Copyright: Copyright (c) 1994-2002 CAM Development.


Editing Variable Text

Variable Text allows you to specify different text on each element printed.  The first text item is printed on the first element, the second text item on the second element and so on.  he number of text items in the list must match the number of elements you want to print.

To add a text item to the variable text list perform the following steps:

1.  Enter the text or click the Pick button to choose text from your Texts Database.

2.  Click Add.

To remove a text item from the variable text list perform the following steps:

1.  Select the text item in the top list.

2.  Click Remove.

Notes:

You can re-order the list of text items by dragging and dropping the items in the list.


Modifying the Layout of a Design

Select File|Edit Current Layout

There may be times when you want to modify the layout (i.e. width, height, rows, columns and spacing values) of a design you already have created.  This may be required if your printout is not aligned with the paper you're using or if you want to modify the layout to work with a different paper stock all together.

To modify the layout of an existing design perform the following steps:

1. Open the design you want to modify.

2. Select File|Edit Current Layout

3.  See Entering a Layout

Notes:

If you need to make adjustments due to mis-aligned printing you should enter the same values using the Edit Layouts command on the File menu so that all new designs you create will be aligned correctly without further adjustment.


Saving Your Design as a Graphic

*** This feature is not available in some Designer Series products ***

Select File|Save As Graphic

By saving your design as a graphic you can easily use with other applications, bring it to your local print shop to have professional copies printed or e-mail it.

To save your design as a graphic perform the following steps:

1. Open your design and zoom to the desired level.

The larger the zoom level the larger the graphic file will be but the better the quality the graphic will be when printed. (see Zooming In and Out)

2. Select File|Save As Graphic

3. Select a filename to store the graphic as.

4. Select applicable options.

5. Click OK.


The Personal Databases

  Select View|Personal Databases

The Personal Databases are a set of databases of information for use with the design wizard and to link to you designs.  Different types of templates prompt for this information so storing it in your personal databases makes it easy to access when you create a new design from a template.

Each personal database store a different type of information.  For example the Names and Address database stores contact information while the Texts database stores reusable pieces of text.  In each personal database you create as many categories as you wish.

WORKING WITH CATEGORIES

To add a category perform the following steps:

1.  Select the database you wish to add a category to from the tabs on the left.

2.  Click the [image] button.

3.  Enter the name of the new category

4.  Click OK.

To delete a category perform the following steps:

1.  Select the database for which you wish to delete a category from the tabs on the left.

2.  Select the category you want to delete.

3.  Click the [image] button.

To change the name of an exisiting category perform the following steps:

1.  Select the database you wish to change a category in from the tabs on the left.

2.  Select the category you want to change.

3.  Click the [image] button.

4. Enter the new category name.

5. Click OK.

WORKING WITH RECORDS

To add a record to a databases perform the following steps:

1.  Select the database you wish to add a record to from the tabs on the left.

2.  Select the category you want to add the record to.

3.  Click the Add (+) button.

4.  Enter the information.

5.  Click the Post (checkmark) button.

To delete a record from a database perform the following steps:

1.  Select the database for which you wish to delete a record from the tabs on the left.

2.  Select the record from the records list.

3.  Click the Delete (-) button.

To change a record in a database perform the following steps:

1.  Select the database you wish to change a record in from the tabs on the left.

2.  Select the record from the records list.

3.  Modify the appropriate information.

4.  Click the Post (checkmark) button.

Also See:

Importing Data into the Names and Texts Database

Exporting Records from a Personal Database


Opening an Existing Design

  Select File|Open

To open an existing design perform the following steps:

1.  Select File|Open or choose Open an Existing Design in the Design Wizard

2.  Choose the design file you want to open.

3.  Click Open.


Creating a Design From Scratch

  Select File|New

To create a design from scratch you first need to choose or create a layout to match the paper stock you have or the size you want if you are cutting the paper yourself.

Layouts for standard paper stock are included, so most likely you will not need to create your own layout and you can proceed with the steps below.  If you can't find a layout that matches the paper stock you have select the closest one and see Modifying the Layout of a Design or use the New button to create a new layout to match your paper stock and see Entering a Layout for instruction on how to enter the layout information.

To create a design from scratch perform the following steps:

1.  Select File|New then choose Pick a Layout and Create Design from Scratch in the Design Wizard and click Next.

2.  Select a category then a layout from the list or use the New button to create a new layout.

* The New button creates a new layout with the same properties of the selected layout so it is easiest to first select the layout that is most similar to the one you want to add.  Once it is created you can modify it any way you want by changing size, spacing, etc.

3.  Check the Opposite Orientation checkbox if you want to reverse the orientation of the layout (i.e. make it landscape, instead of portrait orientation)

4.  Click OK

Notes:

You can re-order the list of layouts by dragging and dropping the layout names in the list.

If you find that a layout is slightly off when printing you can use the Edit button to edit the layout so that all new designs created from it will print correctly without further adjustment.

You must click the Save button to save changes after editing layouts or re-ordering the list.


Printing Your Design

  Select File|Print of File|Print Preview

To print your design perform the following steps:

1.  Select File|Printer Setup to select the printer and change its settings if necessary.

* If you have the option "Set printer orientation and page size automatically" checked under Options on the View menu, Printing tab, the application will try to select the printer's page size and orientation for you even after you choose it manually.  If the automatic selection is incorrect or you want to choose manually be sure to uncheck this option first.

2.  Select File|Print Preview to preview the printout before printing or select File|Print to print your design without a preview.

* When you choose the Print Preview you can see how your design will look when printed and what area on the page is not printed by your printer hardware.  All printers have an area around the edge of the page that cannot be printed on which is indicated by the red rectangle on the preview screen.

* Many paper stocks have printable area outside the printable area of most printers.  If the edges of your design are cutoff when printed or outside the red rectangle on the preview screen, move the objects in your design further from the edge. The printer's unprintable area is a hardware limitation.  No software can print in this area. The unprintable area is usually 0.25-0.50 inches (6.35-12.7 mm) or more around the edge of the page on all sides.

3.  Select the Sides to Print

* If you select Side 2 (if available) you will be prompted to turn the paper and re-insert it into your printer after side 1 is printed.

* If enabled and your printer supports duplex printing, check the Duplex checkbox to enable duplex printing.  Duplex printing allows you to print on both sides of the paper automatically.  Some printers have this option built in and others offer an add-on to do this.

4.  Select the Quantity to Print

* Enter the number of elements or pages you want to print.  The number of elements refers to the number of individual labels, cards, etc.

* If a database is linked to the design you can enter the starting record, calculate the quantity to print based on the starting record and the number of records in the database.  Check Cycle Records to go back to the first record after the last record is printed

5.  Select Options

Start position on first page

This value is the position where the first item is printed on the first sheet.  The upper left side item is 1, the number increases across, then down.  You must start at position 1 if you are printing both sides of the page.

Print crop marks

Crop marks are marks that are printed at the edge of the paper to show the position of each row and column to aid in cutting the stock.  Use crop marks and/or corner marks (see below) as a guide when cutting your own stock.

Print corner marks

Corner marks are marks that are printed at the corner of each element to aid in cutting the stock.  Use corner marks and/or crop marks (see above) as a guide when cutting your own stock.

Print Filename at Top of Page

Printing the filename on the page can help you when proofing multiple designs.  Choose this option to print the filename of the design file at the top of the page.

Print Filename at Bottom of Page

Printing the filename on the page can help you when proofing multiple designs.  Choose this option to print the filename of the design file at the bottom of the page.

6.  Click OK.

Notes:

Because all printers are slightly different, it is recommended that you print a single page draft of your design the first time you print.  Do this on regular paper and verify that the alignment is correct to avoid wasting expensive specialty stock.

If your printout is not aligned correctly on the printout, see Modifying the Layout of a Design to adjust the positioning.


The Design Wizard

  Select File|New

The Design Wizard allows you to create a new design from a template quickly and easily.  You simply choose a template and enter or select the user information you want to appear in the design.  In just seconds you can have a new design ready to be printed.

You can also create your own templates to use with the Design Wizard. (See Creating and Modifying Templates)

Using the Design Wizard

STEP 1

Choose what you want to do:

- Create a Design from a Template (see below)

- Pick a Layout and Create a Design from Scratch

- Open an Existing Design

Select the layout type (Standard or A4)

Click Next

STEP 2

Choose a category and template from the template list.

Click Next

STEP 3

Choose a background category and a background from the background list if desired.  Some templates are designed to be used with a background and other are not.  You can decide if you want to you a background or not with a particular template for yourself.

-OR-

Click the Select Background button to choose a background that is not listed.  (see Picking a Graphic)

Click the Clear Background button to clear the background if you already selected one and no longer want a background..

Click Next

STEP 4

Enter the information you want to appear in your design or click the Pick button to pick information from one of your Personal Databases.  Some template will prompt for information while others will not.

-OR-

Click the Use a Database Field button to link the design's information to a database.

(*** This feature is not available in some Designer Series products ***)

Click Finish to create your design.

STEP 5

Edit the design as needed.

Once your design is created from a template you can edit it by adding text and graphics, changing colors, alignment, backgrounds and effects, etc.

Notes:

If you want to print your design on a paper stock with a different layout, you can use the Switch To Different Layout command on the File menu to choose a layout that matches your paper stock.

For designs that have multiple regions (folded business card, for example) the design wizard helps you design the primary region on the front of the design.  You can manually switch to other regions (cover, inside cover, inside, etc.) and design them if desired once the design is created.  See Regions for more information.


Creating and Modifying Templates

*** This feature is not available in some Designer Series products ***

Select File|Save As Template

THIS FEATURE IS MEANT FOR ADVANCED USERS ONLY!

IF YOU ARE NOT COMFORTABLE WITH NAVIGATING FOLDERS AND SAVING FILES PLEASE DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE THIS FEATURE.

The Design Wizard allows you to create a new design from an existing template.  Templates are just design files with special text objects in them that are replaced with information provided by the user when the template is used.  It's easy to create a new template or modify an existing one to meet your needs.

All template files are stored in a folder under the Template folder in a sub-folder under the Standard folder where the program is installed as follows:

Business Card Designer Plus

   Template

      Standard

         --> Your Folder Here <--

The name of the sub-folder is the name of the category the template is displayed under in the Design Wizard.  More than one template can be placed in any sub-folder.

Creating a New Template from Scratch

See Creating a Design from Scratch for instructions on how to create a new blank design.

Once your blank design is created you can include any text, graphics or shapes plus an optional background in the template.  These objects become part of the design, unchanged, when it is created from the template.

The following text objects are recognized by the Design Wizard as replaceable fields.  These objects are replaced with the template information when a design in created using the Design Wizard.  These objects must be in upper case.

NAME

COMPANY

TITLE

ADDRESS

RETADDRESS

PHONE

FAX

EMAIL

USER1

USER2

USER3

USER4

When you are satisfied with the changes use the Save As Template command on the File menu to save the template in the appropriate folder with a new name.

Creating a New Template from an Existing Template

Opening a template for editing is the same as creating a design from a template, only that you leave all the template information (name, address, etc.) blank so that the design is created with all the replaceable fields intact. See The Design Wizard for more information.

Once you have a template open you can modify it any way you like.

When you are satisfied with the changes use the Save As Template command on the File menu to save the template in the appropriate folder with a new name.


Entering a Layout

The layout screen allows you to enter the properties for a new layout or edit the properties of an existing layout.  The layout defines how a page is laid out.  For example, the standard business card layout is defined as follows:

Width:	3.5

Height:	2.0

Rows:	5

Columns:	2

Space between rows:	0

Space between columns:	0

Side Margin:	0.75

Top Margin:	0.50

This would produce a page arranged like this:

In this case there is no gap between the rows nor between the columns.  The shaded area represents the cards and the non shaded area represents the margins.

When you create a new file based on this layout you will be given a 3.5 x 2.0 inch area to design.  When you print a full page, ten cards will be printed on the page, arranged as shown above.

To enter the properties for a layout perform the following steps:

1.  Enter the name of the layout.

2.  Select the paper type.

3.  Enter the width and height of a single element (this is the size of a single element on the page).

4.  Enter the number of rows and columns on a page.

5.  Enter the top margin.

6.  Enter the side margin.

7.  Enter the spacing between each column.

8.  Enter the spacing between each row.

9. Click OK.

Notes:

The Region Type area is provided for informational purposes only.  Region information cannot (and need not) be changed.

The layout should be entered in a portrait orientation.  That is, as if you are looking at the paper with the long side up and down.

The sum of the widths, margins and spacing between columns should equal the width of the paper.

The sum of the heights, margins and spacing between rows should equal the height of the paper.


Inserting Text Objects Counters, Bar Codes and Databse Fields
Inserting Text Objects, Counters, Bar Codes and Database Fields

      Select Tool|Text or Tool|Barcode or Tool|Arc Text

A text object can be used to display text information in several ways.  A simple text object simply displays text, while a Barcode text object displayed text in the form of a barcode.  An Arc Text text object displays text in an arc.  Text objects can also be used as counters, to display incrementing numbers, and can be linked to a database so the text is pulled from a database field.

To insert a text object perform the following steps:

1.  Select Tool|Text or Tool|Barcode or Tool|Arc Text

2.  Click in the design area where you want to insert the object.

3.  Enter the text associated with the object (for barcodes this is the barcode data).  You have several options as follows:

Specify the same text for all elements

If you choose this option whatever text you enter or pick will print on all elements in your design.  Use the Pick Text button to choose text from the Texts Database.  Use the Symbol button to insert a Symbol.

Specify a List of Text

If you choose this option you enter a list of variable text (see Editing Variable Text) to print sequentially on each element.  For example, the first text item you enter prints on the first element, the second text item on the second element and so on.  The number of text items in the list must match the number of elements you want to print.

Use a counter with a minimum of __ digits starting at __ inc by __

If you choose this option you specify the minimum number of digits and the starting number.  Each time a counter prints it increases by the number specified after "inc by".  For example, if the minimum number of digits is 5 and the starting number is 10 and inc by is 5, the first element will print 00010 and the second 00015, etc.

Use a field from a database

(This feature is not available in some Designer Series products)

If you choose this option you select a database to link your design to by clicking the Database button or by selecting Linked Database on the Edit menu if it is not already linked to a database (See The Linked Database Wizard and Building a Database Field).  Once your design is linked to a database you can insert other fields from the database simply by inserting another text object, checking this option and selecting the field from the list (see the Building a Database Field).  You can insert any number of fields from a linked database.

4.  Optionally use the Text Object Properties to set the text properties.

You can change the style of the text here to display simple text (wrapped or non-wrapped), Bar Codes and Arc Text.

Notes:

The default style for a text object, Text (No Wrap), causes the text to wrap only where you insert a hard line break regardless of the width of the object's bound.  If you want your text to wrap to the width of the object's bound, set the style to Text (Wrap) on the Text Object Properties page.

Also See:

Editing an Object's Properties

Text Object Properties

General Object Properties


Inserting Line Objects

  Select Tool|Line

To insert a Line object perform the following steps:

1.  Select the Tool|Line.

2.  Click in the design area where you want to insert the line.

3.  Optionally use the Line Properties to set the line properties.

Also See:

Editing an Object's Properties

Line Properties

General Object Properties


Inserting Shape Objects

      Select Tool|Box or Tool|Round Box or Tool|Ellipse

To insert a shape object perform the following steps:

1.  Select the appropriate tool.

2.  Click in the design area where you want to insert the shape.

3.  Optionally use the Shape Properties to set the line properties

Also See:

Editing an Object's Properties

Shape Properties

General Object Properties


Inserting Graphic Objects

  Select Tool|Graphic

To insert a Graphic object perform the following steps:

1.  Select the Tool|Graphic.

2.  Click in the design area at the position where you want to insert the graphic.

3.  See Picking a Graphic

When inserting a graphic object you should pay close attention to the following to help improve the quality of your printout:

1. Choose graphic objects with the resolution of the printer in mind.

When displayed on the screen, intricate graphics may appear distorted because the screen's resolution is far less than the printer's resolution.  In general, a graphic that is displayed and printed, pixel for pixel, will appear much smaller on the printer.  This means that the graphic must be "stretched" to print with the same dimensions as displayed on the screen.  What really matters is how the graphic looks on paper!  For the best print quality, it's best to use graphics that are much larger than the desired size and scale them to the size you desire.  This way the graphic will contain enough information to print at the higher printer resolution without having to be stretched.

For example, if the printer has a resolution of 300 by 300 dpi (as most laser printers do) then a 300 by 300 pixel graphic will print 1 inch by 1 inch at 100% scale.  On the screen the same graphic may be larger than the entire design at 100% scale. This program uses a virtual resolution of 100 by 100 dpi screen resolution to provide WYSIWYG formatting, which means that the graphic will require 3 inches by 3 inches.  With this in mind, scaling the graphic to occupy 100 by 100 pixels on the screen (1 inch by 1 inch virtual, 33 1/3 % scale) will cause the graphic to be printed at exactly 300 by 300 dpi, utilizing 100% of the printer's resolution capabilities and provide the ultimate print quality!  Now this may seem complicated but really it is not.  Just try to use graphics that are about the same size when printed 100% scale as the size on the screen you desire.

2.  Try to keep the aspect ratio (height / width) of the scaled object the same as the aspect ratio of the unscaled object.

If the graphic contains lines on angles, changing the aspect ratio could cause the lines to appear jagged.  It's always best to maintain the aspect ratio of any graphic object when sizing the object.  (Size the graphic by dragging a corner to change the height and width of a graphic together and maintain the aspect ratio.)

Also See:

Editing an Object's Properties

Graphic Properties

General Object Properties

Sizing an Object


Adding a Background

  Select Edit|Background

A background is an image that is displayed in the background of your design.  The background you choose is stretched to fit the entire margin area (which is almost the entire design by default).  You can change the area the background occupies by changing the margins.

To add a background perform the following steps:

1.  Select Edit|Background or double click on an empty space in the design.

2.  See Picking a Graphic

Notes:

Metafiles (.WMF and .EMF files)  work best as backgrounds because they can be scaled better than other types of graphics.  Other graphic files will work but may not produce optimal results.

Scanned images are stored as bitmaps.

The background is stretched to fit within the margins.  You can change the margin settings to adjust the size of the background.


Selecting Objects

  Select Tool|Select

To select an object perform the following steps:

1.  Select the Selection tool.

2.  Click on the object you want to select.

When an object is selected a thin border is displayed around the object.  If the object can be sized, a set of eight "grapples" are displayed on each edge and on each corner.  You can click on any of these "grapples" to size the selected object.

Notes:

To select more than one object hold the SHIFT key down while selecting.

An object must be selected before it can be edited or its properties changed.


Moving Objects

To move an object perform the following steps:

1.  Select the object(s) (See Selecting Objects)

2.  Click anywhere within the object's border and drag the object to where you want it.

3.  Release the mouse button.

Notes:

You can also move selected objects using the arrow keys on the keyboard.


Sizing an Object

To change the size of an object perform the following steps:

1.  Select the object(s) (See Selecting Objects)

2.  Move the cursor over a grapple on one of the edges (left, right, top or bottom).

*  The cursor will change to a double arrow.

3.  Press the left mouse button.

4.  Drag the mouse to size the object.

5.  Release the mouse button to register the changes.

To change the height and width of the selected object at the same time perform the following steps:

1.  Select the object. (See Selecting an Object)

2.  Move the cursor a grapple on one of the corners of the object.

*  The cursor will change to a diagonal double arrow.

3.  Press the left mouse button.

4.  Drag the mouse to size the object.

5.  Release the mouse button to register the changes.

Also See:

General Object Properties

Notes:

You can also use the Fit to Margins command on the Alignment menu to automatically size an object so it entirely fills the area within the margins.


Changing the Level of an Object

    Select Alignment|Bring to Front or Alignment|Send to Back

The level of an object defines the order in which it is printed.  For example, you may have a graphic object that you want to overlay with  text.  In this case you want the graphic to be printed first, then the text on top of it.

By default objects are printed in the order they are created.  To change an object's level perform the following steps:

1.  Select the object(s) (See Selecting Objects)

2.  To make an object appear that it is at the lowest level (behind all other objects) use the Send to Back command.

To bring an object to the highest level (in front of all other objects) use the Bring to Front command.


Aligning Objects

Aligning objects can be done a variety of ways.  You can use the grid to align objects as they are placed into the design area or you can manually align objects to best suit your needs relative to the margins and each other.

Relative Alignment

Select Alignment|Align

To align objects relative to each other and/or relative to the margins perform the following steps:

1.  Select the object(s) (See Selecting Objects)

2.  Select Alignment|Align

*  In the alignment dialog you can specify alignment criteria for both the horizontal and vertical directions.

To make alignment easier, the alignment toolbar allows you to quickly align selected objects.

The following commands apply to single objects and groups of objects:

Width1Width3Width798 Width3Width7682	Align the selected object or group with the left margin. Center the selected object or group between the left and right margins. Align the selected object or group with the right margin Align the selected object or group with the top margin. Center the selected object or group between the top and bottom margins. Align the selected object or group with the bottom margin.
Width1Width3Width798 Width3Width7682

The following commands apply only to a selected group of objects:

	Align the left sides of the selected objects with the left edge of the selected group.. Center the selected objects between the left and right edges of the selected group. Align the right sides of the selected objects with the right edge of the selected group. Space the selected objects evenly within the selected group horizontally. Align the tops of the selected objects with the top of the selected group. Center the selected objects between the top and bottom edges of the selected group. Align the bottoms of the selected objects with the bottom edge of the selected group. Space the selected objects evenly within the selected group vertically.
Width1Width3Width798 Width3Width7682

Alignment with the Grid

Objects can be aligned with the grid to give your design a uniformly spaced appearance.  If the Snap to Grid option is on, all objects are automatically aligned to the grid when inserted or moved.  If the Snap to Grid option is not on, objects can still be aligned to the grid using the Align Selected to Grid or Align All to Grid commands on the Alignment menu.

To align the selected objects with the grid perform the following steps:

1.  Select the object(s) (See Selecting Objects)

2.  Select Alignment|Align Selected to Grid

To align ALL objects to the grid perform the following steps:

1.  Select Alignment|Align All to Grid

Also See:

Adjusting the Margins


Cut, Copy and Paste Commands

      Select Edit|Cut or Edit|Copy or Edit|Paste

The Cut, Copy and Paste Commands allow you to move objects to and from the clipboard.

Cut and Copy allow you to move objects to the clipboard.

Cut removes the object from the file after copying it to the clipboard.

Paste allows you to copy an object from the clipboard into a file.

To Copy or Cut an object perform the following steps:

1.  Select the object(s) (See Selecting Objects)

2.  Select Edit|Cut or Edit|Copy.

To Paste an object into the file perform the following steps:

1.  Select Edit|Paste. (See note below)

2.  The pasted object will appear in the top left corner of the design area.

*  It can now be treated like any other object in your file.

Notes:

The Cut and Copy options are only available when an object is selected.

The Paste option is only available when an object is available on the clipboard.


Editing an Objects Properties
Editing an Object's Properties

  Select Edit|Properties

An object's properties are what define the object's look and behavior.  Size, color, line size, text and style are examples of an object's properties.  You can edit an object's properties as follows:

1.  Select the object(s) (See Selecting Objects)

2.  Select Edit|Properties (If you already have the property editor window on your screen you can skip this step)

3.  Use the property editor window to modify the properties for the object.

Also See:

General Object Properties

Text Object Properties

Box/Circle Object Properties

Line Object Properties

Graphic Object Properties


General Object Properties

The General Object Properties tab contains options that are common to all objects.

Size and Position

Left	The position of the left edge of the object.

Top	The position of the top edge of the object.

Width	The width of the object.

Height	The height of the object

Extended Style

Non-Printing checkbox

Check this checkbox to make the object non-printing.  Non-printing objects are displayed at resign time on the screen but are not printed on the printer.

Position and Size Locked checkbox

Check the checkbox to lock the position and size of the object on the screen.  This prevents the object from being moved or re-sized by mistake.


Text Object Properties

The Text Properties tab contains options specific to text objects.

Font Name and Size Comboboxes

Select the font face name and size

You can also click the ... button to select the font properties through a standard font dialog box.  This is useful if you need to select a script other than the default script.

Font Style Checkboxes

Check the appropriate styles (bold, italic, underline or strikeout)

Text Color Combobox

Select the color of the text.

Shadow Color Combobox

Select the color of the text shadow (when shadow is used).

Style Combobox

Select the style.  Additional sub-styles and parameters may be available depending on which style is chosen.

The Text (Wrap) is the default style and makes the text object wrap its text to the size of its bound.

The Text (No Wrap) style makes the text object display as it is entered without wrapping text.  On the screen portions of the text may not be shown if the object's bound is not large enough.  All text is printed on the printer regardless of the bound size though.

The Bar Code style makes a text object that displays its text as a bar code.  You must enter text that can be represented by the code.  The sub-styles specify the bar code type and whether text is displayed under the bar code.

The Arc Text style makes your text display in an arc.  The sub-styles specify full circle, 1/2 circle or 1/4 circle and the starting angle.

Shadow

Enter the X and Y offsets for the shadow.  These values are used to draw a shadow behind your text in the color you choose in the Shadow Color combobox.

Rotation

Select or enter the rotation of the text object in degrees (0-359).

Justification

Left	Left justified text (default)

Center	Centered text

Right	Right justified text


Line Properties

The Line tab contains options specific to line objects.

Color Combobox

Select the color of the line.

Line Type Radios

Select the type of line (horizontal, vertical, slanted up or slanted down).

Line Size Combobox

Select the width of the line.

Line Style Combobox

Select the style of the line.


Shape Properties

The Shape tab contains options specific to shape objects.

Color Combobox

Select the foreground color of the shape.

This is the color of the lines used to draw a filled or normal shape

For shadow style shapes this is the color of the shadow.

Background Combobox

Select the color of the inside of a filled or shadow shapes.

Line Size Combobox

Select the width of the lines used to draw the shape.

Style

Normal	Transparent background.

Filled	Filled background

Shadow	Shadow


Graphic Properties
Graphic Object Properties

The Graphic tab displays properties specific to graphic objects.

Because graphic objects can be scaled in the design area, it is sometimes hard to tell what the actual size of the graphic is in relation to what you see on the screen.  That is, the actual properties can be very different than the displayed properties of the graphic.  The graphic properties described below show the actual properties of the graphic.

Actual Size

- The actual width and height of the graphic in pixels.

Graphic Type

- The type of graphic (BMP, WMF, EMF).

Size

- The size of the graphic in bytes.

Color Depth

- The color depth of the graphic.

Picture... Button

Click this button to change the picture associated with the graphic object.

See Picking a Graphic for more information.

The following buttons allow you to adjust the size and aspect ration of the graphic:

  Correct the aspect ration based on the display width of the graphic.

  Correct the aspect ration based on the display height of the graphic.

  Adjust the graphic size so it is full size.


Undoing and Redoing Changes

     Select Edit|Undo or Edit|Redo

Use the Undo command to undo the last change you made.  Each time you Undo, one change will be undone in the exact reverse order they were made.

Use the Redo command to redo an undo you just made.


Zooming In and Out

      Select View|Zoom In or View|Zoom Out

Use the Zoom commands to zoom in or out on the design area.

Notes:

You can also use the zoom combobox and the zoom button on the Zoom toolbar to specify an exact zoom level.


Adjusting the Margins

Select Alignment|Margins

The margins are used as an aid to aligning objects in the design area.  Objects can be placed outside of the margins.

To set the margins perform the following steps:

1.  Select Alignment|Margins.

2.  Enter the left, right, top and bottom margins.

3.  Click OK.

Notes:

Margin settings are saved with the file.  Each file can have its own margin settings.

Margins are used for design-time alignment and to define the size of the background image.


Options

Select View|Options

General Options

Prompt when deleting an object

Check this option to prompt before deleting an object from your design.

Return to the select tool automatically

Check this option to automatically return to the select tool after you use the currently selected tool.  If this option is not checked the currently selected tool remains selected until you select another.

Metric Units

Check this option to use metric units in dialogs by default and on the rulers.

Reduce graphics to 256 colors

Check this option to reduce graphics to 256 colors.

Checking this option will reduce the size of your file without reducing print quality in most cases.

If you are using high quality graphics and a high quality printer you may want to uncheck this option.

You should also have your display set to at least 16-bit color if you uncheck this option and want the graphics to display correctly on the screen.  Printer output is not affected by your display color settings.

Show the Design Wizard when the application starts

Check this option to show the Design Wizard when the application starts.

The Design Wizard guides you through creation on a new design, quickly and easily.

Use last selected object's properties for next object inserted

Check this option to use the properties of the last selected object for the next object you insert.

For example it you select a red, bold Arial 10 pt. text object then insert another text object the text will default to red and bold with a font of 10 pt. Arial.

This is useful when you want to insert several objects that you want o look the same.

Grid Options

Grid Size

Enter the number of logical pixels between grid lines.

Display Grid

Check this option to display the grid on the screen.

Snap to Grid

Check this option to automatically align objects to the grid when they are inserted or moved.

Note:  The Display Grid option does not have to be checked to use the grid.

Printing Options

Print crop marks by default

Check this option to print crop marks on the printout by default.  This option can be overridden on the screen displayed before you actually print.

Crop marks are marks that are placed at the edge of the paper to show the position of each row and column to aid in cutting the stock.  Use crop marks and/or corner marks (see below) as a guide when cutting your own stock.

Print corner marks by default

Check this option to print corner marks on the printout by default.  This option can be overridden on the screen displayed before you actually print.

Corner marks are marks that are placed at the corner of each element to aid in cutting the stock.  Use corner marks and/or crop marks (see above) as a guide when cutting your own stock.

Set printer orientation and paper size automatically

Check this option to automatically select the paper type and switch the printer between portrait and landscape orientation.  The orientation is determined by the layout of the page.  If you have trouble printing try unselecting this option and choosing Printer Setup on the File menu to manually select the page size and orientation before printing.

Folders

The folders tab allows you to specify the starting folders to be used when opening and saving design files, when choosing graphic files, and when selecting linked database files.


Picking a Graphic

The Pick Graphic screen allows you to select a graphic from several sources as well as manipulate it by cropping. mirroring and rotating it.

An explanation of the available buttons on the Pick Graphic screen follows:

Load

- This button allows you to select a background image from a file.

Save

- This button allows you to save the current background as a file.

Acquire

- This button allows you to acquire a graphic from a twain compatible scanner, camera or other twain compliant data source.

Clear

- This button clears the graphic.

Mirror Horizontal

- This button flips the graphic up and down.

Mirror Vertical

- This button flips the graphic left and right.

Rotate

- This button rotates the graphic 90 degrees clockwise.

Crop

- The button removes all but the selected area in the graphic.  Before using this button you must click and drag within the preview image to select an area you want to keep.


Regions

*** This feature is not available in some Designer Series products ***

Regions are different sections of a design that you can design independently.  Most designs have two regions, the Front and the Back. Folded designs may have more regions.  For example, a folded business card has three regions, the Cover, the Inside Cover and the Inside.

When a design is created, its Primary Region is initially displayed.  The primary region is the region that normally has most of the information on it.  On most designs this is the Front region.  On some folded designs it can be the Inside region or some other region.

You can easily switch regions by selecting the region in the region bar in the main window as shown below.

Each region is designed independently and when you choose to print they are combined and printed in the proper location and side of the paper stock.


Switching to a Different Layout

Select File|Switch To Different Layout

The Switch to Different Layout command lets you switch the layout of a design you already have created so that it will print correctly on a different paper stock.  You can switch to any layout that is already defined or create a new layout to switch to.


Choosing a Symbol

The Choose Symbol screen allows you to select a symbol for the text in a text object.  Symbols are simply single characters from special fonts which are designed to be used as symbols.  What symbol fonts are available depends on what is installed on your system.

To select a symbol perform the following steps:

1.  Select the font from the drop down list of available symbol fonts.

2.  Select the symbol from the drop down list.

3.  Click OK.


Transferring and Re-Installing

It is highly recommended that you print this topic so you have it in the event of a system crash.

This topic describes the steps you need to take to re-install this product on the same computer after a system crash or on a different computer.  The information below assumes that your computer is in running condition and any system problems have already been resolved.

You will need the following before continuing:

1.  Your license information sent to you when you purchased.  You were instructed to print this sheet and retain it for future reference when you originally purchased.

2.  The installation file for the same major version you purchased.  The version you are licensed for is shown with your license information.  If you are purchased version 6, your license information will work with 6.1.0.0, 6.2.0.0, etc. but will not work with any other version.

NOTE: If you need another copy of the install file please visit our website.  If you are licensed for the latest version you can download the install file from the main download area.  If you are licensed for an older version and do not wish to upgrade to the latest (a small charge applies), then you can download the major version you registered from the Licensed User Page.  In all cases you will be downloading the trial version, which you will convert into the full version using your license information after it is installed.

3.  A Backup of your data file(s).  See the FAQ section for information on the names and location of data files.

Once you have the install file and your license information you can install the software on your repaired or new computer by running the installation file.  Once installed, run the software from the Start Menu and click the "Enter ID" button on the introduction screen to enter your license information and activate the full version.  Be sure to enter your license information EXACTLY as given to you, following the instructions given to you.

If your license information is not accepted you have the wrong major version (or product) installed.  Please see item 2 above.

At this point you should have the software installed and registered on your new or repaired computer.  If you have any existing designs you will need to restore them from a backup or transfer them to your new computer.

Once the files are available please see Opening an Existing Design to open an existing design.


Importing Data into the Personal Databases

To import records into the a Personal Database from a comma delimited text file perform the following steps:

1.  Click the Import [image] button.

2.  Select the comma delimited text file to import.

3.  Match the fields to import by selecting the field name in the left list and the corresponding field in the right list and clicking the > button.

4.  Click the Import button.


Exporting Records from a Personal Database

To export records from a database to a comma delimited text file perform the following steps:

1.  Select the database you wish to export from the tabs on the left.

2.  Click the Export [image] button.

2.  Select the file to save the records in.

3.  Click Save.


The Linked Database Wizard

Select Edit|Linked Database

The Linked Database Wizard guides you through the steps of selecting an linking a database to your design.

USING THE LINKED DATABASE WIZARD

STEP 1

1.  Select the type of database you want to link to

- Link to a Personal Database, TXT or CSV File

Select this option to link to one of your personal database files or a TXT or CSV comma delimited text file.  Personal Database files are maintained by the Personal Database applet included with this product (Personal Databases on the View menu)

- Create a new Database Link File

Select this option to create a new database link (.DLF) file and link to an external database through ADO or ODBC.  A data link file is simply a file that contains information on how to connect to an external database.  It does not contain any actual data but you can link to it to access the data in the database it describes.

- Use an Existing Data Link File

Select the options to link to an existing database link (.DLF) file that you have previously created using the option above.

2.  Click Next

STEP 2

1.  Enter or select a file name.

If you are linking to an exisiting database or Data Link File select that file.

If you are creating a new Database Link File then choose a folder and enter a name for the data link, click the Build Connection button to build your database connection then select the table. (Click Help on the Data Link Properties screen for additional help.)

2.  Click Next

STEP 3

1.  Specify the type of record selection.

- I want to use all records directly from the database

Select this option to incude all records in the database.

- I want to filter and/or sort the records in the database.

Select this option to specify condiions which a record has to meet to be included and/or to specify sorting options.

2.  Click Next or Finish

STEP 4 (if you selected filtering/sorting only)

1.  Select the field you want to compare

2.  Select the type of comparison:

=	This comparison equates to true when the field is exactly the same as the comparision value

<	This comparison equates to true when the field is less than the comparision value

>	This comparison equates to true when the field is greater than the comparision value

LIKE	This comparision equates to true when the field is similar to the comparision value.  There are two special wilcard characters used with LIKE, % and _  % represents zero or more wilcard characters and _ represents exactly one wildcard character.

For example:

Name LIKE 'Pa_' is true when Name is Pam, Pat, Pan, Paw, etc.

Name LIKE 'To%' is true when Name is Tom, Tommy, Top, To, Tomali, etc.

Name LIKE '%a%' is true when Name is cat, dad, daddy, ash or any word than contains the letter a

3.  Enter the value the field should be compared to

3.  Click Add Condition

4.  Optionally click Add AND or Add OR to add additional conditions then repeat steps 1 - 3

5.  Click Next

STEP 4 (if you selected filtering/sorting only)

1.  Select the field you want to filter

2.  Select either Ascending or Descending

3.  Click Add Sort Criteria

4.  Optionally repeat steps 1 - 3 to add additional sort criteria.

5.  Click Next

Notes:

Database and Data Link files are stored, by default, in the database folder specified on the Folders tab under Options on the View menu.  You can change this setting or override the location when you select or specify the filename.


The Field Wizard

The Field Wizard allows you to select a database field or to build a complex field for a linked database.  A complex field is a combination of one or more database fields and possibly other text.  For example, Name: + {-First_Name-} + + {-Last_Name-}  is an example of a complex field that would display "Name:" followed by the full name.

To select a database field perform the following steps:

1.  Select the field under "Add a Database Field."

2.  Click Add Field

3.  Click Finish

To build a complex field perform the following steps:

1.  Select the field under "Add a Database Field."

-OR-

Enter text under "Add Other Text."

2.  Click Add Field or Add Text

3.  Click Add New Line if you want to add a new line (this causes the next item you add to be displayed on the next line).

4.  Click Add Space if you want to add a space.

5.  Repeat steps 1-4 as needed.

6.  Click Finish

Notes:

You can click the [image] button to insert full standard address without picking and adding individual fields.


General Database Information

A database is a source of information on your computer.  Text objects in your design can be linked to a database to display information from the database on the each element printed.

There are many types of databases.  The personal database included with this product creates databases in .DAT files.  Standard Comma Delimited Text (.TXT or .CSV) can be considered databases.  There are also Access, DBASE, Oracle, Sybase, Paradox and many other type databases.

Support for the Personal Database and comma delimited text files is built right in.  Additionally you can link to any other database your computer is capable of connecting to through Microsoft's ADO or ODBC standards.

Databases contain records.  Each record represents one item in the database.  For example, for a database containing names and addresses, each record would contain all the information about a single contact.

Records contain fields.  In the example above each record might contain a first name field, a last name field, an address field, etc.

When you link a text object in your design to a database, the text object displays one or more fields from a record.  The text from the corresponding field in the first record is printed on the first element you print, the text from the second record is printed on the second element, the third on the third, and so on.

Also See:

The Linked Database Wizard

The Field Wizard


Frequently Asked Questions

For regularly updated Frequently Asked Questions and Answers please visit our website at:

http://www.camdevelopment.com/support.htm


Importing an Existing Design

  Select File|Import

The import command allows you to import designs created with other products.  This saves you the work of re-creating the design you already have made.

To import a design perform the following steps:

1.  Select File|Import

2.  Select the file to import.

3.  Click OK.

After your design is imported it may require some minor adjustments then you can save it in the new format by selecting Save As on the File menu.


Welcome

Thank you for using Label Designer Plus DELUXE

We hope you enjoy using this product and hope that it meets your every need.  We have worked extremely hard to make Label Designer Plus DELUXE everything our customers want it to be and continue to strive to make it a better product each day.

A single, powerful product for all your labeling needs!  Label Designer Plus DELUXE allows you to create great looking Address and Shipping Labels, CD/DVD Labels and Inserts, Envelopes, Post Cards, Name Badges, Signs and other media labels for audio tapes, diskettes, ZIP disks, file folders, and more.  With the same proven user interface from our Designer Series products, DELUXE is easy to use for beginners, yet powerful enough for experts.

CREATE GREAT LOOKING LABELS - Use the wide variety of tools to add text, graphics, shapes, barcodes, shadows, arc text and other effects to your design.  Vary the color and style of any object for an endless array of possibilities.

SUPPORT FOR VIRTUALLY ALL STOCK (US AND METRIC) - Select an existing layout or add your own for any stock you want to print.   Use standard stock or define your own.

LINK DESIGNS TO VIRTUALLY ANY DATABASE - Link to the built in Personal Database or any comma-delimited text or CSV file or use ADO and ODBC to link to external databases.   Use the Field Wizard to create multi-line complex fields such as complete addresses and full names.  Use the built-in database filtering to select and print only records that meet selected criteria.

GET IT DONE FAST! - Use the Design Wizard to get started in a matter of seconds.  Once you basic design is created tweak it as needed or print it just the way it is.

If you have a problem, question, comment or suggestion or just wish a feature could be added or improved we encourage you to visit the support page on our website to find a solution to your problem or an answer to your question immediately.  You can also contact us directly if you need additional help or want to send us a comment or suggestion.  Please visit the support page at:

http://www.camdevelopment.com/support.htm

If you have not already purchased a license, please consider doing so.  As a licensed user you will enjoy many benefits and will be able to continue using Label Designer Plus DELUXE forever without any time or feature limitations.  You can securely purchase a license by clicking the Purchase button on the Purchase Reminder screen displayed when the application starts, or directly from our website at:

http://www.camdevelopment.com/purchase.htm

Sincerely,

The Label Designer Plus Team

For more information on this and all our other fine products please visit our website at:

http://www.camdevelopment.com

NOTE:  Some features are only available in certain products in the Designer Series so this help file may contain topics that do not pertain to the product you have.  This pertains to a very small number of features only.


Purchase Wizard Help

The Purchase Wizard guides you through the process of registering our products.

If you have trouble ordering please contact us at:

sales@camdevelopment.com