D A Z Z L E The Ultimate Graphics Image Generator Shareware Usage Agreement and User's Manual Documentation for Revision 5.2 17 January, 1997 Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. P.O.Box 8759 Spring, TX USA 77387-8759 76236.1573@compuserve.com http://www.microtronics.com/ BY USING THIS SOFTWARE YOU ARE AGREEING TO ALL THE TERMS, LIMITATIONS, AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED HEREIN. This software is NOT FREE, see the SHAREWARE section for details Please take the time to review this whole document as soon as possible in your use of DAZZLE. The program is far more configurable and flexible than it initially appears, and the great majority of questions that arise are addressed herein. The size of this document lends itself to being printed for easier review and reference. Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc.(WMT). The software described in this document is furnished under a license agreement. The software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement. Programs & documentation Copyright(c)1989-97 Worldwide MicroTronics,Inc.(WMT) 1. DAZZLE OVERVIEW...........................................................1 2. INTRODUCTION..............................................................1 3. SHAREWARE.................................................................2 3.1. USAGE LIMITATION........................................................3 3.2. REVISION CONTROL........................................................3 3.3. CURRENT REGISTRATION FEE AND CREDIT CARDS...............................3 3.4. ONLINE ORDERS FOR FULL FEATURED SCREEN SAVER............................4 3.5. SITE LICENSES...........................................................4 3.6. FUTURE PRODUCTS.........................................................5 3.7. ROYALTIES...............................................................5 3.8. DISCLAIMER..............................................................5 3.9. DISTRIBUTION LIMITATION.................................................5 4. COMMAND LINE OPTIONS......................................................5 4.1. MAIN OPTIONS MENU.......................................................6 4.2. ADDITIONAL OPTIONS MENU.................................................6 4.3. SPECIFYING OPTIONS......................................................6 4.4. COMPATIBILITY OPTIONS...................................................7 4.5. ARTISTIC OPTIONS........................................................9 4.6. OTHER OPTIONS..........................................................10 4.7. SPECIFYING THE INPUTFILE...............................................12 5. ON-LINE HELP.............................................................13 5.1. CURSOR KEYS WITHIN HELP................................................13 5.2. EXITING HELP...........................................................13 6. LED INDICATIONS DURING DAZZLE............................................13 6.1. SCROLL LOCK LED........................................................13 6.2. NUM LOCK LED...........................................................13 6.3. CAP LOCK LED...........................................................14 7. PRIMARY DAZZLE MODES.....................................................14 7.1. SELECTING MODES........................................................14 8. KEYS ACTIVE IN ALL MODES.................................................14 ESCAPE : PROGRAM TERMINATION................................................14 TAB : FREEZE IMAGE..........................................................14 F5 : DUMP SCREEN PCX IMAGE TO DISK FILE.....................................15 F6 : DUMP SCREEN BMP IMAGE TO DISK FILE.....................................15 "." : TOGGLE QUIET MODE.....................................................15 "+" AND "-" : COLOR CYCLING CLOCK ADJUSTMENT................................15 "PGUP" AND "PGDN" VGA COLOR CYCLING STEP ADJUSTMENT.........................15 SHF-F10 : REINITIALIZE THE COLOR PALETTE....................................16 CTL-F10 : SELECT NEW BACKGROUND COLOR.......................................16 THE FADE CONTROL KEYS.......................................................16 SPECIAL FADE CONTROL KEYS...................................................16 DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994-96 WMT i MOUSE CLICKS................................................................17 9. KEYS ACTIVE IN "SEMI-AUTO" MODE..........................................17 F8 : TOGGLE CONTINUOUS DRAWING MODE.........................................17 F9 : SELECT RANDOM IMAGE....................................................17 F10 : DRAW CURRENT IMAGE....................................................18 ALT-F10 : REINITIALIZE CURRENT ALGORITHM....................................18 SPECIFIC IMAGE SELECTION KEYS...............................................18 10. CONFIGURATION...........................................................18 10.1. CURSOR KEYS WITHIN CONFIGURE..........................................18 10.2. EXITING CONFIGURE.....................................................19 10.3. CONFIG VERSUS IMAGE CONTROL...........................................19 10.4. IMAGE SIZE CONTROL....................................................19 10.5. FADE ENABLE CONTROL...................................................19 10.6. AUTO MODE DISPLAY CUSTOMIZATION.......................................20 10.7. FILE ACCESS MENU......................................................20 11. USAGE WITHIN WINDOWS....................................................21 12. CONFIGURATION FILE FORMAT...............................................21 12.1. SHIFT KEY TOKENS......................................................21 12.2. SPECIAL TOKEN.........................................................21 12.3. KEY ID................................................................22 12.4. CONFIGURATION VALUE...................................................22 12.5. COMMENT LINES.........................................................22 12.6. VERSION FLAG..........................................................22 13. PROGRAM INTEGRITY.......................................................22 14. PROGRAMMERS COMMENTS....................................................22 DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994-96 WMT ii 1. DAZZLE Overview version number: 5.2 The only Screen Saver so stunning that it has been made into a Long Form Music Video! This software is a graphics image generator that you can run manually as a screen saver. If you want the FULL FEATURED self-starting screen saver for DOS, Windows 3, and Windows 95 then see section "3.4. ONLINE ORDERS FOR FULL FEATURED SCREEN SAVER" below for more information. Transform your color VGA or EGA-equipped PC into a stunning source of computer-generated beauty. DAZZLE is a hypnotizing graphics image generator acclaimed in computer magazines as the best self-directing art program available. It fills the computer monitor with continually evolving displays that protect the screen from image burn. A popular diversion for waiting rooms, reception areas, and family rooms at home. Used in conjunction with your favorite music, there is no form of entertainment quite like it. * Award winning interactive color kaleidoscopic program that provides endless changing visual viewscapes. * Performance art for the eyes featuring a rich selection of drawing algorithms, fades, and special effects. * Includes a self-directing mode which is an effective and entertaining attention getter. System Requirements * Personal computer using the 8088, 286, 386, or higher processor. * EGA, VGA, 8514/A graphics card, or compatible video graphics adapter and color monitor. * MS-DOS or PC-DOS operating system version 3.1 or higher. 2. INTRODUCTION DAZZLE is an award winning self directing color image generator for DOS and Windows computers with EGA or VGA compatible color displays and adapters. Performance art for the eyes. A source of beauty; sometimes subtle, sometimes vibrant, always changing. The image engine has numerous primary image drawing algorithms, most of which have at least two styles of presentation, many of which have multiple internal drawing variations. There is an assortment of fades, including split screens and pans, used by the imaging system for greater diversity of presentation. When the "Semi-Automatic" mode of DAZZLE is active, the user can play the program from the keyboard. Specifically selecting each pattern to draw, or letting the program select the pattern randomly. The selected pattern is generated for as long as the user holds the draw key. There are no limits on the mixing of image patterns. The user can then invoke a specific fade effect, DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 1 or let the program select an effect randomly. The types of displays that can be generated in this fashion are far more varied, and personal, than anything that "Auto" mode ever produces. There is a configuration menu that allows the customization of DAZZLE image generation. It also allows the selective disabling of various fades. This configuration information can be written to an editable text file, and either loaded again from the menu or loaded automatically at program invocation by specifying the file name on the DAZZLE command line. An on-line HELP text window system is included in DAZZLE. In the self generating "Auto" mode the primary image algorithms are mixed randomly on the screen. An adjustable number of images are overlaid at a time, producing a very large assortment of possible displays. Each display remains for a while to be appreciated, then the screen is cleared via a fade algorithm, and another set of patterns is presented. Mathematically speaking, an exact pattern match might not occur for many weeks of continuous operation. Human perception is far less exacting and will discern repetition well ahead of these extremes, but the general effect is impressive and frequently surprising. Note that the starting patterns of the program will be different each time it is executed. If the program seems predictable, exit it and start it over again. DAZZLE can be used in a variety of ways. At the office it keeps the screen from being burned by constant display of an unchanging prompt. Simply start the program when leaving your desk or answering the phone or otherwise diverted. When you register this program you will receive the self-starting DOS and Windows Screen Saver capability, and optional password protection. This shareware version is NOT a self activating memory resident screen saver. DAZZLE can be used to aid relaxation. In its slower cycling VGA modes (where this program REALLY shines) it is often soothing and helps one to shift conscious attention from the cares of the day. Watching DAZZLE may cause a reduction of blood-pressure, general relaxation, and heightened alpha states in the brain. When overwhelmed with problems or pressures, it is often true that shifting one's focus from an immediate concern allows the objectivity needed to enhance decision making and settle the nerves. DAZZLE is a performing art realization on a computer platform. Used with your favorite music DAZZLE can be highly entertaining and regenerating. In its self-directing play mode it is great "living" mobile art. 3. SHAREWARE Shareware is a brave concept in software marketing that allows you to "try before you buy." Shareware authors retain all rights under their copyright, but allow free distribution of their programs within specified limits. Distributors of shareware -- including on-line BBS and catalog outlets -- usually do not charge for the shareware software itself. The distributors are charging for their own services in providing access to their resources. Registration payment directly to the author entitles the user to additional services, information, and newer products. It is a great deal for users, authors, and distributors alike. Please support this honor system marketing technique so that more great programs of increasingly professional quality can reasonably be provided via this system. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 2 Copyright laws apply to both shareware and commercial software, and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific exceptions clearly stated by the author. Shareware authors are accomplished programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable quality -- in both cases there are good programs and bad ones! The main difference is in the method of distribution. The shareware author specifically grants the right to copy and distribute the software to all. You are encouraged to pass a copy of DAZZLE along to your friends for evaluation, BUT PLEASE DO NOT GIVE IT AWAY ALTERED OR AS PART OF ANOTHER SYSTEM (unless you have an OEM license from WMT). Please encourage them to register their copy if they find that they can use it. Businesses, BBS's, and catalog operations please note: distribution of Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. (WMT) shareware products, even free of charge, without clearly explaining to the recipient their legal requirement to register the program is strictly forbidden, and a violation of USA copyright law and International Treaty Provisions. 3.1. Usage Limitation Please note that this program is NOT FREE. You are entitled to use it for evaluation over a short time (not more than 15 days) to determine if it functions adequately for your needs, after which time a registration fee paid directly to Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. is required by copyright law, and greatly appreciated by all of us. Any distribution or on-line fee paid by you to copy DAZZLE is (usually) not forwarded to Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. by the distributor, and therefore would not constitute payment of a registration fee. The purchase price you paid for a book or a magazine authorized to distribute this software does NOT constitute payment of the mandatory registration fee due directly to Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. (WMT). If you purchase the full featured screen saver then it should be used in place of this shareware product, and therefore you do not need to register this program. The images generated by this program are protected under copyright law (see section "3.7. Royalties" below). Businesses and government agencies MUST register every copy of this program in use anywhere within their operations, facilities, or place of business. Use of this software without proof of registration payment is strictly forbidden. 3.2. Revision Control Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. is NOT responsible for revision control of DAZZLE through any source other than direct mailings from our office. If you request a copy from any other source please be certain of the revision level that you are acquiring, and that it contains all related files and documentation. Your registration fee for DAZZLE entitles you to legally use the copy of DAZZLE in your possession beyond the 15 day evaluation period. We also are now sending the full featured self-starting DOS and Windows Screen Saver to those who pay the registration fee. 3.3. Current registration fee and credit cards The registration fee for this version of DAZZLE is $15 ($20US for customers outside the continental U.S.A. please). You may enter the command DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 3 "DAZZLE /$" to display a convenient order form. The output is standard English ASCII text. If you have a dot-matrix printer, or a LaserJet, or other device that can print normal ASCII text attached to your computer, you can use this command to print the form: "DAZZLE /$ > PRN: " (don't include the quotes). If you have a postscript printer, or other device that will not accept normal ASCII text, use whatever tools are provided to print standard DOS type text files. If you must print from a file, you can use this command: "DAZZLE /$ > ORDRFORM.TXT " (don't include the quotes). Basically, whatever commands you used to print this manual should also work for the order form. A single registration fee will license one copy for use on any one computer at any one time. You must treat this software just like a book. An example is that this software may be used by any number of people and may be freely moved from one computer location to another, so long as there is no possibility of it being used at one location while it's being used at another. Just as a book cannot be read by two different persons at the same time. Additional registration offices are being considered to service customers outside of the continental U.S.A. As we receive additional registrations from international customers we will be able to improve the level and accessibility of support, and produce multilingual programs. 3.4. ONLINE ORDERS FOR FULL FEATURED SCREEN SAVER Download & Purchase RAZZLE DAZZLE Savers Electronically: Visit our WEB site to BUY IT NOW ONLINE at http://www.microtronics.com For Information Or Other Inquiries: Worldwide MicroTronics Inc P.O. Box 8759 Spring, TX USA 77387-8759 +1 (281) 297-4123 (voice) +1 (281) 297-4124 (fax) All Support And E-Mail Inquiries: 76236.1573@compuserve.com shiflett@microtronics.com http://www.microtronics.com/ 3.5. Site Licenses Also available are MULTI-COPY or SITE LICENSES -- minimum quantity 5 copies. The licensee receives one "master" copy of the program and all related documentation, additional master copies of disk and/or documentation are available for an extra charge. These may be copied by the licensee for multiple users at the designated location (site) up to the number of licensed copies. The following discounts are currently allowed if ordered directly from Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. This price is for the shareware DAZZLE program ONLY. The user must buy one "master" copy of the program at the normal price (plus shipping/handling), then copies can be made from that master disk. Contact Worldwide MicroTronics Inc for price and availability. SITE LICENSES AND MULTICOPY LICENSES MUST BE PAID DIRECTLY TO WORLDWIDE MICROTRONICS, INC.. NOT TO ANY OTHER REPRESENTATIVE, OUTLET, AGENT, OR OTHER ENTITY. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 4 PLEASE DO NOT ASSUME THAT ANY SITE, OFFICE, COMPANY, OR GOVERNMENT OPERATION HAS AN UNLIMITED LICENSE TO COPY AND USE ANY WORLDWIDE MICROTRONICS, INC. PROGRAM, INCLUDING DAZZLE. We have never (as of this writing) issued an open or unlimited license, and probably will not. Please be certain that you know the limits of the license under which you are making copies. Honesty and prevention are much cheaper options for EVERYBODY. But then, our attorney's have children to feed also, so we do not hesitate to utilize their resources. 3.6. Future Products A full computer security version of MT-DAZE is available from Harcom Security Systems Corp. For details call (800) 275-3438 or (212) 766-1802. DAZZLE, the music video, is available on stereo VHS video cassette at (800) 767-4748. 3.7. Royalties ALL COMMERCIAL RIGHTS TO THIS PROGRAM ARE RETAINED BY THE AUTHOR. The images generated by this program are intended for viewing on a computer executing a registered copy of this software, and may be extracted, projected, or otherwise translated onto other media only for personal enjoyment or non-commercial use within companies which have registered this software. Public display of DAZZLE images is permitted without royalty for registered copies that are used for trade shows, point of sales, and offices, where such usage is for entertainment or demonstration purposes, if no admission is charged, and the display is incidental to the business being conducted. 3.8. Disclaimer Users of DAZZLE and related products must accept this disclaimer of warranty: "DAZZLE is supplied for non-exclusive usage as is. The author disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any purpose. The author assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of these programs." 3.9. Distribution Limitation CD-ROM distributors, FTP sites, and ASP recognized BBS operators are encouraged to post and distribute this program, others are required to submit a Distribution Authorization form BEFORE distributing this program. Distribution of Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. shareware products, even free of charge, without clearly explaining to the recipient their legal requirement to register the program is strictly forbidden, and a violation of copyright law. 4. COMMAND LINE OPTIONS A number of options that control the action of the DAZZLE family of programs can be specified on the command line when the program is invoked. With the exception of the "/$" and the "/Z" options, all command line options can be controlled from a self-documenting menu system. Enter "DAZZLE /#" to access this menu from the command line, or use the "F2" key while the program is running and press "C" for the CONFIG menu. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 5 4.1. Main Options Menu When you enter the command "DAZZLE /?" at the DOS prompt you will be presented with the following display. The following options can be specified on the command line and are used to customize and control the action of "Dazzle". These options can also be specified in a batch (.BAT) file for automatic activation. /$ Display order information. /2 2-part palette, fixes flickering screens but slows drawing. /a Alternate Palette Speed - automatically changes cycling speed. /b Bashful - no closing credits & pressing any key quits the program. /c Compatible mode - use the PC's BIOS for better compatibility. /d Delay - slows the drawing speed for faster PC's. "/d=xxxx" delays drawing speed by the specified value. /i Insecure - CRC checking is not performed when program starts. /m Mad - uses fastest color cycling speed...a real attention getter! /q Quiet - no tones (this option has no effect on warning beeps). /s Show - displays a single image then quits. "/s=xxxx" shows for the specified number of seconds then quits. /w Window - changes defaults for use with Windows. /x XT compatible - for use on 8088/8086 PC's with EGA or VGA. /z Create DAZZLE.DOC file on current disk path! For example - if you want to start "DAZZLE" so that no tones are heard, no CRC checking is performed, and operate in Windows compatible mode, type the following command: DAZZLE /q /i /w Press any key to continue 4.2. Additional Options Menu When you press a key at the "Press Any Key" prompt you will be presented with the following display. While "DAZZLE" is running, the [Tab] key will freeze the display until the [Space] bar is pressed. The [F1] key activates on-line help during the program. The [F2] key provides a menu of configuration options. The [Esc] key terminates the program. ** Refer to DAZZLE.DOC for more details ** Additional command line options: /+ Empty keyboard buffer on exit. /! Monitor Screen Saver driver interface. /e EGA - forces EGA display mode. /f Fade VGA brightness during use (Screen Dimmer). /g iGnore mouse - don't let it terminate the program. /h Hide EGA border - forces a black border in EGA mode. /k Keyboard Typematic - allows program to change the typematic rate. /r Retract hard disk heads at program startup (see manual). /t Tall Video - forces the program to use standard BIOS aspect ratio. /v VGA mode forced, disable SVGA (see manual). 4.3. Specifying Options The Dazzle program accepts any combination of options on the initial command line that affect its mode of operation. The options may be preceded with either the "/" (slash) character or the "-" (minus) character. If you use the SwitchChar feature of MS-DOS, the "/" (slash) option marker character can be changed to any other key. At least one space must exist between the Dazzle DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 6 command and the first option. For example, "DAZZLE /FC" instructs Dazzle to execute with Fixed colors and in Compatible mode. The options are not case- sensitive -- uppercase and lowercase letters are treated identically. The options may either be concatenated into a single string or entered separately (/FC is treated the same as /F /C). The optional input file may be specified anywhere on the command line. For example, "DAZZLE /I MTDAZZLE.DZL" has the same effect as "DAZZLE MTDAZZZLE.DZL /I". Both commands instruct Dazzle to start up in Insecure mode and to load the configuration file MTDAZZLE.DZL before starting the image generation process. Note that Dazzle will automatically attempt to locate and load a configuration file named MTDAZZLE.DZL unless explicitly instructed otherwise with the "*" (asterisk) or "/*" (slash asterisk) command line options. The effects of each option are detailed below. We provide this documentation on using the command line options directly for completeness, but strongly encourage the use of the "DAZZLE /#" access to the menu driven interface as a superior means of controlling the program. 4.4. Compatibility Options Some of the options for DAZZLE are specifically related to increasing portability of the program to various computers and displays. The "2", "c", "d", "e", "k", "v", and "x" options default to the most desirable modes, but can be controlled by the user. VGA users also should refer to the "t" option for details. /2 = 2-part palette, fixes flickering screens but slows drawing. Normally the entire color palette is updated at one time for each tick of the color cycling clock. If the CPU clock speed or the VGA palette register update rate is too slow, the upper part, or perhaps all of the display, will flicker badly during the display. To determine if this is due to palette updates, press and hold the "-" (minus) key during the running graphics display until it beeps (this is the slowest cycling clock rate). If the display flickers only when the color changes, then palette update speed is a problem. Using the "2" option splits the VGA palette update request into two almost equal groups that are handled sequentially. This should remove, or at least significantly reduce, cycling induced flicker. This option should not be used if not needed, as it slows the entire display generation process. This option affects operation with VGA adapters only, since they allow longer 256 color palettes. Short 16 color palettes for EGA's are never divided into two separate updates. /C = Compatible mode - use the PC's BIOS for better compatibility. Normally DAZZLE bypasses the video adapters BIOS code for maximum speed in color palette cycling. However, some rare adapters may have problems with this mode of operation. To cause DAZZLE to use the provided BIOS the "C" option can be used. If your display flickers or distorts, or the color fails to cycle smoothly during the display, then try this option to determine if it corrects the problem. This option reduces program performance speed and should not be used if not needed. /D = Delay - slows the drawing speed for faster PC's. "/d=xxxx" delays drawing speed by the specified value. This option serves both artistic and compatibility purposes. On faster computers the DAZZLE drawing algorithms can be too fast to appreciate as an evolving image. If the computer is too fast, or if you simply desire to induce a slower drawing speed for purely aesthetic reasons, DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 7 this option can be used to delay the drawing process. If used simply as "/D", without specifying any delay units, the program will use a default delay amount. To adjust the amount of delay a specific value can be provided after the "=" (equal) character. There is no exact relationship of the delay unit value and the impact on the drawing speed, it must be experimentally determined on each computer. The larger the number, the slower the drawing. The delay unit value ranges from 1 (minimum) to 32767(maximum), and can be entered without leading zero's. There must be no spaces or tabs between the "D", the "=", and the numbers for the delay units. This option can be concatenated with other non-numeric options. Thus "/AD=250W" is a legal command option string. /E = EGA - forces EGA display mode. Normally DAZZLE will automatically detect the video adapter hardware attached and adjust itself to use either the EGA or the VGA mode. This "/E" option allows VGA users to select and view the EGA mode of operation, which is 640x350 16-color in format. As of revision 4.0 this option, like the "/V" option, will prevent DAZZLE from aborting if it thinks that it has detected an unacceptable video controller/monitor combination, though it will still give its usual error messages during startup. Refer to the "/V" option below for more information. /K = Keyboard Typematic - allows program to change the typematic rate. "Keyboard Acceleration" utilities cause the self-repeating "typematic" function of the keyboard to repeat far more rapidly. They come in two flavors: * Those that tell the keyboard to send keys more often. * Those that trick DOS into thinking that more keys arrive than actually are sent by the keyboard. When specifying this command line option, DAZZLE will set the "typematic" rate of the keyboard to it's minimum value for best program performance. When DAZZLE terminates it puts the "typematic" speed back to a value typical of most DOS defaults. Those that use a keyboard speed-up utility that stops having an effect after DAZZLE has been executed have the first type of such a utility. If you want the keys back to their quicker speed you can re-execute your speed-up command. /V = VGA mode forced, disable SVGA (see manual). Normally DAZZLE will automatically detect the video adapter hardware attached and adjust itself to use either the EGA or the VGA mode. The retail RAZZLE DAZZLE 3D program can detect and use a VESA compatible SVGA driver for 640x480 sized 256 color images. Using this option with that program forbids the use of SVGA, and makes the program run in the normal VGA mode. In the shareware DAZZLE product this option generally SHOULD NOT BE NECESSARY, OR USED. It should be unable to cause any damage, but is intended for rare compatibility conflicts where the startup code in DAZZLE falsely rejects the video controller/monitor combination as unacceptable. This option, like the "/E" option, will allow the error messages to be reported (so that you can write us of the problem), but will prevent the program from aborting itself. If the DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 8 controller/monitor is really VGA compatible, or really EGA compatible if using the "/E" option, then normal image generation should be observed. Unlike the "/E" option, this option lacks artistic usage or impact. The VGA mode uses all 256 color palette registers for a far more subtle and interesting series of displays. The default VGA mode of DAZZLE uses a specially enhanced 320x400 256-color mode that is not properly captured by many commercial products. The VGA modes require no more than 256kB of video memory. /X = XT compatible - for use on 8088/8086 PC's with EGA or VGA. This option allows DAZZLE to execute on 8088 or 8086 based PC/XT type computers with EGA or VGA adapters and color displays. This option will be automatically initiated if the 808x style CPU is detected at program startup, but specifying the command line option avoids the warning message. The EGA performance on XT computers seems acceptable, but the VGA mode may be noticeably inferior to the performance of an 80x86 based computer. The faster the CPU clock the better the overall performance and fluidity of DAZZLE. 4.5. Artistic Options These options adjust the image generating algorithms used by the program. They are largely artistic in nature but allow customizing the presentation to various environments and requirements. /A = Alternate Palette Speed - automatically changes cycling speed. The default color cycling mode is the slowest, with the most subtle shadings and transitions. The mad speed ("/M") is the fastest. There are a total of three color cycling modes within the program. The cycling rate used in shaping the palette contents. The effect is distinct from, but can complement, the "+" and "-" keys that can be used while the program is active. This option causes the program to automatically change between the three color cycling modes within the program. This produces the most varied and divergent kinds and tempo's of displays. /F = Fade VGA brightness during use (Screen Dimmer). Normally DAZZLE will randomize the color palette registers between each screen erase before starting the next image generation. This allows all the possible colors (up to a quarter million on VGA) to be used by the program. Sometimes the program will use darker colors, sometimes bright. This option forces the VGA palette to grow continually darker while the program is operating, until it finally reaches a minimum brightness stage (usually about 20 to 30 minutes of operation). Most CRT monitors draw less electrical power as the general brightness of the display is reduced. Some can save as much as 80% of their consumption when dark as opposed to fully illuminated. This feature allows the user to realize the benefits of the relaxing DAZZLE artwork, and also reduce the idle power use of their system when it is not in active use -- conserving resources, and MONEY. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 9 /H = Hide EGA border - forces a black border in EGA mode. Some folks find the colored border on the EGA display distracting, and some displays do not perform retrace masking properly. This option will cause the border color in EGA modes to be forced to black at all times. /M = Mad - uses fastest color cycling speed...a real attention getter! This option not only greatly accelerates the color palette contents rotation, but it also increases the number of images that can be displayed in "Auto" mode at one time before the screen is erased. The effect is a far busier screen, a more intense visual experience. This is particularly suited to attention-getting in showrooms and other public displays, whereas the default mode is more practical for personal meditation and relaxation. /S = Show - displays a single image then quits. "/s=xxxx" shows for the specified number of seconds then quits. The "/S" option gives a single panel of images and then terminates automatically. This is most useful when DAZZLE is to be executed from within other programs or batch files. The image displayed is different each time. The "/S=xxxx" option allows DAZZLE to execute for a specified length of time, after which it will terminate at the end of the next fade. The duration value ranges from 1 (minimum) to 3600(maximum), and can be entered without leading zero's. There must be no spaces or tabs between the "S", the "=", and the numbers for the duration. This option can be concatenated with other non-numeric options. Thus "/AS=250W" is a legal command option string. /T = Tall Video - forces program to use standard BIOS aspect ratio. Normally the EGA mode of DAZZLE uses a 16 color 640x350 resolution display with a modified aspect ratio (screen is mapped as if it had 640x700 resolution). The default VGA mode uses 256 color 320x400 resolution. The "/T" option causes the program to use the standard BIOS supported 320x200 screen resolution and aspect ratio in generating all images. The effect is somewhat faster image generation, but with a noticeably tall aspect ratio. Note that due to VGA hardware limitations, using this option will prevent the display of "dual page" effects (where a screen composed of a different image than the one being displayed is "panned" or "scrolled" onto the visible display area). 4.6. Other Options /$ = Display order information. Issuing this option when invoking DAZZLE will cause the program to output a convenient order form that can be quickly completed and sent to Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. for product orders, information request, and shareware registration. To send this form directly to a printer use the MSDOS output redirection character ">" (greater-than or right-pointer) to specify the destination. For example, if you have a printer that can accept standard ASCII text on your computer port PRN:, then the command to use would be: DAZZLE /$ > PRN: DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 10 Complete the form and mail it to the indicated address. Enclose any indicated funds in U.S. Dollar instruments, payable to Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. /B = Bashful - no closing credits & pressing any key quits program. DAZZLE will identify itself, including its revision level, when the program is started. The BASHFUL option will prevent closing credits when the program terminates (similar to the SHOW option), and additionally prevents DAZZLE from clearing the type ahead keyboard buffer when it exits. This allows usage of DAZZLE in a more classical "Screen Saver" mode, since whatever key is pressed to exit is not lost. This mode disables ALL key interpretation of DAZZLE. Even the "+" and the "-" keys will cause DAZZLE to terminate. The shareware version of DAZZLE does not initiate itself in a "Screen Saver" fashion under DOS or Windows, this flag is used by the retail Screen Saver drivers from Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. This mode blocks the use of the keyboard LED's to indicate the state condition of the executing DAZZLE program. DAZZLE has been successfully used within MS/Windows (copyright Microsoft), but use of this option will prevent window selection keystrokes. Use of the command line option "/W" was added for the windows environment as detailed below. /G = iGnore mouse, don't let it terminate the program. Specifying this option prevents this program from attempting to communicate with your mouse driver. This option makes any activity on the mouse invisible to this program. /I = Insecure - CRC checking is not performed when program starts. Before starting the image display process DAZZLE will normally perform a test on the disk copy of itself in an attempt to assure that no unauthorized modifications ("hacks") have been made to the program after it was distributed from Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. . This is a safety feature added for YOUR protection! Please note that this is NOT a system-wide scan for virus infection-only the current disk copy of the DAZZLE.EXE file is checked, nor is the self-check completely exhaustive. Once you have used your copy of DAZZLE, after it has passed its antiviral test and you no longer wish to endure the delay at every invocation for this testing, you can use this command line option to bypass this safety feature. IF YOUR COPY OF DAZZLE FAILS THIS TEST, PLEASE NEVER USE THIS OPTION! INSTEAD WRITE TO THE SUPPLIER THAT GAVE YOU THE BAD COPY! A clean copy can be in your hands in a very short time, and might save your software investment (NOTE: Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. only supplies disk to our registered users.) /Q = Quiet, no tones (no effect on beeps). This option will block the tones that DAZZLE emits at various points in its operations. But warning beeps are generally not restricted. DAZZLE uses programmed tones for most alerts and signals that it issues. These tones are of short duration, and change pitch depending on the condition being signaled. With the increase in operational options these tones are very helpful in determining the state the program is in. The one place where these tones are superfluous is the tiny tune in the closing credits, but this tune can be aborted with any keypress. In the retail RAZZLE DAZZLE 3D program this command also controls the volume of the midi music composer. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 11 /R = Retract hard disk heads at program startup. This option instructs DAZZLE to "park" your hard disk heads in a safe "landing zone" position. Retracting the disk heads is a safety precaution provided to reduce the possibility of disk damage from an unexpected loss of power to the computer while DAZZLE is executing. Older drives that do not automatically retract at the loss of power might benefit from retracting the heads before turning the power off. Retracting the heads, and removing electrical power, is also prudent before physically moving a computer. DAZZLE issues a standard BIOS "PARK DISK" (Int 13h, Function 19h) call to retract the disk, therefore it is the BIOS in your own computer that performs the retraction. We can answer no questions about how this is done, nor warrant that the action taken is that which is desired. We are not responsible for direct or consequential problems or losses that may arise from using this option. We know of no reason to be concerned about using this option, but suggest not using it if you have any reason to doubt its impact on your computer. On some models of disk drives it is possible that an unusual sound will be made the next time the hard disk is accessed after having been parked. This is usually a "recalibration" step, and generally not a technical cause for concern. This option should not be used when external images are being presented by Dazzle as it will slow the performance of this program. /W = Window - changes defaults for use with Windows. This option was added to simplify use of DAZZLE within MS/Windows environments. It prevents the startup antiviral check (please see the "/I" option for a discussion of the risk involved), and all startup messages. This mode blocks the use of the keyboard LED's to indicate the state condition of the executing DAZZLE program. It allows normal "switch" key commands to Windows for task switching. DAZZLE will still show the closing credits graphic image, but not the closing text messages. This option can be used even if DAZZLE is not operating within Windows. /Z = Create DAZZLE.DOC file on current disk path! DAZZLE keeps the entire Users Manual within itself in an efficient manner that has minimal impact on total usage of the program. By specifying this option DAZZLE will create a new DAZZLE.DOC Users Manual file on your current default disk directory, which you can then print. Note that this file is formatted for generic text printers. /+ = Empty keyboard buffer on exit. This option forces the program to clear the keyboard buffer when exiting back to DOS, even if using the "/B" option. /! = Monitor Screen Saver driver interface. The retail versions of RAZZLE DAZZLE 3D and related products allow execution as a self activating Screen Saver under both DOS and Windows. This option allows the retail version of the program to monitor the Screen Saver driver interface so that it performs normally in that environment, which is the default mode invoked by DAZTSR. 4.7. Specifying the INPUTFILE DAZZLE can accept the optional specification of an input file on the command line. This file must contain a text script that is consistent with the program's language specification. The specification of a path as well as a DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 12 filename is acceptable. Be sure to separate the file name from options with at least one space. DAZZLE will automatically attempt to locate and load a configuration file named MTDAZZLE.DZL unless explicitly instructed otherwise with the "*" or "-*" command line options. 5. ON-LINE HELP DAZZLE supports a limited on-line help menu system. You may press the "F1" function key to activate the help subsystem. This system is intentionally limited in size and scope to keep the program from growing too large, but it offers useful summaries of the newest and most pertinent features of DAZZLE. The graphics screen that was being displayed when help is activated is erased when help is exited. 5.1. Cursor Keys within HELP When within the help subsystem DAZZLE recognizes the various standard cursor keys. The "HOME" key jumps to the first page of help text. The "END" key jumps to the last page of help text. The "PgDn" key advances to the next page of help text, the "PgUp" returns to the previous page. The arrow keys also can be used. Note that the bottom right of the text window shows what page movement keys are valid at that point. 5.2. Exiting HELP The text menu subsystems, including the help system, can be exited by pressing the same key that invokes that subsystem. Thus to exit help press the "F1" key again. 6. LED Indications during DAZZLE The DAZZLE family of programs control the lighting of the Num Lock, Cap Lock, and Scroll Lock LED's (Light Emitting Diodes) on the keyboard to indicate to the user the state of the program as it moves through the various conditions or "states" in normal operation. These LED's (or lights) can be on, off, or blink; each represents a different condition as detailed below. Note that use of the "/W" or the "/B" command line options prevent the DAZZLE program from changing the keyboard LED indicators. 6.1. Scroll Lock LED This light indicates 1 of 3 possible conditions for the program. 1) When off, the program is not in any pause state, something is actively being computed or displayed. 2) When blinking, the program is in an active countdown of a normal pause delay. When the delay expires the program will proceed to the next action without any need for user intervention. 3) When on, the program is halted in a pause state, and will not proceed until the user takes some action. This can be induced by pressing either the "TAB" key or the "H" fade key. Refer to the details elsewhere for these specific keys to understand how to release the program from this state. This condition also occurs when any text menu is on the display, use the specified menu exit command to restore normal program execution. 6.2. Num Lock LED This light indicates that the program is either computing or displaying a "Pan/Scroll Fade" process. If no activity is visible on the screen then the DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 13 program is building a new image on the "hidden" display so that it can be moved onto the active or "visible" display area. Refer to the "P" fade key for additional details. 6.3. Cap Lock LED This light indicates that the program is computing a new VGA color palette to use on the active display. The duration of this period is directly dependent on the math speed of your computer. This indication was added to inform users when their program seems halted that valid computations are progressing unseen within the system. Refer to the "Shift-F10" key description for additional details. 7. PRIMARY DAZZLE MODES DAZZLE has two primary modes of operation. The original "Automatic" (a.k.a. "Auto") mode, which is fully self generating; and a new "Semi-Automatic" (a.k.a. "Semi-Auto") mode, which allows interactive control of the image generation process. Some keys are only effective in the "Semi-Automatic" mode, others are active at all times. 7.1. Selecting Modes Selection between these two modes is done by pressing the "ALT" (Alternate) key and the "F9" function key. This combination is referred to as "Alt-F9". At program startup DAZZLE is always in "Auto" mode. To enter "Semi-Auto" mode press "Alt-F9". There is a short high pitched tone. The display is cleared. The palette is reinitialized to a new setting (this may take a few seconds on a slow VGA machine). Then a short multi-tone chirp is emitted to indicate that "Semi-Auto" is ready for image drawing commands. To return to "Auto" mode press "Alt-F9". There is a short lower pitched tone. The display is cleared. The palette is reinitialized to a new setting. Then the self generating engine begins creating random image displays. 8. KEYS ACTIVE IN ALL MODES Some key commands that DAZZLE recognizes are active regardless of the current display mode. The meaning of some keys change slightly depending on the current display mode. ESCAPE : Program Termination "The first and most important thing to learn about any program is how to get out of it." This key will do the job for you regardless of where you are in the program, just keep banging it till you get back to the DOS prompt. Note that when not in the various text menu screens, that "ENTER" also will terminate the program. TAB : Freeze Image The "TAB" key can be pressed at any time when not in a text menu to "freeze" the current graphics image display. Once pressed, DAZZLE will remain in "freeze" mode until the "SPACE" key is pressed (the "n" key will also work). While in "freeze" mode, the "TAB" can be repeatedly pressed to toggle between color-cycling and color-static modes. The "Shift-F10" key can be used to change the palette of an image in "freeze" mode. This is most useful in stabilizing a specific display for image capture. Even an image in the midst of a fade or pan can be put into "freeze" mode. This key is also active in the "Semi-Automatic" DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 14 mode, though here its usefulness is limited to halting a fade in mid- execution. The Scroll Lock LED on the keyboard will be continuously lighted to indicate that "freeze" is active. Refer to the section on Scroll Lock LED above for more details. F5 : Dump Screen PCX Image to Disk File Pressing the "F5" function key converts the display memory into an industry standard PCX disk image file. The program will name the file "DAZ_xxxx.PCX", where xxxx is replaced with a number from 0000 to 9999, depending on what filenames already exist on the current disk path. The image format will match the current video mode of the program. The program will resume normal display after the file is completely written. If a "Pan/Scroll" fade is in effect when "F5" is pressed the "current" display will assume full screen position for the duration of the file creation, then the fade will return to normal action. Please note that all images from this program are copyrighted property of Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. (refer to section "3.7. Royalties" above). F6 : Dump Screen BMP Image to Disk File Pressing the "F6" function key converts the display memory into an Windows standard BMP disk image file. The program will name the file "DAZ_xxxx.BMP", where xxxx is replaced with a number from 0000 to 9999, depending on what filenames already exist on the current disk path. The image format will match the current video mode of the program. The program will resume normal display after the file is completely written. If a "Pan/Scroll" fade is in effect when "F6" is pressed the "current" display will assume full screen position for the duration of the file creation, then the fade will return to normal action. Please note that all images from this program are copyrighted property of Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. (refer to section "3.7. Royalties" above). "." : Toggle Quiet Mode Pressing the "." (period) key while the program is drawing will toggle the Quiet mode (refer to "/Q" command line option) on and off. This allows muting of the program sounds without having to terminate execution. "+" and "-" : Color Cycling Clock Adjustment The fluid changing of DAZZLE images is largely the result of a clock driven rotation of the display's color palette. The user can adjust the rate of this clock at any time by using the "-" (minus) key or the "+" (plus) key. Pressing "-" reduces the clock rate, pressing "+" increases the clock rate. Note that DAZZLE defaults to maximum speed in VGA modes, and almost maximum rate in EGA modes. When either the maximum or the minimum clock rate is reached the console emits a short tone. This process is distinct from, yet can complement, the palette control command line options (see descriptions for "/A" and "/M" options above). "PgUp" and "PgDn" VGA Color Cycling Step Adjustment The degree of color change that occurs at each event of the color clock can be adjusted on VGA displays using the "Page Up" (PgUp) and "Page Down" (PgDn) keys. The program starts in the minimum step condition when loaded. This effect is distinct from, yet strongly complements, the "+" and "-" key functions described above. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 15 Shf-F10 : Reinitialize the Color Palette Pressing the "SHIFT" key and also the "F10" function key simultaneously (Shf-F10) causes the current color palette of the display to be reinitialized to a new random condition. There is a short tone at the start of the request, and another tone when the process is completed. In EGA modes the process is almost instantaneous. In VGA modes it can take up to a few seconds, and the Cap Lock LED will light while the new palette is being computed. Refer to the Cap Lock LED description for further details. CTL-F10 : Select New Background Color Pressing the "CONTROL" key and also the "F10" function key simultaneously (CTL-F10) causes the background color of the current display to be changed to a new random value. The Fade Control keys DAZZLE allows the user to select which fades will be used. The actions of these keys vary slightly depending on the current mode. In "Auto" mode, pressing one of the fade keys sets which fade will be used next but allows the normal image generation process to continue. In the "Semi-Automatic" mode the fade keys induce the selected fade immediately. The "Fade Enable Control" screen in the "Configuration" menu shows which key (without the "Alt", "Ctl", or "Shf" keys being used) can be pressed to select a specific fade algorithm. Special Fade Control keys The following behave a little differently, so they have been set aside for special discussion. P : Pan/Scroll fade Unlike the previous fade keys, this one has to be pressed at a certain time to have any effect in the "Automatic" mode. When DAZZLE is drawing in "Auto" mode it is in the "Auto-DAZE" state (no LED's are lit, see details above about LED usage). Once the last image has been drawn it switches to the "Fade-Out" state (the Scroll Lock LED is lit). The first thing this latter state usually does is just pause for a while so that you can appreciate the incredible beauty of the display. The "P" key is only recognized in "Auto" mode if pressed while still in the "Auto-DAZE" state (before Scroll Lock lights). Once the last image has been drawn and the pause delay starts this key will simply be ignored. If a Pan/Scroll is in progress as indicated by the lighting of the Num Lock LED, then pressing the "P" key will assure that both a pan and also a scroll are presented. In the "Semi-Automatic" mode this key will not induce a Pan/Scroll. Since that effect is not supported in the "Semi-Auto" mode, pressing "P" causes one of the other fades to be randomly selected and executed immediately. H : Hold current display This is distinct from, yet similar to, the "freeze" command that is called with the "TAB" key. This key is simply ignored in the "Semi- Auto" mode. In the "Auto" mode it lets the "Auto-DAZE" state (refer to DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 16 Pan/Scroll description above) continue to normal completion, and will even let a Pan/Scroll proceed normally if one happens to have been selected by the "Fade-Out" state. But it causes the "Fade-Out" state to jam in the pause delay mode forever. Here the program will wait until you manually select a fade. Note that the fade that you select will commence immediately. The Scroll Lock LED will light solidly, indicating that user intervention is required to allow the program to proceed normally. Refer to the Scroll Lock LED description above for more details. If you press "H" as soon at DAZZLE enters the pause delay mode, then any fade select key, the delay is effectively canceled -- allowing you to immediately induce any fade you wish. N : Next display now This key has been made immediately effective in all modes. It stops any current image generation or fade, and begins a screen clear process. This is the fastest way to blank the screen. Mouse Clicks DAZZLE will test for the presence of a Microsoft compatible Mouse driver. If any mouse button is pressed (or if the screen is contacted when using a Touch Screen system that is Microsoft Mouse compatible) DAZZLE will usually interpret that action as being the same as pressing the "ENTER" key. Note that in the text menu subsystem of this current version a mouse click aborts the program. See "/G" option for ignoring the mouse. 9. KEYS ACTIVE IN "SEMI-AUTO" MODE We document the functionality of this feature below, but to limit the already massive size of this document we did not include the tutorial for this mode that can be found in the current (as of spring 1994) retail RAZZLE DAZZLE 3D manual. Thus experimentation is encouraged. DAZZLE supports a whole set of commands to allow the user to control the image generation process of the program. Refer to "Selecting Modes" above for details on accessing the "Semi-Automatic" mode. Note that configuration options that disable a fade cause that fade to be unavailable in the "Semi- Auto" mode also. In addition to the keys described in the "KEYS ACTIVE IN ALL MODES" section above, the following keys can be used while in the "Semi-Auto" mode. F8 : Toggle continuous drawing mode This key is similar to the F10 Draw Current Image key, except that "F8" will draw the selected image continuously until the next press of the "F8" key. All other keys maintain their normal function even while the continuous drawing mode is active. This mode is switched off when you exit 'Semi-Automatic' operation, but remains active through a fade or menu access. Review the section below with the F10 key description for more details. F9 : Select Random Image If the user wishes to let DAZZLE randomly select the next image generating algorithm to be drawn then press the "F9" function key. It selects another image each time it is pressed. Note that specific images can be selected as detailed below. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 17 F10 : Draw Current Image Once an image algorithm has been selected by whatever means, the "F10" key is pressed to draw that image. The image will be drawn for as long as you hold down this key. You may release the key, and when you press it again it will simply resume where it left off if you have not pressed another key. It is suggested that you start an image with just a tap of this key, note what it is doing, and then decide how long you wish to hold it. Since there are no limits on image generation time with this key, you can let a really interesting pattern grow continuously, producing visual effects that "Auto" mode will never duplicate. This key will remember the image being played even if you perform a "fade". So if a great image gets too busy, you can "fade" it and press "F10" again and pick up where you left off. Due to the behavior of the "typematic" key repeat built into the keyboard controller, it is possible for DAZZLE to get confused about when you release the "F10" key. If this happens then the selected image will continue drawing after you release this key. Just a quick tap of this key again will bring it to a halt. Alt-F10 : Reinitialize Current Algorithm This key allows the continued use of the same currently selected image algorithm. But it causes the image algorithm to be reinitialized to new random settings. This is most useful for changing between various modes of the same algorithm. Some images support use of exclusive-OR for "ghosting" or mosaic texturing, some can change shape, most will change color and screen location when this is pressed. Specific Image Selection Keys It is possible to specify exactly which image algorithm you wish DAZZLE to use by pressing one of the Alt-keys 0 through 9, or A through Z. Press the "Alt" key, and a letter key or number key (use the numbers along the top of the keyboard, not the ones over on the side calculator pad). Each represents a specific image selection. The "Image Size" display in the "Configuration" menu list the name of each algorithm, and the Alt-key that can be used to select that image. In addition to the Alt-keys pattern selection, Ctl-keys A through Z can be used to select images that are detailed in the second "Image Size" display in the "Configuration" menu list of algorithms. 10. CONFIGURATION DAZZLE allows the user to customize many of the characteristics of the image generation and fade actions. At any time you may press the "F2" function key to activate the configuration menu subsystem. This system offers useful enhancements and controls. 10.1. Cursor Keys within CONFIGURE When within the configure subsystem DAZZLE recognizes the various standard cursor keys. The "HOME" key jumps to the first entry field of the current screen. The "END" key jumps to the last entry field of the current screen. The "PgDn" key advances to the next screen, the "PgUp" returns to the previous screen. The arrow keys also can be used. Note that the bottom right of the text window shows what page movement keys are valid at that point. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 18 10.2. Exiting CONFIGURE The text menu subsystems, including the configure system, can be exited by pressing the same key that invokes that subsystem. Thus to exit configure press the "F2" key again. 10.3. CONFIG versus IMAGE control The first menu presented allows you to select between the CONFIG and the IMAGE set of control menus. The IMAGE menus allow you to customize the actual graphics created by the self-directing "Auto" mode, and to save the settings in a file. IMAGE controls are documented in the remainder of this section below. The CONFIG selection brings up a menu that allows you to make any of the command line options of the program permanent. You can also access this menu directly from the DOS command line with the "/#" command line option. Each of the configuration options accepted by the program can be controlled from this menu. Simply press the letter associated with the option. A text window will appear and explain the function of the option, and allow you to decide if you wish to activate the function. After you have set all the options desired simply press the "ENTER" key. When it ask if you wish to make the settings permanent press "Y". 10.4. Image Size Control These two screens allow the user to customize the images generated in the "Auto" mode of DAZZLE. When an image is called, it is allowed to draw on the display for a variable amount of time, the duration of which centers around the number entered in this menu. This number is multiplied by an internal value that reflects the size of the display and the resolution of the current active video mode. Therefore these numbers are relative and not absolute in their impact. Since the screen resolution varies from EGA to VGA, it is also true that the maximum value that can be entered changes between video modes. You may enter any large number, DAZZLE will reduce your input to the legal range for the current mode. The minimum value is 0, thus allowing the complete disabling of images as you desire. At least one image must have a non-zero value, a configuration file that fails this criteria may cause DAZZLE to abort during startup. As the "Image Size" number is increased the selected image is allowed to draw longer, producing either larger patterns, more patterns, and/or a greater variety of pattern variations. The "KEY" field shows which Alt-key or Ctl-key (refer to "Specific Image Selection Keys" above) will select that specific image drawing algorithm. The "NAME" field shows the internal name of that image. The "SIZE" field shows the current relative size limit for that image. Note that the first Image Size screen is for use with Alt-key images, and the second Image Size screen is for use with Ctl-key images. 10.5. Fade Enable Control This screen allows the user to selectively enable or disable specific fades. If disabled, the fade will be unavailable in either "Auto" or "Semi- Automatic" modes. If the user presses a fade command key (refer to "The Fade Control Keys" above) for a fade that has been disabled then DAZZLE will randomly select an enabled fade to execute. Note that in addition to the listed fades, DAZZLE uses a "fade to black" process to clear the screen at the end of each fade. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 19 The "KEY" field shows which key (without the "Alt", "Ctl", or "Shf" keys being used) will select that specific fade algorithm. The "FADE" field shows the internal name of that fade. The "ENABLE" field shows the current state for that fade. 10.6. Auto Mode Display Customization This menu shows two numbers; "Minimum images per display" and "Maximum images per display". These values control the number of images that will be overlaid on a single screen during the Auto Mode of operation. When set to small numbers only a few images will be mixed together on one display prior to the next fade. This reduces how busy the screen becomes. When set to large numbers many images will be mixed together on a display prior to the next fade. This creates a much more complex display. This menu also allows you to control how long the program pauses in an idle state before initiating a fade. This time is provided to allow a screen to be appreciated before it is removed. 10.7. File Access Menu This screen allows the user to save or load a DAZZLE configuration file. There are three entry fields on this screen. Two additional function keys are also recognized only when viewing this screen. Select Mode At this entry the user can select either to "Save" the current configuration information, or to "Load" an existing file. Press either the "S" key or the "L" key, then "ENTER". File Name At this entry the user can specify the file to be saved or loaded. Note that a default name is provided if one was not used at program invocation. To replace the name simply begin typing it in, and press "ENTER" when completed. It is suggested that a file extension (the last three characters in the name, on the right of the period) of ".DZL" be used. The following extensions are illegal : .BAT, .COM, .EXE. Beneath this field is an unmarked "File Status" field. If you attempt to load a nonexistent file this will show "NOT FOUND". If you try to save over an existing file this will show "EXIST", unless the file is protected from overwriting, in which case it will show "READ ONLY". If you specify a wildcard character ("*" or "?") within this entry, then DAZZLE will automatically invoke a directory list to aid in your selection process. Path The current disk and directory path is displayed in this field. You may specify any variation of disk and path information that DOS would normally support. Each of the following are legal: .. (changes to previous directory) C: (changes to C drive) \WMT (to WMT directory on current disk) D:\ (to root directory on D drive) DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 20 F3 : View Disk Directory Pressing the "F3" function key invokes the disk directory display. Note that if you have begun an entry in any of the menu's fields you must press "ENTER" before this key can take effect. Once a disk directory is displayed you may use the various cursor keys to move around. Arrow keys work, and the "HOME" key jumps to the top of the display, the "END" key jumps to the bottom. The "PgUp" and "PgDn" keys can be used to move about more quickly. Press "ENTER" to select a specific file, or "F3" again to exit this display. If you select a field that ends with a "\" (backslash) character, you are selecting a directory, and the display will be updated to reflect the contents of this new default path. The path field in the File Access Menu also will be updated to this new path. File names displayed in lower case letters are "Read Only". F4 : Execute Save/Load Once the desired file has been specified, the "F4" function key can be pressed to execute the specified command. If the "F4" key is ignored, then you may still have a pending input entry; simply press "ENTER" then try the "F4" key again. 11. USAGE WITHIN WINDOWS When you register this shareware product you will receive the full- featured self-starting DOS and Windows (3.1 and 95) screen saver product. This shareware program is not designed to be used as a Windows screen saver. 12. CONFIGURATION FILE FORMAT The file that is used by DAZZLE is an editable text file that follows a simple format. Each entry in the file must be on a separate line, and consist of a "Key ID" and a "Configuration Value". It is suggested that the user invoke DAZZLE in it's default mode, use the File Access Menu to "Save" a copy of the program's configuration. That file should then be printed. With DAZZLE in the Configuration Menu mode, a printout of the configuration file, and a copy of this document in hand, the whole process should prove to be very clear. 12.1. Shift Key Tokens A token in DAZZLE is a character that represents a condition. In order to represent within the configuration file the condition of the three shift keys-Alternate, Control, Shift-a group of tokens have been assigned as follows: Alternate = ~ (Tilde character) Control = ^ (Caret character) Shift = ` (grave or backwards-quote character) Thus to specify the Alt-A key, the file entry would be "~A". To specify the Ctl-F key, the file entry would be "^F". 12.2. Special Token This file also contains a special token to allow the specification of menu configuration entries that do not match any shift key function. The "$" (dollar) token is used to mark such a field. The values for Auto Mode Display Customization are contained in this file as: DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 21 $I : the mInimum number of images on one display $X : the maXimum number of images on one display $F : Fade delay time in Auto mode 12.3. Key ID A "Key ID" entry in the file consist of the key to be designated, with an optional shift key token prefix. Refer to Shift Key Tokens above for examples. 12.4. Configuration Value The value to be specified must be surrounded in square brackets; "[" and "]". If the value is for an Image Size or configuration entry, then the use of an unsigned integer value is required. Unsigned meaning no "+" or "-" values. Integer meaning no fractions, decimal points, or exponents. Therefore legal values are: "[25]" or "[0001]" or "[ 99 ]". Illegal values would include: "[-1]" or " 25]" or "[14.5]". If the value is for a fade entry, then the use of either a "Y" or an "N" character is required: "[Y]" or "[N]". 12.5. Comment Lines While reading (parsing) any line of text in the file, when a ";" (semicolon) is encountered DAZZLE stops reading that line. This allows the liberal insertion of various comments within the file. DAZZLE is very casual about parsing this file. It tolerates extra space and tab characters, so you can generally make the file look any way you like. 12.6. Version Flag The first non-comment line in the file should be the version flag. It consists of a "#" (hash) character followed by an unsigned integer of the DAZZLE version of the creating program. This is intended for future compatibility between upgrades and should not be changed. 13. PROGRAM INTEGRITY All reasonable effort has been made to assure that the use of this program on any compatible computer system can have no detrimental side effects. In addition to extensive Quality Assurance testing, the DAZZLE program contains an internal integrity check (read the section on the "/I" command line option above). If someone makes any code modifications to this program, it probably will be detected and the program will refuse to execute. Any persons making unauthorized modifications will be aggressively pursued and prosecuted. As of revision 5.0 the antiviral system uses a faster and better CRC checking algorithm. See the section above about the "/R" option before using it with your computer. 14. PROGRAMMERS COMMENTS DAZZLE is written mostly in Borland C (copyright Borland). Assembler code was used for direct video control. Talented and accomplished people are always an asset. If you might be interested in contributing to a Worldwide MicroTronics, Inc. project, then please write, and if possible include a NON-CONFIDENTIAL sample of your work. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 22 Some of you have questioned me about the "Our Creator, evidenced by our creativity" message on the program credits artwork screen. This section is perhaps the best way to answer all the questions. I hope you will receive it in the same friendly spirit in which it is offered. If you are inclined towards censorship, or easily offended by simple truth, DON'T READ IT! HIDDEN TRUTH What is the reason for human creativity? Why do we have this desire and capability that surpasses all physical survival needs, and serve no real evolutional purpose? Could it be that our creativity is the evidence that we are made in our Creator's image? Doesn't this suggest a personal transcendent, supernatural God who cares about his creation, and should therefore be relevant in our daily lives? Are you willing to think about it honestly, or will you dismiss this without questioning what motivates your prejudice or fear? Do you honestly believe that our awesome universe and all the life and processes in it occurred by a theoretical, chance, mechanistic, process? Can disorder produce highly complex order? Why are the laws of physics suspended only when biological evolution is involved? Why would you have such "blind faith" in so scientifically improbable a dogma, without even considering the possibility of "informed faith" in a more consistent and probable systematic explanation? Isn't the logical evidence for design, order and purpose that surrounds us quite overwhelming? "Even if the truth is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The false god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the good news of the glory of the anointed one, who is in the image of God." (2 Corinthians 4:3,4) REVEALED IN SUPERNATURAL POWER The truth of the good news about Yeshua/Jesus the Messiah (Christ) is that he is the Son of God (Isaiah. 7:14 and Mark 1:1) who will save us and call us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace (2 Timothy 1:9). Do not be afraid or ashamed of this truth, because it is the power of your creator God for the salvation of everyone who believes (Romans 1:16) "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." (Isaiah. 61:1,2 and Luke 4:18,19) THERE IS A PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE "My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, the messiah, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments [and New Age deceptions]." (Colossians 2:2-4) SALVATION MUST PRECEDE PURPOSE "Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. With joy I will draw water from the wells of salvation." (Isaiah 12:2,3) DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 23 OUR ETERNAL HOPE "When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus the Christ (Yeshua ha Mesheah) our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7) CHALLENGE Please read this section again from the beginning with the viewpoint of "What if this just happens to be true?" What do you risk to simply give it a try? When you are ready for the true answers to life's hardest questions remember the wisdom revealed and exemplified by Jesus/Yeshua of the Holy Bible. CREDITS Scriptures liberally taken from the New International Version, copyright International Bible Society. DAZ5.2 17-Jan-97 Programs & documentation (c)1994 WMT 24