Click on Summary to display help topics


Welcome to AX-Icons

AX-Icons is a user-friendly icon library management tool for Windows 95. It can be used by anyone, its editor allowing instant creation of icons in 16x16, 32x32, 48x48, 64x64, 72x72  format (and also custom sizes), using different color palettes: Monochrome, 16 colors, 256 colors (dithered), 256 colors (indexed) or true colors (16.8 million). You can also create multiple images icons. It offers a large collection of tools, including tools for drawing circles, lines, rectangles, ovals, etc.

Along with these basic functions, the editor offers linear gradient (vertical and horizontal), radial gradient, vertical and horizontal permutation, 90° icon rotation, writing text in icon, your choice of color combinations, your own color palettes, and icon capture. Cut, Copy, and Paste functions are available, with the option to scale the icon at paste time. You can import an image in BMP, or JPEG format into the editor.

AX-Icons supports creation, deletion, copying and moving of icons, along with library management. You can add to existing icon libraries or create your own icon files, export and import icons from a library into a file in ICL  format. You can even drag and drop from one library to another. AX-Icons can open multiple documents, and it allows modification of icons in program files (*.EXE; *.DLL, *.OCX, .CPL; *.DRV).

AX-Icons is also an icons libraries manager. You can read/write .ICL libraries, manage a librarian (drag and drop), export, import etc... You can even customize  the Windows work environment by drag and drop (Change standard icons,  workstation, trashcan, modify the icons size, colors, ...)

With AX-Icons, you can compile self-executable libraries and redistribute them free. The user of this compiling version can read, print or extract icons from the library and also customize Windows.

In short, AX-Icons is a powerful, user-friendly tool meant for both end-users and professionals.

We at AXIALIS hope you will enjoy AX-Icons, and will find it adapted to your needs. We offer it as a sample of our software competence.


Distribution of AX-Icons
Distribution

You are hereby licensed to make as many copies of the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION as you wish and distribute it to anyone provided that all files are intact. You must distribute the install form of the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION (you must distribute the file INSTALL.EXE, not the files resultin of an installation). You are not allowed to sell the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION (except for shipment and handling charges). Computer's Magazines are authorized to distribute it on any Cover Disk or CD-ROM without any permission. Please inform us by email (CompuServe : 100072,36 or Internet : martine@axialis.com) each time you distribute the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION.

DISTRIBUTION IN FRANCE:

If you wish to distribute the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION in France (including but not limited to CD-ROM, Disks...) you MUST OBTAIN A WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM AXIALIS.

Si vous souhaitez distribuer la version SHAREWARE en France par quelque moyen que ce soit (sans que cette liste soit exhaustive : CD-ROM, disquettes, sites WEB à diffusion française ou localisée en France...) vous DEVEZ IMPERATIVEMENT OBTENIR UNE AUTORISATION ECRITE DE LA PART D‘AXIALIS SA.


International Vendors

Registrations may also be ordered from the following list of authorized Resellers :

JAPAN

P&A Shareware

1-3-6-2 Kamisunacho

Tachikawa, Tokyo

190 JAPAN

Fax: +81 (0) 425-46-9142

Phone: +81 (0) 425-46-9141

USA

PsL

P.O. Box 35705

Houston, TX 77235-5705

Fax : 713-524-6398

Phone : 800-242-4775 or 713-524-6394

Please use the following PsL IDs to order Axialis AX Icons 4.0 : 11572

Please see vendor for pricing.

You will receive your Registering Number by mail within 10 working days.


Pricing

All the Axialis products have the same price. These prices are given in French Francs (Axialis SA is a French corporate). See the list below for an approximate conversion in your currency (this may vary with the rate of exchange).

To get the latest pricing conversion you can visit our Pricing Web Page : Pricing Web Page

Personal Registering

Personal registering means that you will receive a registration number by mail or e-mail (by automatic e-mail if you have chosen Secure Online Ordering) to unlock your Shareware version. With this number you will be able to prevent the shareware screen from displaying at start-up. Prices are given for each copy of the ordered program.

French Francs	US Dollars	Sterling	Deutch Marks

85 FF(*)	14.00$	8.50£	25.20DM

(*) Postage costs : add 15 FF to the global price if you ordered by mail or fax (not applicable for Secure Online Ordering).

Site License (10 copies or more)

Site license means that you will receive a full version of the program on a 3.5 inch diskette. You will be authorized to install the program on several computers according to the number of copies you ordered. Prices are given for each copy of the ordered program and for copies of the same program only.

Copies	French Francs	US Dollars	Sterling	Deutch Marks

10 to 24	55.00 FF(*)	9.10 $	5.50 £	16.30 DM

25 to 49	47.00 FF(*)	7.80 $	4.70 £	13.90 DM

59 to 99	40.00 FF(*)	6.60 $	4.00 £	11.90 DM

100 +	35.00 FF(*)	5.80 $	3.50 £	10.40 DM

 (*) Price per copy. Shipping Costs : add 35 FF to the global price.


User Licence Agreement
User License Agreement for Axialis Software

This user license agreement  (the AGREEMENT) is an agreement between you (individual or single entity) and AXIALIS, for the AXIALIS software (the SOFTWARE) that is accompanying this AGREEMENT.

The SOFTWARE is the property of AXIALIS and is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties. The SOFTWARE is not sold, it is licensed.

LICENSED VERSION

The LICENSED VERSION means a Registered Shareware Version (using your personal registration number) or an original fully working version of the SOFTWARE. If you accepts the terms and conditions of this AGREEMENT, you have certain rights and obligations as follow:

YOU MAY:

1.	Install and use one copy of the SOFTWARE on a single computer.

2.	Install a second copy of the SOFTWARE on a second computer only if you are the main user of this computer (home computer or laptop for example).

3.	Install the SOFTWARE on another computer only if you change of main workstation. In such a case you must uninstall the software from the old computer.

4.	Use the SOFTWARE via a network, only if you have purchased a site license. The number of users must not exceed the number of stations specified in your site license.

5.	Make a copy of the SOFTWARE for archival purposes only.

YOU MAY NOT:

1.	Copy and distribute the SOFTWARE or any portion of it.

2.	Sublicense, rent, lease or transfer your personal registering number.

3.	Sublicense, rent or lease the SOFTWARE or any portion of it.

4.	Decompile, disassemble, reverse engineer or modify the SOFTWARE or any portion of it.

5.	Copy the documentation accompanying the SOFTWARE.

UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION

The UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION means an Original Shareware Version of the SOFTWARE that has not been registered by a registering number.

YOU MAY:

1.	Install and use an unlimited number of copies the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION for a trial period of 30 days.

2.	Make a copy of the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION for archival purposes only.

YOU MAY NOT:

1.	Sublicense, rent or lease the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION or any portion of it.

2.	Decompile, disassemble, reverse engineer or modify the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION or any portion of it.

3.	Copy the documentation accompanying the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION.

4.	Use the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION after your trial period of 30 days.

DISTRIBUTION:

You are hereby licensed to make as many copies of the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION as you wish and distribute it to anyone provided that all files are intact. You must distribute the install form of the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION (you must distribute the file INSTALL.EXE, not the files resultin of an installation). You are not allowed to sell the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION (except for shipment and handling charges). Computer's Magazines are authorized to distribute it on any Cover Disk or CD-ROM without any permission. Please inform us by email (CompuServe : 100072,36 or Internet : martine@axialis.com) each time you distribute the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION.

DISTRIBUTION IN FRANCE:

If you wish to distribute the UNREGISTERED SHAREWARE VERSION in France (including but not limited to CD-ROM, Disks…) you MUST OBTAIN A WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM AXIALIS.

Si vous souhaitez distribuer la version SHAREWARE en France par quelque moyen que ce soit (sans que cette liste soit exhaustive : CD-ROM, disquettes, sites WEB à diffusion française ou localisée en France...) vous DEVEZ IMPERATIVEMENT OBTENIR UNE AUTORISATION ECRITE DE LA PART D‘AXIALIS SA.

WARRANTY DISCLAIMER

The SOFTWARE is supplied "AS IS". AXIALIS disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any purpose. The user must assume the entire risk of using the SOFTWARE.

DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES

AXIALIS assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of the SOFTWARE, even if AXIALIS has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Any liability of the seller will be limited to refund the purchase price.


Ordering information

You will find here all of the information you need to place an order.

SECURE ON LINE ORDERING

MasterCard or VISA orders can be placed via AXIALIS secure web server.

With Secure Online Ordering you will receive your registration number instantly by e-mail and unlock your Shareware version in a few minutes !

Click here to Enter the Internet Secure Order Form NOW!

Important:

The Secure Online Ordering allows you to place a personal registering order ONLY.

PERSONAL OR SITE LICENSE ORDER

You can place two kinds of purchase orders :

Personal Registering Order

Personal registering means that you will receive one or more registration number(s) by post, e-mail or fax in order to unlock your Shareware version. With this number you will be able to prevent the shareware screen from displaying at start-up.

Important:

To place such a purchase order you must have downloaded and installed a Shareware version of the program on your computer. In fact, when you launch the shareware version, a window called "Shareware registration" opens at startup. You will use this window to enter your registration number and unlock your program.

Site License Order

Site license order is made for a company which wants to install 10 or more copies on its computers. When you send a site license order you receive a full version of the program on a 3.5 inch diskette. You will be authorized to install the program on several computers according to the number of copies you ordered.

ORDERING BY CREDIT CARD

For payment by credit card we strongly recommend you to use the Secure Online Ordering (fast and sure).

Using credit card you can place Personal Registering Order or Site License Order. You can send us your order by fax or mail.

Fax orders

Please send your fax order form to : + 33 1 42 15 08 85

Mail orders

Please send your mail order form to :

AXIALIS SA
1, rue de Stockholm
75008 Paris - FRANCE

You will receive your Registering Number by mail within 10 working days.

ORDERING BY CHECK

Payments by check must be in French Francs drawn on a French bank and payable to AXIALIS SA.

To order by check, send the order form and a check to :

AXIALIS SA
1, rue de Stockholm
75008 Paris - FRANCE

You will receive your Registering Number by mail within 10 working days.

COMPUSERVE REGISTRATION

To have the registration fee added to your CompuServe bill simply GO SWREG on CompuServe and follow the menus to register the product.

Choose the product Axialis AX Icons 4.0 using this CompuServe ID : 2891

The price is $19.95. You will receive your Registering Number by e-mail within 5 working days.

ORDERING VIA AUTHORIZED VENDORS

Registrations may also be ordered from the following list of authorized Resellers :

JAPAN

P&A Shareware

1-3-6-2 Kamisunacho

Tachikawa, Tokyo

190 JAPAN

Fax: +81 (0) 425-46-9142

Phone: +81 (0) 425-46-9141

USA

PsL

P.O. Box 35705

Houston, TX 77235-5705

Fax : 713-524-6398

Phone : 800-242-4775 or 713-524-6394

Please use the following PsL IDs to order Axialis AX Icons 4.0 : 11572

Please see vendor for pricing.

You will receive your Registering Number by mail within 10 working days.

PRICING

All the Axialis products have the same price. These prices are given in French Francs (Axialis SA is a French corporate). See the list below for an approximate conversion in your currency (this may vary with the rate of exchange).

To get the latest pricing conversion you can visit our Pricing Web Page : Pricing Web Page

Personal Registering

Personal registering means that you will receive a registration number by mail or e-mail (by automatic e-mail if you have chosen Secure Online Ordering) to unlock your Shareware version. With this number you will be able to prevent the shareware screen from displaying at start-up. Prices are given for each copy of the ordered program.

French Francs	US Dollars	Sterling	Deutch Marks

85 FF(*)	14.00$	8.50£	25.20DM

(*) Postage costs : add 15 FF to the global price if you ordered by mail or fax (not applicable for Secure Online Ordering).

Site License (10 copies or more)

Site license means that you will receive a full version of the program on a 3.5 inch diskette. You will be authorized to install the program on several computers according to the number of copies you ordered. Prices are given for each copy of the ordered program and for copies of the same program only.

Copies	French Francs	US Dollars	Sterling	Deutch Marks

10 to 24	55.00 FF(*)	9.10 $	5.50 £	16.30 DM

25 to 49	47.00 FF(*)	7.80 $	4.70 £	13.90 DM

59 to 99	40.00 FF(*)	6.60 $	4.00 £	11.90 DM

100 +	35.00 FF(*)	5.80 $	3.50 £	10.40 DM

(*) Price per copy. Shipping Costs : add 35 FF to the global price.


Copyright, authors

Axialis AX-Icons 4.0

for Windows 95 & NT 4.0

“The Icon Editor and Library Manager for Windows”

(c) 1997 Axialis SA - All Rights Reserved

Authors :	Martine BOCCANFUSO

Marc EMILE

Willliam et Sarah

WARNING: This computer program is protected by copyright law and international treaties. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this program in its licensed version, or any portion of it, may result in severe civil and criminal penalties, and will be prosecuted to the maximum extent possible under the law. Your Registration Number is strictly Personal and is not transferable to anyone.

AXIALIS, for user-friendly software.


Uninstall AX-Icons 4.0 for Windows 95

Open Start in Windows task bar

Choose Parameters

Choose Control Panel

Choose Add/Delete programs

Choose in the list : Axialis AX-Icons 4.0 for Windows 95

Click on the Add/Delete button

Continue Install procedure


Creating a new icon

Choose File/New icon

A new icon 32x32, 16 colors displays in the editor. You are now ready to create your icon.


Creating a new image format

Choose Draw/New image Format

In the Size group, choose:

16x16, 32x32, 48x48, 64x64 or 72x72 pixels

In the Colors group, choose:

Monochrome (1 bit)

16 colors (4bits)

256 colors (dithered)

256 colors (Indexed)

true colors (16.8 million)

In the Personalized Size Group, choose:

Width

Height

If you want the height equal to width, choose "Square aspect"

A list of all image formats is displayed.


Deleting an image format in icon
Deleting an image format in an icon

Choose Draw/Deleting image format

 Related Topics


Selecting an image format

Choose Draw/Image format

A list of image format is displayed. Choose one of format and OK.

 Related Topics


Opening an icon file

Choose File/Open

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type that you want to select from the File Type Drop Down box (.ICO)

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

Remark

The contents of each icon file is displayed.


Closing an icon file

Choose File/Close

Remark

AX-Icons will ask you whether you want to save it.


Saving the content of the editor as an .ICO
Saving the contents of the editor as an .ICO file

Choose File/Save

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the filename for the new icon in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICO) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.

Click on the Save button.

Note : If the filename is already in use, AX-Icons will present a prompt. Click on the Yes button to overwrite the existing file.


Adding an icon in the librarian

Open an icon file (.ICO)

Select the librarian

Choose File/Add to the librarian


Printing the content of the edit window
Printing the contents of the edit window

Open the icon file (.ICO)

Choose File/Print


Print preview the content of the edit windows
Print preview the contents of the edit window

Choose File/Print preview

The file will be displayed exactly as it will be printed.

If appropriate, click on the buttons Page up, Page down, Zoom+, Zoom- or Page to change pages, or display or zoom in on a page

If you are satisfied, click on the Print button

 Related Topics


Setting printer parameters

Choose File/Page Setup

 Related Topics


Moving/Copying part of a drawing without using clipboard
Moving/copying part of a drawing without using the clipboard

AX-Icons lets you use drag and drop to move or copy part of a drawing without using the clipboard. The technique involves selecting an image region and moving or copying it while holding down a mouse button (press CTRL to copy) then releasing the button at the desired location. The mouse pointer changes to a cross during the operation

To move/copy part of a drawing without using the clipboard

Select the drawing region with the selection tool

Move the pointer inside the selection. The pointer changes to a movement cross (with 4 arrows)

To move the selection to the desired location, drag while holding down the left mouse button

-or-

To copy the selection to the desired location, drag while simultaneously pressing the left mouse button and CTRL

Remark

The original selection area is painted the right mouse button color when you move or copy the region.


Cut/Copy/Paste part of an image

The cut/copy/paste functions are used mainly to communicate with other Windows programs.

Important

An icon is composed of two bitmaps (one bitmap for the 16, 256 or 16.8 million colors and one for inverted and transparent colors). Given that the document can only deal with a single bitmap, AX-Icons has chosen to keep the bitmap color in cut/copy/paste operations. Inverted and Transparent colors will thus be affected. Inverted becomes white and Transparent becomes black.

To move part of a drawing

Select part or all of the icon with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Cut

You can select any drawing area with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Paste

The Paste options dialog box appears

Different options are available:

Paste 1:1 in upper left of window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing to the upper left area of the editor window in 1:1 scale

Resize image to fit window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing, adjusting its size to that of the editor window

Paste 1:1 to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area with the selection tool. It allows you to insert the cut or copied drawing, in 1:1 scale, in the selection area

Resize image to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing adjusting its size to that of the selection area

To copy part of a drawing

Select the part to be copied with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Copy

You can select a drawing area with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Paste

The Paste options dialog box appears

Different options are available:

Paste 1:1 in upper left of window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing to the upper left area of the editor window in 1:1 scale

Resize image to fit window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied, drawing adjusting its size to that of the editor window

Paste 1:1 to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area with the selection tool. It allows you to insert the cut or copied drawing, in 1:1 scale, in the selection area

Resize image to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing adjusting its size to that of the selection area


Capturing icon

Icon capture allows you to photograph an icon-sized region of the screen (16x16, 32x32, 48x48, or 64x64 pixels). If you select Draw/Capture icon, this command displays the following message in the edit area:

"Use Drag and drop on this area to capture the icon"

The pointer and the application window change to a square with a camera beneath it. Move the square to the screen area you want to photograph and click on the left mouse button. The selected screen area is captured into the editor.

To capture an icon

Choose Draw/Capture icon or F9

AX-Icons disappears and the pointer changes to a square underlined with a camera.
Select the desired screen area with the pointer, then click on the left mouse button

The screen area selected is captured.

You can now modify this icon, create your own .ICO file, or add it to the selected librarian


Standard and customized palettes

AX-Icons supplies a standard palette with 48 colors. You can customize this palette by creating your own colors using RGB values or the standard Windows dialog box. You can also work with and customize a 256 color palette with dithering, 256 pure colors (indexed) or 16.8 million colors (true colors).

To modify a color in a customized palette

Select the color in the palette

Double-click on this color or choose Options/Modify color. The standard Windows "Color" box opens.

Modify your color using the scroll box or in the color box

If you want add the customized color

Click on the <Add color>. button and the color will be automatically placed in your customized color palette, replacing the color selected in the standard palette.

To restore the standard palette

Choose Options/Standard palette

Important

AX-Icons automatically saves the customized color palette. However, if you use the command Options/Standard palette, a message will indicate that this option is not reversible and will clear your customized palette. You will then be asked to confirm.


Opening a color palette

AX-Icons allows you to create and  work with your own customized color palette.

Choose Options/Open palette

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type from the File Type Drop Dow box.

PAL (if you use 16 or 256 colors “dithering” or in 16.8 million colors “true colors”

PA8 (if you use 256 pure colors)

Click on the palette file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

The palette opens automatically and is linked to the edit window.


Saving a color palette

AX-Icons allows you to customize and save as many color palettes as you like.

To save a 16, 256 (dithering - 8 bits) or 16.8 Million color palette

Modify the customized color palette . (See [image] Related Topics)

Select or create the file’s folder from the Look in Drop Down box

Enter the filename for the new palette in the File Name Text Box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.PAL) automatically in the File Type Drop down box.

Click on the Save button.

Note : If the filename is already in use, AX-Icons will present a prompt. Click on the Yes button to overwrite the existing file.

To save a 16 or 256 color (indexed) palette

Modify the customized color palette (See [image] Related Topics)

Select or create the file’s folder from the Look in Drop Down box

Enter the filename for the new palette in the File Name Text Box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.PA8) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.

Click on the Save button.

Note : If the filename is already in use, AX-Icons will present a prompt. Click on the Yes button to overwrite the existing file.


Creating color gradations
Creating gradient

Create an icon with 256 colors (indexed)

Select a color with the left mouse button

Select another color with the right mouse button

Choose Options/Create gradient

You are asked to confirm:

Do you really want to create a gradient in the current icon palette (from foreground color to background color?

Click on YES. The gradient  is automatically displayed in the palette.


The transparency of the image

Transparency is especially useful when you move or copy an object. For this operation, pure colors are normally used.

Example:

Draw a filled blue square. Inside it draw a filled yellow circle.

At the bottom right of the editing area, draw a filled green rectangle.

Now you want to move the yellow circle into the green rectangle.

Select the yellow circle. Using the right mouse button, choose the color blue as background color.

Click on the Transparency icon or Choose Draw/Image transparency or type CTRL+T

Now you can move or copy the selection to the green rectangle while holding down the CTRL key.

The blue color is substituted for the transparent color in the green rectangle.


Importing an image into an icon

You can import an image in .JPEG, .BMP, DIB or RLE format into the edit window.

Choose Draw/Import image

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type from the File Type Drop Dow box.

BMP, DIB, RLE JPG

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

A checkbox Preview allows you to visualize the image.

The image is imported into the edit window as an icon.

Important

If the image to be imported does not have the same color palette as the icon in the current edit window, AX-Icons asks you if you want to replace the current icon palette by the palette attached to the image being pasted.


Drawing tools

Selection
Color Picker
Color Peplacer
Pencil
Brush
Flood fill
Straight line
3D Frame
Rectangle
Filled rectangle
Ellipse
Filled ellipse
 Related Topics


The Selection tool allows you to define a region of the icon in the editor in order to copy, cut or paste it. The cursor changes to a cross. Position the cross in the upper left corner of the desired region, then hold down the left mouse button and drag to the diagonally opposite corner. Release the left mouse button when you have selected the desired region


The Color Picker tool allows you to pick up a color from the editing surface by clicking with the left mouse button for a foreground color and the right button for a background color.


The Color Replacer tool allows you to rub out the foreground color and replace it by the background color. The cursor changes to an eraser.


The Pencil tool allows you to apply color as you would with a pencil. The cursor changes to a pencil in the editor. The thickness depends on the type of line selected.

Choose any two colors in the standard or customized palette. Click on the right or left mouse button to use one of the colors to draw one pixel of the desired color, or drag the mouse around in the workspace to color the pixels under the pencil.


The Brush tool allows you to draw color with different brush shapes and thicknesses (Fine, Medium square, Large square, Small circle, Medium circle, Large circle).


The Flood Fill tool allows you to color an enclosed region. The cursor changes to a paint bucket with a cross. The cross serves as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Click on the left or right mouse button for the color you want. Position the cross inside an enclosed surface. All the pixels of the enclosed region will be filled with the selected color.

Note:

It is possible to apply horizontal or vertical gradients. Just choose two colors in the palette and assign them respectively to the left and right mouse buttons. If you choose the left mouse button, the horizontal/vertical gradient will be from the left button color to the right button color. If you choose the right mouse button, the horizontal/vertical gradient will be from the right button color to the left button color.


The Line tool allows you to draw straight lines. The editor cursor changes to a line, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Click on the left or right mouse button for the desired color. Position the cross at the point where the line is to begin and then drag the mouse to the other end of the line.


The 3D Frame tool allows you to draw a button with a 3D look. You can also choose different forms and thicknesses. The cursor changes to a filled circle, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer.


The rectangle tool allows you to draw rectangle contours with a line thickness of 1, 2, or 3 pixels. The cursor changes to an empty square, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Select the desired color. Place the cross at the point where you want one corner of the rectangle, then, holding down the left mouse button, drag the pointer to the diagonally opposite corner. Release the button when you have the desired rectangle.


The Filled rectangle tool allows you to draw solid squares or rectangles. The cursor changes to a filled square, initially a cross. The cross serves as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Select the desired color. Place the cross at one corner of the rectangle, then, holding down the left mouse button, drag the pointer to the diagonally opposite corner. Release the button when you have the desired rectangle.

Note:

It is possible to apply horizontal or vertical gradients. Just choose two colors in the palette and assign them respectively to the left and right mouse buttons. If you press the left mouse button, the horizontal/vertical gradient  will be from the left color to the right color. If you press the right button, the horizontal/vertical gradient  will be from the right to the left color.


The ellipse tool allows you to draw circles or ellipses with a contour 1, 2 or 3 pixels thick. The cursor changes to an empty circle, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Drawing proceeds as with the square or filled square tool.


The Filled ellipse tool allows you to draw solid circles and ellipses with a contour 1, 2, or 3 pixels thick. The cursor changes to a filled circle, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Drawing proceeds as with the square or filled rectangle tool.


Brushes

Fine (1 pixel)
Medium square (3 pixels)
Large square (5 pixels)
Extra large square (7 pixels)
Small circle (1pixel radius)
Medium circle (3 pixels radius)
Large circle (5 pixels radius)
Extra large circle (7 pixels radius)
Right oblique
Left oblique
Medium diamond (3 pixels)
Large diamond (5 pixels)
 Related Topics


Color fill types

Solid color
Vertical gradient
Horizontal gradient
Radial gradient


Drawing options

Vertical mirror
Horizontal mirror
90° rotation
Writing
Grid
Invert colors
 Related Topics


Allows vertical permutation of selected icon region


Allows horizontal permutation of selected icon region


Allows 90 degree rotation of the whole icon


Allows to write in an icon

Choose Draw/Writing

Enter the text

Choose the Font and Size

Choose OK


Allows you to display a grid in the editor


Inverts the colors in the selected icon region (negative image)


Zooming in the edit window

Increasing the scale at which the image is displayed

Choose Display/Zoom in

The scale at which the image is displayed is increased. The scale is displayed in the status bar.

Reducing the scale at which the image is displayed

Choose Display/Zoom out

The scale at which the image is displayed is reduced. The scale is displayed in the status bar.

Displaying in automatic zoom

Choose Display/ Automatic Zoom

Resizes the editor to the size of the window


Reorganizing windows

The window/New window commands opens  a new edit window

This option is indispensable if you want to redisplay the contents of the same edit window or if you want to copy or move part of an image from one location to another in the same window.

The Cascade command displays windows in a stack, one behind the other. The window titles remain visible, but the contents may be hidden.

The Tile command distributes the display area between all windows so that all contents are totally visible.


Reorganizing icons

Choose Window/Reorganize icons

Reorganizes icons at the bottom of the window.


Reorganizing full window

Choose Window/Reorganize full window

Reorganizes the desktop full window.

Note:

If you choose the option Automatic reorganization, all opened windows will be displayed full screen.


Horizontal reorganization

Choose Window/Horizontal reorganization

Reorganizes your desktop using a horizontal separation

Note:

If you choose the option Automatic reorganization, all opened windows will be reorganized horizontally.


Vertical reorganization

Choose Window/Vertical reorganization

Reorganizes your desktop using a vertical separation

Note;

If you choose the option Automatic reorganization, all opened windows will be reorganized vertically.


Automatic reorganization

Choose Window/Automatic reorganization

Toggles automatic reorganization during use on/off


Reorganizing desktop

Choose Window/Reorganize desktop

Reorganizes the desktop ergonomically


Customizing AX-Icons
AX-Icons general preferences

Choose Options/Preferences

1.	 In GENERAL tab

The Create new icon at startup checkbox allows you to create a 16 color 32x32 default icon

The Reorganize desktop at startup checkbox allows you to automatically reorganize the desktop (Edit window, Library, Drawing tool palette, tools, etc.)

The Confirm before saving libraries checkbox allows you to require confirmation before a modified library can be saved

The Minimize system resources checkbox allows minimization of memory use in display of lists in libraries. This means that display will be slower

The checkboxes "Icons *.ICO, Libraries (*.ICL, *.NIL, *IL) and Programs (*.CPL; *.DLL, *.DRV, *.EXE, *.OCX, *.VBX)" allow you to display the toolbars

2.	In EDITOR tab

The Transparent and Inverted color patterns area allows you to choose patterns:

Spaced dots

Hatching

Tight dots

Plain

You can choose a background color for the editor window

The Offer multiple Paste options checkbox allows user specification of the paste method at paste time (see [image] Related Topics)

The Shade behind icon checkbox allows you to display a shade associated with the icon

The Automatic zoom by default checkbox allows you to have an automatic zoom in the editor

The Display grid by default checkbox allows you to display a grid in the editor

3.	In WELCOME AND TI¨PS AT STRATUP tab

The Warning if ICO and ICL files are not associated with AX-Icons allows you to associated ICO and ICL files with AX-Icons

The Information window when opening a program file checkbox allows you to display information opened document.

The Warn insufficient video colors to edit a particular image format icon checkbox allows you to display information  of a color icon palette.

The Warn if insufficient video colors checkbox causes display of a warning about the configuration being used, if necessary.

The Welcome and tips at startup checkbox lets you specify display of a window with a welcome message and a list of tips.


Drag and drop from one library to another as a document
Drag and drop from one library to another

AX-Icons includes a function that makes it easier to copy and move icons from one library to another, using the "Drag and Drop" function: you select a library, open it as a document, select the icons you want to move, then drag them all holding down the mouse button until you get to the other document.

To move icons from one library to another

Open icon libraries as documents

Select icons

Using drag and drop, drag them to the document to which you want to import the icons

To copy icons from one library to another

Open icon libraries as documents

Select one or more icons, holding down the CTRL or SHIFT key as you click with the left button on the icons one after the other

Keep the left mouse button pressed down

Press the CTRL key and drag to the document where you want to copy the icons. The cursor changes to a pointer with one or more documents in the background and a + sign

AX-Icons automatically copies all the icons to the document and places them in the foreground. The libraries are automatically updated after you close the documents.


Drag and Drop from a file (*.EXE, *.DLL) to a library (*.ICL, *.NIL; *.IL)
Drag and drop from one  file to a library

Open a program file (*.CPL; *.DLL, *.DRV, *.EXE, *.OCX, *.VBX)

Select one or more icons using the SHIFT and/or CTRL key

Holding down the left mouse button, drag then release into the selected library (*.ICL, *.NIL, or *.IL) or on a library in the left pane of the library window.
The cursor changes to a pointer with one or more documents in the background and a + sign
The icons will be inserted at the desired location.


Drag and drop from a file or library to the customizing window of windows
To drag and drop from one file or library to the customizing window of windows

Open a program file (*.CPL; *.DLL, *.DRV, *.EXE, *.OCX, *.VBX),
a library (*.ICL, *.NIL, *.IL) or select a library in the librarian

Choose Options/Customizing Windows

Click on Desktop icons or Standard icons tab

Select an icon from the file or library

Holding down the left mouse button, drag then release on the standard or desktop icons which you wish to replace.

Click on Apply button

The icons will be automatically replace the old.


Customizing Windows

Choose Options/Customizing windows

1.	In Parameters tab

The Icons size group allows to choice the size of icons in Windows

The Space between icons group allows you to choice horizontal or vertical space between icons.

The  Display icons using 256 or 16.8 M colors checkbox allows you to display 256 or 16.8 M colors into icons

The Display an arrow in shortcut checkbox allows you to customize shortcuts.

The Rebuild now button allows you to rebuild the Windows icons database if it is damaged.

2.	In Desktop icons tab

The list of desktop icons displays. You can modify it (See [image] Related Topics)

3.	In Standard icons tab

The list of standard icons displays. You can modify it (See [image] Related Topics)

4.	Click on Apply button to apply the changes to Windows.

5.	Click on Default icons button to return default standard or desktop icons in Windows.


Creating a new folder

Go to the librarian

Choose Librarian/New folder

Enter the name of the folder


Renaming a folder
Renaming the folder

Select the folder

Choose Librarian/Rename

Enter the new name of the folder


Moving a folder

Select the folder, holding down the left mouse button, drag then release on the other folder

Remark

You can't move the folder in its direct parent or in one of its childs


Creating a new library from  the librarian

Go to the librarian

Choose Librarian/New library

Specify the name of the library to be created as well as the sub-directory in which it will be saved

Note:

The library window can be resized. You can change the horizontal dimension of the left side of the tree by positioning the cursor on the vertical line and holding the left mouse button down as you move the mouse.


Renaming a library from the librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Rename

Specify the name of the library to be renamed


Saving the library from the librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Save

See [image] Related Topics


Deleting a folder from the librarian

Select the folder

Choose Librarian/Delete

Click Deleting

Warning

You delete the folder and its contents. The folder will be definitively deleted.


Deleting a library from the librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Delete

Click Deleting

Warning

You delete the library and its contents. The library will be definitively deleted.


Opening an icon attached to the library from the librarian
Opening an icon associated with the library from the librarian

Select an icon in the library

Choose Librarian/Open icon or select an icon then double-click

To modify an icon

The icon is displayed in an edit window. This windows shows the number of the icon and the name of the library where it is located.

Example : Icon N°8 in "mplayer" (16x16 - 16 colors)

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Update in the edit window

The modified icon is updated in the file or library

Reselect the library

Choose Librarian/Save


Opening as a new icon

Select an icon in the library

Choose Librarian/Open as a new icon

The icon is displayed in an edit windows. This window has a new icon number. For example: Icon 3

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Save or File/Save as from the edit window or File/Add to librarian

The modified icon is saved in an ICO file or added at the end of the selected library in librarian.


Displaying icons

Choose Librarian/Display icons

The icons will be displayed by:

Size16x16

Size 32x32

Size 48x48

Monochrome

16 colors

256 colors and more

Information (name of an icon, number of image format)


Saving the library to librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Save library


Importing an document to a librarian library

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Import

Select the file type from the File Type Drop Down box

Icon files(*.ICO)

Program files (*.CPL; *.DLL, *.DRV, *.EXE, *.OCX, *.VBX

Libraries (*.ICL, *.NIL, *.IL)

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

The imported icons will be automatically placed at the end of the selected library.


Exportating icons to ICL format
Exporting icons to ICL format

Select one or more icons

Choose Librarian/Export to ICL

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new ICL library in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICL) automatically in the File Type Drop down box.


Saving an icon as an ICO file from the librarian

Select the icon to the library

Choose Librarian/Save as ICO

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new ICO file in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICO) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.


Printing the library

Select the library to the librarian

Choose Librarian/Print library


Print preview of the library
Visualizing the library before printing

Select the library to the librarian

Choose Librarian/ Print Preview library


Opening a library as a document from the librarian

AX-Icons allows you to open a library in a separate document window. This operation is very useful when moving or copying icons from one library to another to keep them visible on screen. You can also import into and export from a document.

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Open library

Warning

If you open the current library as a document, the current library will be automatically diactivated by AX-Icons. You can perform no operation on this library as long as the associated document is open. But all operations in the document library will be update in the library.


Importing a document to a document library

Select the library

Choose Library/Import

Select the file type from the File Type Drop Down box

Icon files(*.ICO)

Program files (*.CPL; *.DLL, *.DRV, *.EXE, *.OCX, *.VBX

Libraries (*.ICL, *.NIL, *.IL)

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

The imported icons will be automatically placed at the end of the selected library.


Saving an icon as an ICO file from the document library

Select an icon

Choose Library/Save as ICO

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new ICO file in the File Name Text box AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICO) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.


Renaming one or more icons

Select one or more icons

Choose Librarian/Rename

Enter the name of an icon

Click on Renaming button

Remark

If you rename several icons, they are automatically indexed. For example, "computer" will be indexed by "computer 1", "computer 2",... "computer n".


Deleting one or more icons

Select one or more icons

Choose Librarian/Delete


Opening an icon attached to the document library
Opening an icon associated with the document library

Select an icon in the library

Choose Library/Open icon or select an icon then double-click

To modify an icon

The icon is displayed in an edit window. This windows shows the number of the icon and the name of the library where it is located.

Example : Icon N°8 in "mplayer" (16x16 - 16 colors)

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Update in the edit window

The modified icon is updated in the file or library

Reselect the library

Choose Library/Save


Opening as a new icon from the document library

Select an icon in the library

Choose Library/Open as a new icon

The icon is displayed in an edit window. This window has a new icon number. For example: Icon 3

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Save or File/Save as from the edit window or File/Add to librarian

The modified icon is saved in an ICO file or added at the end of the selected library in librarian.


Renaming one or more icons of the document library

Select one or more icons

Choose Library/Rename

Enter the name of an icon

Click on Renaming button

Remark

If you rename more icons, they are automatically indexed. For example, "computer" will be indexed by "computer 1", "computer 2",... "computer n".


Deleting one or more icons of the document library

Select one or more icons

Choose Library/Delete


Compiling a  document library

Select one or more icons to compile. AX-Icons will select all library icons if you have not do a selection.

Choose Library/Compile

Enter the .EXE filename in the area "Enter the path and the .EXE filename will be created"

Enter the library icons title

Enter the icons library comment

Click on Compiling button

The user of this compiled version will be able to print, export icons and even customize its Windows.

Warning

You are going to create a compiled and freely redistributable version of your icon library. “Freely redistributable” means that AXIALIS permits you to redistribute without royalties the portion of executable code produced by this compilation.

It does not mean that you can freely distribute any icon using this compilation. Don’t forget that all icons are intellectual properties of their respective authors.

Consequently, you must hold the Copyright on each icon you have inserted in the compiled library.

AXIALIS assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of this compilation.

For more Informations, click on the More Infos about Copyright button.


Compiling a library from the librarian

Select one or more icons to compile. AX-Icons will select all library icons if you have not do a selection

Choose Librarian/Compile

Enter the .EXE filename in the area "Enter the path and the .EXE filename will be created"

Enter the library icons title

Enter the icons library comment

Click on Compiling button

The user of this compiled version will be able to print, export icons and even customize its Windows.

Warning

You are going to create a compiled and freely redistributable version of your icon library. “Freely redistributable” means that AXIALIS permits you to redistribute without royalties the portion of executable code produced by this compilation.

It does not mean that you can freely distribute any icon using this compilation. Don’t forget that all icons are intellectual properties of their respective authors.

Consequently, you must hold the Copyright on each icon you have inserted in the compiled library.

AXIALIS assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of this compilation.

For more Informations, click on the More Infos about Copyright button.


Launching compilation
Executing the compilation

Execute the .EXE compilation file

The user of this compiled version will be able to:

 In the File menu

Saving as an ICO file

Exporting to ICL

Customizing the window of Windows

Printing

Preview

Setting printer parameters

 In the Display menu

Toolbar

Status bar

Size 16x16

Size 32x32

Size 48x48

Monochrome

16 colors

256 colors and more

Displaying information (name of icon, number of image formats)


To toggle display of the toolbar on or off

Choose Display/Toolbar

Choose Librarian, Standard, Drawing, colors and Scale 1:1

Tips

You can drag and drop toolbars where you want into AX-Icons.


To toggle display of the status bar on or off

Choose Display/Status bar


Opening a program file or a library

Choose File/Open

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type from the File Type Drop Dow box.

Program files (*.CPL; *.DLL, *.DRV, *.EXE, *.OCX, *.VBX)

Library files (*.ICL, *.IL, *.NIL)

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

Remark

The  contents of each program file or library is displayed and even the number of icons/


Closing a program file or library
Closing a program file or a library

Choose File/Close

Remark

AX-Icons will ask you whether you want to save it.


Exporting icons as an ICL library
Exporting icons to an ICL library

Select one or more icons

Choose Library/Export to ICL

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new ICL library in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICL) automatically in the File Type Drop down box.


Managing programs

Managing programs is identical to managing libraries except the program files (*.VBX, *.DLL, *.EXE, *.DRV, *.OCX) contain executable code and you imposed restrictions.

You can:

Visualizing, modifying, exporting, copying in clipboard and add to the librarian

Saving the modifications and export ICL

You can not:

Adding or deleting icons

Adding or deleting image formats to icons

Warning

If you modify icons in a program file, you must before save its contents.


How to use the librarian created with AX-Icons 2.0 or 3.0 for Win 95

First solution (recommended)

Install AX-Icons. Copy (Not move) the sub-directory "Library" and its contents from AX-Icons 2.0 or 3.0 to AX-Icons 4.0 for Win 95

Execute AX-Icons 4.0. Converting then importing are automatic.

Second solution

Install AX-Icons in the same directory that AX-Icons 2.0 or 3.0

Execute AX-Icons 4.0. Converting then importing are automatic.