED, there may be 
  conflicts with the LOADER and memory.(Run TESTS...!)
         
* Avoid mixing programs that operate at different resolutions (Low or Medium) in your list.

* If you have decided to compile your LOADER in an AUTO folder, 
  the programs in your list must be located at the root of the directory on your floppy disk.

  These must not call GEM and must operate 
  in LOW RESOLUTION.



                    MANAGING THE BACKGROUND IMAGE

To load or save a background image, click on the IMAGE icon or press the function key F3. You can also use the BACKGROUND IMAGE drop-down menu.


LOAD BACKGROUND IMAGE: ( Load .P?1 or Load .NEO ) 

   - This option allows you to load an image into your computer's memory (the background image) which will later serve as a graphic backdrop for your loader.

     The LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT can load images of the Degas Elite type (extension .PI1 or .PC1), or Neochrome type (extension .NEO),
     these three file formats being the most common in the ST-compatible computer world.

     After each read, the program displays the image that has just been loaded; click the right mouse button to 
     return to the main screen.


SAVE BACKGROUND IMAGE: ( Save .PI1 or Save .NEO ) 

      This option allows saving the background image stored in your computer's memory. The LOADER CONSTRUCTION KIT can save this image in Degas (.PI1) or Neochrome (.NEO) formats.

( the program will automatically add the extension of the chosen image format with each save )


VIEW BACKGROUND IMAGE: ( View Image or Function Key F3 ) 

    - This option allows you to view the background image stored in your computer's memory at any time.
     
      After viewing it, click the right mouse button to 
      return to the main screen. 



                           TOUCH-UPS                   

Click on the DRAWING icon or press the function key F5 to 
access the dialogue box.

    - This option allows you to load your drawing program directly within the Loader Construction Kit to make touch-ups to your various graphics.

    - You will then be asked to specify the desired resolution to launch your drawing program. 
      Since some software uses GEM, despite a usage in LOW resolution, the benefit of MEDIUM 
    resolution is highly appreciable.
    (Example: Neochrome...)

CAUTION: It is strongly recommended to have a computer 

           with at least one mega of RAM to use 
           this option.



                            GRAPHIC EFFECTS

Click on the EFFECTS icon or press the function key F6 to access the graphic effects definition screen. 

     - This option gives you the possibility to combine various foreground and background effects for your background image. 
       You have 6 types of appearance effects and as many for disappearance.

     - The selection of such effects is done through icons represented by a drawing. 

     Click on the desired effect, then on TEST to preview your choice.

     - After viewing the effect, click the right mouse button to 
     return to the dialogue box. 

     - To have no appearance or disappearance effects, select 
     the NORMAL option in the dialogue box.



                              SCROLLING                    

 Click on the SCROLLS icon or press the function key F7 
 to access the scrolling definition screen.

 You can define vertical scrolling of a maximum height of 33 
 pixels. 



TEXT 
         - First, enter the text of your scrolling,
           click on the WRITE TEXT button.  

         - The text editor box then appears:
           (with the ASCII order of authorized characters..)

         - Then just type your text.
           The maximum size of your text is 720 characters.
           The ESC key allows you to erase the line where
           the cursor is located.         
         
         * You also have the options LOAD, SAVE, and
           DELETE (Extension: .TXT )

FONT:   
         - You must have loaded the image containing 
           the objects to be scrolled into the buffer:
           These objects will most often be text font drawings, but it is not forbidden to scroll mountains, clouds, etc.

         - To load your font image into memory, use 
           the option LOAD FONTS. (Extension .PI1, .PC1 or .NEO) 
           After loading, your image will automatically be previewed.

           Click the right mouse button to return to 
           the dialogue box.

         - Then you can save, in the Degas format, the
            same image using the option SAVE FONTS.
         
         - The save format of this option is different 
           from the standard DEGAS format, in that the size of the fonts 
           (size defined by the HEIGHT and WIDTH parameters)
           is saved along with the image. 
           
           This facilitates the use of your fonts while remaining 
           compatible with all drawing software.

         - The option VIEW FONTS will allow you to preview your font image at any time.

         - The option DELETE FONTS will allow you to clear the memory buffer where your font image is stored.          



PARAMETERS:

     - Then you must specify the size of your objects to 
       scroll using the PARAMETERS box:

         - WIDTH: Use the increment arrows to define in pixels the width of each object.
                   (Maximum 8x4=32 Pixels)



         - HEIGHT: Use the increment arrows to define in pixels the height of each object.
                    (Maximum 33 pixels)



CREATE TRAJECTORY:

      - Click on CREATE TRAJECTORY to define the location of the
        your scrolling trajectory directly on your background image.
              
      - For this, use your ST's mouse, move the trajectory
        (Y) directly with your mouse. 
        The location of your scrolling is then displayed 
        on the screen by 2 parallel lines. 
        
        Click the LEFT MOUSE BUTTON to validate your 
        choice.
                        
      - Do the same to define and validate the two parameters X1 & X2
        (Start and end column of the scroll)


SCROLLING ON & OFF: 

                  - To validate your scrolling, click on ON.
                    The TEST option allows you to check and preview your scrolling.

20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)Olivier.jan (talk) IF ANY PARAMETERS ARE MISSING FROM THE PROGRAM, THIS ACTION WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE..! 20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)Olivier.jan (talk) 


GRILLE:  The grid option allows you to create a grid in the
         format of the desired fonts, then save it in the Degas 
         (extension .PI1) format and work on it using your drawing software.
         
         This facilitates the creation or touch-up of new 
         text fonts.



                               MUSIC

Click on the MUSIC icon or press the function key F8 to access the music definition box.

This option allows you to load music into your computer's memory and play it during the execution of your loader.

Sound on your ATARI can be obtained in two ways; by programming the sound chip or by playing sampled tunes.

You therefore have the option to load music of either SOUND CHIP type or SOUND-TRACK STE (.MOD) type. 


* CHIPS MUSICS:

LOAD: 

       - You can load Sound Chip type music using the LOAD option.
         The music will then automatically play as soon as you return to the 
         dialogue box. 
      
       - For Chips composed of several tunes, you can 
         specify the number of the tune to play using the CHIP NUMBER option. 
         For this, click with your mouse on the two increment arrows of the counter.

CAUTION: Any loading of an unknown format other than MAD MAX, 

           WHITTAKER may "Crash" your machine.


SAVE: 

       - You can save the Sound Chip music in memory to a floppy disk with the SAVE option in the dialogue box.
         (Extension: .ZIK)

* SOUND-TRACKS STE: (If you have an STE..!!)

    - You can load uncompacted SoundTrack STE type music using the LOAD SoundTrack STE option.
      The music will then automatically play as soon as you return to the 
      dialogue box. 

    - For better audio quality, Sound-tracks use 
      a high amount of machine time, therefore, there is a risk of disrupting 
      the text-scrolling if the scrolling trajectory or the fonts used are too large.


CAUTION: Do not attempt to load music files of formats other than those indicated, as this could force a system shutdown. The program will always try to verify that the music is in the expected format before using it; however, something may go wrong. 


                         PROGRAM COMPRESSOR                    

 Click on the PACK icon or press the function key F9 to 
 access the dialogue box.

20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC)Olivier.jan (talk) 20:49, 17 December 2023 (UTC) FOR

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