Copyright: Copyright © 1996 MicroVision Development, Inc.
Citation: Copyright © 1996 MicroVision Development, Inc.


Contents
Welcome To

Version 1.1

Copyright © 1996 MicroVision Development Inc.

http://www.mvd.com
All rights reserved

Glossary

Design Editor

Database

Purchasing

For Help on Help, Press F1


Purchasing DesignExpress

Contact:

MicroVision Development, Inc.


MicroVision Development, Inc. Order Form
DesignExpress for Labels Order Form
MicroVision Development, Inc. (United States)

Use this form for easy ordering.  Use File/Print Topic from the menu to print this form.

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You can order directly from MicroVision Development using your credit card or check drawn on a US bank.  MasterCard, VISA and American Express are all welcomed.

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When using a credit card, please select the most convenient method for placing your order.  Once the order has been received, your copy will go out the following day or sooner.

(800) 998-4555	Toll Free (U.S. Orders Only)

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To order by mail with a check or credit card, please send your order to:

MicroVision Development, Inc.
P.O. Box 3010
Carlsbad, CA 92009
USA

Order Information

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Operating Platform:	Windows 95/NT	Windows 3.1

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For information on other MicroVision Development, Inc. products including WordExpress and WebExpress, visit us on the World Wide Web at http://www.mvd.com


DesignExpress Design Editor

User Basics

Commands

Keyboard

Purchasing

Control Strip

Status Strip

Speed Tools

Button Bar

Variation Bar

Database

Glossary


DesignExpress Database

User Basics

Commands

Keyboard

Purchasing

Control Strip

Status Strip

Speed Tools

Design Editor

Glossary


Design Editor Basics

Starting a New Design Job

To start any new Design Job you must first select the design type. Choose "File / New" from the menu, this displays the "New" dialog box.  Select the "SmartDesigns" folder.  The SmartDesigns listbox is organized into categories shown as blue folders.  Each folder can be opened or closed by double clicking on the folder or its description.  Click on the "OK" button and you'll have a new design to work on.

Designing with SmartDesigns

One of the most wonderful things about DesignExpress is SmartDesigns.  With SmartDesigns, you get the skills of a professional graphic designer built into every design you create.  It's as simple as pressing a few buttons.

SmartDesigns know everything about the design type you have selected.  Things such as physical dimensions and how many are laid out on a page and where they are positioned are completely built in.  But SmartDesigns also build and position text frames, graphic accents, and logos or pictures on the design as well.

Along the bottom of the screen, you will see a toolbar with scrolling list controls.  This is the Design Editor SmartDesign "Variation Bar".  By changing the list controls you can drastically or slightly modify the basic design.

Editing the SmartDesign

All fields created by SmartDesigns contain sample text which gives an example for the fields intended purpose.  In some cases, where the field is applicable to you personally, i.e. the name on a business card, we insert your name as you entered it into the "User Information" portion of the "Preferences" dialog box.

To move between the text fields created by SmartDesigns use the tab key.  This behaves just as it does in dialog boxes, so it should already be familiar.  You can also use the Shift-Tab combination to go "backwards" to the last field.  You can select and edit text just like a Word Processor, or Edit box.

Pictures/Text Effects:	Pictures and Text Effects can be changed by double clicking on them in Pointer mode.  This will bring up a dialog box that will let you modify the attributes of the object.

Printing your Design(s)

Select "File / Print" to bring up the "Print" dialog box.  You can specify the exact number of labels to print, or the exact number of pages.  Select the starting position in the sample field and press "OK".


Database Basics

The Database is a tool for creating and modifying databases.  A database can be used to keep track of customers, products, or any type of information that is similiar.  For more information on terms used here, see the Glossary.

Creating a Database.

Choose "File / New" from the menu, this displays the "New" dialog box.  Select the "Database" folder.  Select the type of database you want to create from the list.  When a database is selected in the list, you will see a list of the default field names for the database.  Click on the "OK" button.  Select a drive/directory where you want the database to reside and type in a filename (the extension is not necessary).  Click on the "OK" button.  You  now have an empty database ready for records to be added.  Note: DesignExpress automatically creates a blank record.

Adding Records to the Database

Choose "Design / New Record" or press "F2" to create a blank record.  Enter in the information in the appropriate fields for the current record.  When you are done, select "Design / Save Record".  Note: DesignExpress will disable and gray out the Save Record if no changes have been made to the record.  If you want to add another record repeat the previous steps.

DesignExpress will automatically save the current record, if necessary, when you traverse through the records, or when you select "Design / New Record".  The only time you will lose changes in a record is if you explicity choose "Design / Cancel Changes".

Modifying a Record in a Database

Go to the record which you would like to change.  You may want to search for the Record using "Edit / Find Record" or by pressing "CTRL+F".  Either click in the field you would like to change or use the TAB key until the cursor is in the field desired.  Type in the changes you wish to make.  When finished, you may want to choose "Design / Save Record".

Deleting Records from the Database

Go to the record which you would like to delete.  You may want to search for the Record using "Edit / Find Record" or by pressing "CTRL+F".  Choose the menu item "Edit / Delete Record".  You will be prompted on whether you want to delete the record.   If you click on the "No" button, you will be returned to the database and the record will not be deleted.  If you click on the "Yes" button the record will be deleted from the database.  If you accidentally delete a record, use the "Edit / Undo" menu item to get it back.

Saving the Database

A Database resides on the disk, so you don't have to expicitly save it.  If you want to change the name of the database, you can use the "File / Save As" menu item.

Printing the Database

If you would like to print the Database, you can use the Databases "File / Print" command.  This command uses information from the "Page Setup" in order to print the database records.

The best way to print out database records is by using a Mail Merge in the Design Editor with your database.


DesignExpress Commands

Design Editor Commands

Database Commands


DesignExpress Keyboard

Design Editor Keyboard

Database Keyboard


Design Editor Commands

File Menu	The File menu contains commands for working with design and database files.  These commands let you perform such tasks as creating new files, opening and saving existing ones, and printing, for example.

Edit Menu	The Edit menu contains basic text and object manipulation commands.

View Menu	The View Menu contains commands for changing display mode and zoom levels, as well as options for turning on or off the display of certain DesignExpress tools.

Design Menu	The Design Menu contains commands for manipulating and traversing design(s).

Format Menu	The Format menu contains commands for changing the appearance of characters, paragraphs, and graphic objects.

Object Menu	The Object menu contains commands for drawing and manipulating objects, editing the placement of non-printing guides, and toggling the snap settings of grids and guides.

Utilities Menu	The Utilities menu contains commands for inserting special items into text frames, setting up a print merge, spell-checking documents, and customizing the Speed Tools.

Window Menu	The Window menu contains commands to cascade or tile the document windows, to arrange the icons which represent minimized document windows, and to close all open documents.


Database Commands

File Menu	The File menu contains commands for working with design and database files.  These commands let you perform such tasks as creating new files, opening and saving existing ones, and printing, for example.

Edit Menu	The Edit menu contains basic text and object manipulation commands.

View Menu	The View Menu contains commands for changing display mode and zoom levels, as well as options for turning on or off the display of certain DesignExpress tools.

Database Menu	The Database Menu contains commands for manipulating and traversing records and fields.

Window Menu	The Window menu contains commands to cascade or tile the document windows, to arrange the icons which represent minimized document windows, and to close all open documents.


Design Editor File Menu

New	Create a  new design or database.

Open	Open an existing design or database.

Close	Close the current design window.

Save	Save the current design.

Save As	Save the current design under a new name.

Print	Print the current design.

Calibrate Printer	Calibrate the printer.

Page Setup Setup the layout of labels on the page.

Printer Setup	Setup printer to use for printing.

Send	Sends the design using Mail.

Exit DesignExpress	Close DesignExpress and all open windows.

File History List	List of most recently used design(s)  and database(s).


Design Editor Edit Menu

Undo/Redo	Undo / Redo last operation.

Cut	Cut object(s) or text to clipboard.

Copy	Copy object(s) or text to clipboard.

Paste	Paste object(s) or text from clipboard.

Paste Special	(32 bit only) Paste OLE object(s) with non-default attributes.

Search	Search for text in design(s).

Replace	Search for and replace text in design(s).

Repeat Last	Repeat last search or replace command.

Bring to Front	Bring object(s) to the front of other objects.

Send to Back	Send object(s) to the back of other objects.

Select All	Select all object(s) or text in a design.

Preferences	Edit DesignExpress Preferences.

Stocks	Select which stock to use on current design job.


Design Editor View Menu

Full Page	Switches into full page view mode, designs are laid out onto pages as they would appear for default printing. See "Design Editor View Modes".

Single Design	Switches into single design mode, only the current design is visible. See "Design Editor View Modes".

Outside	Switches to view the outside of the design (2 sided designs only).

Inside	Switches to view the inside of the design (2 sided designs only)

Current Zoom Level	Displays the current zoom level as a percentage.

Zoom to fit in Window	Zoom in on page (full page) or design (single design) to fit exactly in the window frame.

Zoom In	Increments to the next zoom level.

Zoom Out	Decrements to the next zoom level.

Actual Size	Sets zoom level to 100%.

Custom Zoom	Allows you to enter a zoom percentage.

Show Button Bar	Toggles the display of the button bar (left hand side). See "Design Editor Button Bar".

Show Variation Bar	Toggles the display of the variation bar (along the bottom). See "Design Editor Variation Bar".

Show Rulers	Toggles the display of the rulers.

Show Control Strip	Toggles the display of the Control Strip. See "Control Strip".

Show Status Strip	Toggles the display of the Status Strip. See "Status Strip".

Show Speed Tools	Toggles the display of the Speed Tools. See "Speed Tools".


Design Editor Design Menu

New	Creates a new design in the current block.

Insert	Inserts a new design in the current block.

Delete	Deletes the current design.

Duplicate	Duplicates the current design.

Vary All	Toggles Vary All for the Design Job.

Show Item	Show / Hide design items.

First Design	Goto the first design in the current block.

Previous Design	Goto the previous design in the current block.

Next Design	Goto the next design in the current block.

Last Design	Goto the last design in the current block.

Previous Block	Goto the previous block.

Next Block	Goto the next block.


Design Editor Format Menu

Character	Edit character attributes of selected text.

Bold	Toggle Bold attribute on selected text.

Italic	Toggle Italic attribute on selected text.

Underline	Toggle Underline attribute on selected text.

Word Underline	Toggle Word Underline attribute on selected text.

Paragraph	Edit paragraph attributes on selected text.

Borders	Edit border attributes on selected paragraphs or objects.

Tabs	Edit Tabs on selected paragraphs.

Bullets	Edit Bullets on selected paragraphs.

Lines	Edit Lines on selected paragraphs or objects.

Shades	Edit shades on selected  paragraphs or objects.


Design Editor Object Menu

Tools

Line	Create Lines.

Rectangle	Create Rectangles

Rounded Rectangle	Create Rounded Rectangles.

Ellipse	Create Ellipses.

Text Frame	Create Text Frames.

Picture	Create Pictures.

Text Effect	Create Text Effect.

OLE Object	(32 bit only) Creates an OLE object.

Properties	Edit object properties.

Object	(32 bit only) OLE system defined properties. (dependent on OLE object type)

Object Links	(32 bit only) Edit the OLE object links (on linked objects only).

Ungroup	Ungroup a group object.

Snap to Grid	Toggle snap to grid.

Snap to Guides	Toggle snap to guides.

Set Grid	Set grid and guide options.

Edit Horizontal Guides	Edit Horizontal Guide positions.

Edit Vertical Guides	Edit Vertical guide positions.


Design Editor Utilities Menu

Insert Field	Insert an automatic field

Insert Picture	Insert a picture.

Insert Symbol	Insert a special character symbol(s) into the design.

Insert Merge Field	Insert merge field(s) into the design.

Set Merge File	Set the merge file.

Spell Check	Spell Check the design(s).


Design Editor Window Menu

Cascade	Cascade open document windows.

Tile	Tile open document windows.

Arrange Icons	Arrange all minimized document windows.

Close All	Close all document windows.

Configure Speed Tools	Configure the Speed Tools. See "Speed Tools".


Database File Menu

New	Create a  new design or database.

Open	Open an existing design or database.

Close	Close the current design window.

Save As	Save the current database under a different name.

Print	Print the current design.

Page Setup	Setup page to print records on to.

Printer Setup	Setup printer to use for printing.

Exit DesignExpress	Close DesignExpress and all open windows.

File History List	List of most recently used design(s)  and database(s).


Database Edit Menu

Undo/Redo	Undo / Redo last operation.

Cut	Cut object(s) or text to clipboard.

Copy	Copy object(s) or text to clipboard.

Paste	Paste object(s) or text from clipboard.

Delete Record	Deletes the current record.

Cut Record	Cuts the current record to the clipboard.

Copy Record	Copies the current record to the clipboard.

Find Record	Finds a record in the database.

Find Next	Finds the next record in the database.

Preferences	Set Database preferences and options.


Database View Menu

Show Control Strip	Toggles the display of the Control Strip. See "Control Strip".

Show Status Strip	Toggles the display of the Status Strip. See "Status Strip".

Show Speed Tools	Toggles the display of the Speed Tools. See "Speed Tools".


Database Database Menu

New Record	Create a new record.

Save Record	Save changes to record.

Cancel Editing	Discard changes to record.

Set Sort Field	Set field(s) to sort on.

Rename Fields	Rename field name(s).

First Record	Goto first record.

Previous Record	Goto previous record.

Next Record	Goto next record.

Last Record	Goto last record.


Database Window Menu

Size To Form	Size window to fit form exactly.

Cascade	Cascade open document windows.

Tile	Tile open document windows.

Arrange Icons	Arrange all minimized document windows.

Close All	Close all document windows.

Configure Speed Tools	Configure the Speed Tools. See "Speed Tools".


File / New

Use "New..." to create a new SmartDesign or Database.  Choosing this command displays the "New" dialog box from which you select a SmartDesign or database and specify whether you want the new SmartDesign or database to appear in a new window.

New File Dialog

This dialog let's you select what type of document you want to create.

SmartDesigns

Create a new design.

Product Type	Select the type of stock (i.e. Labels - Laser for labels to be printed on a laser printer) you will be creating designs for.

SmartDesigns	Select the SmartDesign that you would like to use (i.e. 5196 for 3½" diskette labels).

Sample	A graphical representation of the currently selected SmartDesign.

Add To Favorites	(also Remove From Favorites) Add the currently selected SmartDesign to the list under Personal Favorites.

Blank Designs	(For Advanced Users) If checked, DesignExpress will not use SmartDesigns when the document is created, you are free to create your own design.

Templates

Create a new design based on a previously saved template.

Templates	List of templates that currently exist.

Sample	A graphical representation of the SmartDesign that the template is based on.

Databases

To create a new database.  When creating a new database, DesignExpress will bring up the "Create Database" dialog.

Databases	List of database types that are available.

Fields	List of the default field names of the currently selected database type.

Search	Search SmartDesign description, name and compatibility for text.  Brings up the "Search SmartDesigns" dialog.

Custom	Create a custom template based on the current template.  Brings up the Custom Page Setup dialog.

Delete	Deletes a previously created custom template.

New Window	Check this option if you want DesignExpress to create the new SmartDesign or database in a new window.  If this option is not checked, DesignExpress will use the current window for the new document; if the current window contains a SmartDesign or template that has unsaved changes, you are prompted to save them first.

Information	Returns detailed information on the selected item, depending upon which type is selected brings up "SmartDesign Information" dialog, "Template Information" Dialog, or "Database Information" dialog.

Product Description/Compatibility	Lists information about the currently selected item.

To	Press

Create a new document	CTRL+N


File / Open

Use "Open..." to open an existing SmartDesign, template or database.  Choosing this command displays the "Open" dialog box where you can select from a list of SmartDesigns, templates and databases.

File Open Dialog

Filename	Enter the filename of the document to open.

List Files of Type	Select options from this menu to tell DesignExpress the type of document you want to open - Design (DSN), template (DSU) or databases (MVD). The type you choose here determines the available files in the file list.

New Window	Check this option if you want DesignExpress to open the SmartDesign, template or database in a new window.  If this option is not checked, DesignExpress will use the current window; if the current window contains a SmartDesign or template that has unsaved changed, you are prompted to save them first.

Select the drive and directory where you want DesignExpress to look for files from the Drives and Directories list boxes.

To	Press

Open a document	CTRL+O


File / Close

Use "Close" to close the current SmartDesign or database window.  If unsaved changes have been made to the SmartDesign, you will be prompted to save them first.  You can save them, ignore them, or cancel the "Close" command.

To	Press

Close a document	CTRL+W or CTRL+F4


File / Save

Use the "Save" to save any changes you have made to the current SmartDesign.  If this is the first time you have saved the SmartDesign, choosing this command displays the "Save As" dialog box where you can specify a file name and directory.

To	Press

Save a SmartDesign	CTRL+S


File / Save As

Use "Save As..." to save the current SmartDesign or template with a new name and/or directory location.  If you enter a filename and directory of an existing SmartDesign or template, another dialog box is displayed asking whether you want to overwrite the existing file.  Choosing "Yes" overwrites the existing file; choosing "No" returns you to the "Save As" dialog box where you can enter a different name or directory.

File Save As Dialog

Filename	Enter the filename for the SmartDesign or Template. The default filename extension for SmartDesigns is DSN and DSU for templates.  The default extension for the type selected is automatically appended to the filename you enter, unless you enter a different extension.

List Files of Type	Enter the type (DSN for SmartDesign, DSU for Template) to save the file as.

Create Dir	Click this button to bring up the "Create Directory" dialog box which allows you to create a directory. After the directory is created, the current directory will be set to that directory and you will be returned to the "Save As" dialog box.

Select the drive and directory where you wan the file to be saved from the Drives and Directories list boxes.


File / Print

Print the current SmartDesign or Database.  (Windows 95 Note: You can also print files by dragging them and dropping them on to the printer icon)

Print Dialog (Design Editor)

Printer	Select which printer you want output to go to.

Bin	Select which bin you want to print to.

Print	Select either:
Copies	to print each design # times.
Pages	to duplicate each design to fill # pages.
Sets	(on merge only) to print each record with each design # times.
and enter the number.

Settings

All	Select to print all the designs.

Current	Select to print the current design.

Range	Select to print a range of designs.

Records (on merge only)

None	Select to disable merge.

All	Select to print all the records.

Range	Select to enter a range of records to print.

Set Merge File	Click to change or clear the current merge file.

Sides (on 2 sided SmartDesigns only)

Inside	Select to print the inside half.

Outside	Select to print the outside half.

Reverse Inside Pages	Select to print the inside pages in reverse  order.

Print Inside Pages Last	Select to print all the outside pages first and then print all the inside pages.

Prompt for Inside Pages	Select to prompt you before the inside pages are printed, so you have time to place the output back into the printer tray.

Test for Overflow	If checked, all designs will be checked to see if any text frames are overflowed, If text frames do overflow you will be prompted on whether you want to continue with the "Check for Overflow" dialog.

Print to File	This option lets you print to a disk file rather than to a printer.  After selecting "Print to File" and clicking "OK", a dialog box is displayed prompting you to enter an output filename.  Enter the path and filename, then click "OK" to create the output file.

Sample	Shows a sample of the output, on SmartDesigns with multiple designs per page, you can select the starting design by clicking on it.

No. Sheets Required	Shows you how many sheets will be used with the current options.

Options	Click this button to bring up a printer specific dialog box which allows you to configure the currently selected printer.

Print Dialog (Database)

Printer	Select what printer you want output sent to.

Records 	Select either:
All	to print all the records in the database.
Current Record	to print the current record in the database.
Range	to print a range of records in the database.

Print to File	This option lets you print to a disk file rather than to a printer.  After selecting "Print to File" and clicking "OK", a dialog box is displayed prompting you to enter an output filename.  Enter the path and filename, then click "OK" to create the output file.

Options	Click this button to bring up a printer specific dialog box which allows you to configure the currently selected printer.

Page Setup	Brings up the "Page Setup" dialog for setting up what page size the output will be printed on.

To	Press

Print a document	CTRL+P


File / Calibrate Printer

Use "Calibrate Printer..." to calibrate the active printer so that labels align with printed objects correctly.

Calibrate Printer Dialog

Printer	Current printer / printer to calibrate.

Paper Bin	Current paper bin for printer.

Feed Type	Select whether paper feeds from the left, center or right.

Use with all bins	Use the feed type setting with all paper bins.

Print Calibration  Sheet	Print out a calibration sheet on the current printer and bin.

Expand / Shrink	Increase this value if text creeps up or left on the page the further down the printing happens.

Offset	Increase this if output is too far up or left, Decrease if output is too far right or down.

Options	Click this button to bring up a printer specific dialog box which allows you to configure the currently selected printer.


File / Printer Setup

Use "Printer Setup..." to select the active printer and specify printer-specific options.

Printer Setup Dialog

Default Printer	Select this to use the default printer, which is shown below this.

Specific Printer	Select this to use a specific printer.  Select the printer to use from the list below this radio button.

Options	Click this button to bring up a printer specific dialog box which allows you to configure the currently selected printer.


File / Page Setup

Use "Page Setup..." to customize an existing design. See the Custom Page Setup dialog.


File / Send

Use "Send" to send the current design to someone using Mail.  Consult your Windows Reference manual on how to setup and use mail.


File / Exit DesignExpress

Use "Exit" to quit DesignExpress and return to the Windows' Program Manager (or equivalent).  If any unsaved changes have been made to open SmartDesigns when you choose this command, you are prompted to save them first.

To	Press

Exit DesignExpress	ALT+F4


File / History List

List of most recently used design(s)  and database(s).

Click on a file to load the design or database.


Edit / Undo and Edit / Redo

Use "Undo" to reverse the effect of the last action you performed, such as typing, deleting or formatting text, creating or moving graphic objects, inserting a page break, etc.

The name of this command changes to reflect the exact nature of the action you want to undo.  For example, if you just deleted some text by selecting it and pressing the Delete key, the command name changes to "Undo Typing".  If you just formatted some text to Bold, the name changes to "Undo Format".

Upon selecting an "Undo" command, the command changes to "Redo".  The "Redo" command lets you undo the last "Undo".

To	Press

Undo or Redo	ALT+BACKSPACE or CTRL+Z


Edit / Cut

Use "Cut" to delete the selected text or objects from your SmartDesign or database field and place it on the Clipboard where it can be pasted elsewhere.

Text and pictures can be cut and pasted to other Windows programs such as Paintbrush or Write, but objects created with DesignExpress can only be cut and pasted to other DesignExpress SmartDesigns.

The name of this command changes to identify what you are about to cut.  For example, if you selected some text, the command name changes to "Cut Text".  If you selected an object such as a graphic or text frame, the name changes to "Cut Object".

To	Press

Cut text or objects	SHIFT+DEL or CTRL+X


Edit / Copy

Use "Copy" to place a duplicate of the selected text or objects onto the Clipboard where it can be pasted elsewhere.

Text and pictures can be copied and pasted to other Windows programs such as Paintbrush or Write, but objects created with DesignExpress can only be copied and pasted to other DesignExpress SmartDesigns.

The name of this command changes to identify what you are about to copy.  For example, if you selected some text, the command name changes to "Copy Text".  If you selected an object such as a graphic or frame, the name changes to "Copy Object".

To	Press

Copy text or objects	CTRL+INS or CTRL+C


Edit / Paste

Use "Paste" to place the contents of the clipboard (the last text or object you cut or copied) back into a SmartDesign or database field.

The name of this command changes to identify what you are about to paste.  For example, if you just cut or copied some text, the command name changes to "Paste Text".  If you cut or copied an object such as a graphic or frame, the name changes to "Paste Object".  Certain objects can be pasted in text mode as well as object mode - pictures (see "Design Editor Modes").  By pasting a picture in text mode, you can anchor it to the text.

To	Press

Paste text or objects	SHIFT+INS or CTRL+V


Edit / Paste Special

(32 bit only) Use Paste Special to paste in OLE objects with non-default attributes.


Edit / Search

Use "Search..." to search SmartDesigns for specific text or formatting.

Search Dialog

Search For	DesignExpress can search for any text you can enter from the keyboard, but cannot locate tabs or carriage returns.  Spaces are OK, enabling you to search for groups of words.

Ignore Case	By default, the Search command is not case-sensitive.  With Ignore Case off, or un-checked, DesignExpress locates text exactly as you type it, looking for exact matches of upper and lower case letters.

Whole Word	You can search for whole words, or just for text embedded within other words.

Find Next	Click the "Find Next" to begin the search.  If DesignExpress can't find the search text, it displays an error message.

Done	Click this button to close the "Search" dialog box.

Character	Displays the "Character" dialog box.  You can tell DesignExpress to search only for text that matches the formatting attributes you specify.  For example, if you check the "Italic" option, DesignExpress only searches for italicized text.

Paragraph	Displays the "Paragraph" dialog box.  This lets you search only in paragraphs that are formatted with the attributes you specify.

Clear	Click this button to remove any character and paragraph formatting attributes you may have specified.  DesignExpress will then search in all text, regardless how it's formatted.

Replace	Clicking this button changes the dialog box to the "Replace" dialog box, where you can choose to replace the search text with replacement text you specify.

To	Press

Search	CTRL+F


Edit / Replace

Use "Replace.." to search for and replace one text string with another.

Replace Dialog

Search For	DesignExpress can search for any text you can enter from the keyboard, but cannot locate tabs or carriage returns.  Spaces are OK, enabling you to search for groups of words.

Replace With	Specify the text you wish to replace the matched text.

Ignore Case	By default, the Replace command is not case-sensitive.  With Ignore Case off, or un-checked, DesignExpress locates text exactly as you type it, looking for exact matches of upper and lower case letters.

Whole Word	You can search for whole words, or just for text embedded within other words.

Start	Click the "Start" to begin the search.  If DesignExpress can't find the search text, it displays an error message.  After the first word is found, this button changes to "Skip".  Pressing this button subsequently, will cause the currently matched word to be skipped and searching will continue starting at the next word.

Replace	Click the "Replace" to replace the currently selected word with the text in the "Replace With" field.  Searching will then continue starting at the next word.

Replace All	Click the "Replace All" if you want to replace all occurrences of the specified word.

Done	Click this button to close the "Replace" dialog box.

Character	If the cursor is in the "Search For" field, then clicking this button allows you to specify the character formatting attributes which must be matched as described in the "Search" dialog box.  If the cursor is in the "Replace With" field, then clicking this button allows you to specify the character attributes which are to replace the matched text.  In this way, you can replace all occurrences of a bold word with the same word italicized, for example.

Paragraph	If the cursor is in the "Search For" field, then clicking this button allows you to specify the paragraph attributes which must be matched as described in the "Search" dialog box.  If the cursor is in the "Replace With" field, then clicking this button allows you to specify the paragraph attributes which are to replace the matched text.

To	Press

Search and replace	CTRL+H


Edit / Repeat Last

Use the "Repeat Last" command to repeat the last "Search" or "Replace" command you issued.  DesignExpress searches for the next occurrence of the text you entered in the "Search" dialog box or displays the "Replace" dialog box after it has located the next occurrence of the search text.

To	Press

Repeat Last Search	F3


Edit / Bring to Front

Use the "Bring To Front" command to change the stacking order of overlapping objects such as graphics and text frames.

To move an object to a position above any other objects, select it with the pointer tool and choose "Bring To Front".


Edit / Send to Back

Use the "Send To Back" command to change the stacking order of overlapping objects such as graphics and text frames.

To move an object to a position behind any other objects, select it with the pointer tool and choose "Send To Back".


Edit / Select All

Use "Select All" to highlight, or select, all text in the current text frame, if you are in text mode, or all objects in the current design if you are in object mode (see "Design Editor Modes").

To	Press

Select all text or objects	CTRL+A


Edit / Preferences

This property sheet has four tabs, General, Designer, Database, and User Info.

Preferences Dialog

General Preferences

These are general preferences that are used throughout DesignExpress.

Colors	This section lets you select what colors you want DesignExpress to use for drawing it's window. "Desktop" is the Design Editor screen background. "Board (Dark)" is used for outlines and a shadow effect on the DesignExpress window. "Board (Med)" is used for the board that you see in Single Design mode. "Board (Light)" is used for highlight effect in the Design Editor window.

Display Optimization	Choose the display optimization you desire from this list.  "Fastest" will result in the fastest performance with the greatest screen flicker.  "Best" will result in the least screen flicker but may result in slow performance, especially on complex pages or pages with a large number of pictures.

Show Speed Tools	Click this option if you want the speed tools to be displayed.    This can also be controlled by using the "Show Speed Tools" function on the View menu. See "Speed Tools".

Show Status Strip	Click this option if you want the status strip to be displayed.  This can also be controlled by using the "Show Status Strip" function on the View menu. See "Status Strip".

Show Control Strip	Click this option if you want the control strip to be displayed.  This can also be controlled by using the "Show Control Strip" function on the View menu. See "Control Strip".

Default New Windows	Click this option if you want the "New Window" check box to be checked for "File / New" and "File / Open".

Startup Window	This option lets you configure what file, if any, gets loaded when DesignExpress is started up. "None" tells DesignExpress that you don't want to automatically load a file on startup. "Last" tells DesignExpress to load the last used file on startup. "Prompt" tells DesignExpress that if a file isn't loaded, you want to automatically go into the "New File" dialog.

Designer Preferences

These preferences are only used in the Designer Editor.

Display Field Codes	Check the "Display Field Codes" option if you want DesignExpress to display field codes rather than the actual data, text or values of inserted fields.  For example, if you inserted the Print Date field in your document, and this option is not checked, DesignExpress would display the date (e.g., 28-May-94"); if this option is checked, it would display the name of the inserted field (e.g., "{Print Data}").

Exclusive Layout Bar	(N/A in blank design mode) Tells DesignExpress to only show one of the variation types on the Variation Bar (Stock, Layout, Accent, Font or Size). When you turn on a Variation type, DesignExpress will automatically turn off the old variation type. See "Design Editor Variation Bar".

Use placeholders for Pictures	Uncheck this option if you want DesignExpress to display pictures you've inserted in your document; Check this option to turn off the display of pictures - DesignExpress instead displays a gray rectangle at the picture's location.  All text-wrap, size and position attributes for any pictures remain intact.  The purpose of this option is to speed up screen display.  Selecting this option does not turn off the printing of picture.

Generate Backups	Click this option if you want DesignExpress to automatically generate a backup file each time you save a document.  If set, when you save a document, the current file will be renamed to a file with the extension '.BAK'.

Show Merge Record	Check the "Show Merge Record" option if you want DesignExpress to display the merged data from a particular record from a merged database or list.  This option is gray if no database or list has been merged.

Decimal Separator	Enter the character which is used as the decimal point.  This will be the character which is used for alignment with decimal tabs.

Page Color	Select what color you would like the page to appear on the screen.  If this is set to anything besides "Default Color" colored stocks will appear the same as white stocks. (this will not effect how designs are printed)

Show Background Objects	Check this option to show any objects that appear on the stock.  This will give you a better representation of what the final output will look like. (this will not effect how designs are printed)

Show Background Pictures	Check this to show any pictures that may be available for a stock.  This will give an impressive representation of complicated stocks, but may be too slow for some computers with little memory. (this will not effect how designs are printed)

Show wrap margins	Check this option to tell DesignExpress to display the wrap margins of objects.  This option is off by default, because wrapping is typically not on in any text frames.

Sticky Tools	Check this option to tell DesignExpress to keep using a tool until another tool is selected.  Drawing tools such as the line tool will not switch back to the pointer tool after a line is drawn.

View Mode	This option tells DesignExpress what your favorite view mode is, so that whenever you load a SmartDesign it will be in this mode. "Full Page" is full page view mode and "Single Design" is single design mode. See "Design Editor View Modes".

Designs	This option tells DesignExpress how you typically work with SmartDesigns. "Blank" will tell DesignExpress to always check the "Blank Designs" option in the "New File" dialog. "Full" will tell DesignExpress to always uncheck the "Blank Designs" option in the "New File" dialog. "Last" will tell DesignExpress to remember whether the option was checked or unchecked the last time you were in the dialog.

Zoom to Fit	This option, if checked, tells DesignExpress to always default to "Zoom to Fit" mode.

Frame Bounds	Check this option to display the frame bounds for frames in the currently active window.

Rulers	Check this option to display the horizontal and vertical rulers in the currently active window.

Guides	Check this option to display the horizontal and vertical guides in the currently active window.

Set Default	Check this option to save the "View Options" as the default options for new SmartDesigns.

Database Preferences

These preferences are only used in the Database.

3D Forms	Check this option to use 3D forms instead of the traditional style.

Confirm on Delete	Check this option to be prompted before deleting a record.

Confirm Database close	Check this option to be prompted before a database is closed.

User Info Preferences

These preferences are used to tell DesignExpress who you are.

Use "User Info" to enter personal information such as name, address, phone and fax numbers, etc. DesignExpress uses this information for merge fields (see "Utilities / Insert Field") and SmartDesigns (where applicable).


Edit / Stocks

Select which stock to use on the current SmartDesign.

Stocks Dialog

Stocks	Select which stock you want to use for your current SmartDesign.

Apply	Applies the currently selected stock to the design(s), but does not close the dialog, useful for browsing through the available stocks.


View / Full Page

Switches into full page view mode, designs are laid out onto pages as they would appear for default printing. See "Design Editor View Modes".


View / Single Design

Switches into single design mode, only the current design is visible. See "Design Editor View Modes".


View / Outside

Switches to view the outside of the design (2 sided designs only).

To	Press

Toggle which side to view	CTRL+T


View / Inside

Switches to view the inside of the design (2 sided designs only)

To	Press

Toggle which side to view	CTRL+T


View / Zoom
View / Current Zoom

Displays the current zoom level as a percentage. See "Design Editor Zoom Modes".


View / Zoom to fit in Window

Zoom in on page (full page) or design (single design) to fit exactly in the window frame. See "Design Editor Zoom Modes".


View / Zoom In

Increments to the next zoom level. See "Design Editor Zoom Modes".

To	Press

Zoom In	CTRL+PLUS (On numeric keypad)


View / Zoom Out

Decrements to the next zoom level. See "Design Editor Zoom Modes".

To	Press

Zoom Out	CTRL+MINUS (On numeric keypad)


View / Actual Size

Sets zoom level to 100%


View / Custom Zoom

Use "Custom" to select a view size from a list of available sizes or enter a view size of your own. See "Design Editor Zoom Modes".

Zoom Dialog Box

Zoom Factor	Select a view size from the list, or type a view size and click "OK."  Custom view sizes you enter must be in the range 30 - 400%.


View / Show Button Bar

Toggles the display of the button bar on the left hand side of the Design Editor window.  See "Design Editor Button Bar".


View / Show Variation Bar

Toggles the display of the variation bar along the bottom of the Design Editor window. See "Design Editor Variation Bar".


View / Show Rulers

Toggles the display of the rulers.


View / Show Control Strip

Use "Show Control Strip" to toggle the display of the DesignExpress control strip.  The control strip contains buttons and menus for commonly used functions for the current window.  See "Control Strip".


View / Show Status Strip

Use "Show Status Strip" to toggle the display of the DesignExpress status strip.  The status strip contains fields which tell you information about the current window.  The left most field is used to display useful messages at various times.  For example, when the mouse passes over a control on the control strip, a message is displayed describing what that control does.  See "Status Strip".


View / Show Speed Tools

Use "Show Speed Tools" to toggle the display of DesignExpress "Speed Tool" palette.  This Palette consists of a set of buttons which provide a short cut for many DesignExpress commands.  The palette is user configurable via the "Window / Configure Speed Tools..." command or by double clicking on any portion of the palette which does not contain a button. See "Speed Tools".


Design / New

This command creates a new design based upon the current design and appends it to the SmartDesign.


Design / Insert

This command creates a new design based upon the current design and inserts it into the SmartDesign before the current design.


Design / Delete

Deletes designs from the current SmartDesign.

Delete Design(s) Dialog

Delete # design(s)	Enter the number of designs to delete from the current SmartDesign. (default is 1)

Starting with design	Enter the first design to delete (default is to the current design).


Design / Duplicate

Duplicates the current design any number of times and inserts or appends them into the current SmartDesign.

Duplicate Design Dialog

No. of Copies	Enter the number of times you would like the current design duplicated. (Default is 1)

Insert at current position	If this option is checked, DesignExpress inserts the new designs into the SmartDesign before the current design.

Note: If "No. of Copies" is set to 1, then depending upon the status of "Insert at current position", this command will do the exact same thing as "Design / New" or "Design / Insert".


Design / Vary All

Toggles Vary All for the current SmartDesign.  For a discussion on Vary All, see "Design Editor Basics".


Design / Show Item

Show / Hide design item(s).

Show Item Dialog

Design Items	This is a list of all fields in the current SmartDesign, if the field has a check beside it, it is visible, otherwise it is hidden.  Note: just because there is a check beside a field, it doesn't mean it will show up in the current design.  Some fields are only available on certain layouts and/or accents.


Design / First Design

Go to the first design in the current block.

To	Press

Move to the first design	CTRL+PGUP


Design / Previous Design

Go to the previous design in the current block.

To	Press

Move to the previoust design	PGUP


Design / Next Design

Go to the next design in the current block.

To	Press

Move to the next design	PGDN


Design / Last Design

Go to the last design in the current block.

To	Press

Move to the last design	CTRL+PGDN


Design / Previous Block

Go to the previous block.


Design / Next Block

Go to the next block.


Format / Character

Use the "Character..." command to change the character formatting attributes of selected text, or to set the attributes for new text you type.  Character formatting attributes consist of typeface selection (font and font variations such as bold, italic, etc.), font size in points, underlining options, and super/subscripting.

Character Dialog

Sample	This area of the Character dialog box displays a sample of the currently selected formatting options, letting you see the effect of your formatting choices before applying them.

Default	Click "Default" to return all formatting options to the default state.

Font

Face Name	Choose from a list of fonts installed in your system.

Point Size	You can either select a point size from this menu, or type in any size between 1 and 999.  Sizes must be whole numbers.  The unit of measurement for fonts is points.  There are 72 points in an inch.

Color	Choose from a list of colors you can apply to text. See "Defining New Colors".

Bold	Check this option if you want the font bolded.

Italic	Check this option if you want the font italicized.

Effects

Underline	There are two different types of underlining attributes: continuous underline and word underline.  Continuous underline underlines text, spaces, and tabs.  Word underline does not underline spaces or tabs.  For either underlining option, you can specify whether you want the underline to be a single or double line.

Style	Check an option or any combination of options for the available type styles.  Choose the "All  Caps" attribute to display text in all uppercase letters.  Choose the "Strike Out" attribute to strike out the characters.  Choose the "Small Caps" attribute to show text in all uppercase, but making the lowercase letters a specified percentage of the uppercase letters.

Position

Super/Subscript	Choose "Superscript" to move text above the baseline (an imaginary line where characters rest); choose "Subscript" to move text below the baseline.  If neither option is selected, text is positioned on the baseline.  The "Position" value determines how much, relative to the normal text height, text should be moved up or down - 20% is the default.  The "Size" value lets you specify whether super- or subscripted text should be reduced in size.  The default value of 80% means that text will be reduced by 20%, e.g., if the point size is 10 points, super- or subscript text would be set to 8 points.

Spacing	Enter in "Amount" how much wider you want the characters to be spaced than the default.  Enter in "Pitch" how much wider you want the characters to appear than default.

Apply	Click "Apply" to close the dialog box and apply any formatting options you may have selected.

Cancel	Click "Cancel to close the dialog box without applying any changes.

To	Press

Set face name	CTRL+SHIFT+F

Set point size	CTRL+SHIFT+P

Toggle bold attribute	CTRL+B

Toggle italic attribute	CTRL+I

Toggle underline attribute	CTRL+U

Toggle word underline attribute	CTRL+SHIFT+W


Format / Bold

This menu command alters the respective attributes of the currently selected text.  For example, if the selected text is currently not bold and you choose "Bold", the text will be changed to bold.  If the text is currently bold, then it will be changed to normal.  That is, the "Bold" command toggles the bold state of the selected text.

If no text is selected, then choosing the "Bold" command will determine what the bold attribute for new text you type.  This command once again toggles the bold state.  A check mark will appear next to the "Bold" menu command if new text will be bold.  If there is no check next to the command, then new text will be normal.

To	Press

Toggle bold attribute	CTRL+B


Format / Italic

This menu command alters the respective attributes of the currently selected text.  For example, if the selected text is currently not italic and you choose "Italic", the text will be changed to italic.  If the text is currently italic, then it will be changed to normal.  That is, the "Italic" command toggles the italic state of the selected text.

If no text is selected, then choosing the "Italic" command will determine what the italic attribute for new text you type.  This command once again toggles the italic state.  A check mark will appear next to the "Italic" menu command if new text will be italic.  If there is no check next to the command, then new text will be normal.

To	Press

Toggle italic attribute	CTRL+I


Format / Underline

This menu command alters the respective attributes of the currently selected text.  For example, if the selected text is currently not underlined and you choose "Underline", the text will be changed to underlined.  If the text is currently underlined, then it will be changed to normal.  That is, the "Underline" command toggles the italic state of the selected text.

If no text is selected, then choosing the "Underline" command will determine what the underline attribute for new text you type.  This command once again toggles the underlined state.  A check mark will appear next to the "Underline" menu command if new text will be underlined.  If there is no check next to the command, then new text will be normal.

To	Press

Toggle underline attribute	CTRL+U

Toggle word underline attribute	CTRL+SHIFT+W


Format / Word Underline

This menu command alters the respective attributes of the currently selected text.  For example, if the selected text is currently not underlined and you choose "Underline", the text will be changed to underlined.  If the text is currently underlined, then it will be changed to normal.  That is, the "Underline" command toggles the italic state of the selected text.

If no text is selected, then choosing the "Underline" command will determine what the underline attribute for new text you type.  This command once again toggles the underlined state.  A check mark will appear next to the "Underline" menu command if new text will be underlined.  If there is no check next to the command, then new text will be normal.

To	Press

Toggle underline attribute	CTRL+U

Toggle word underline attribute	CTRL+SHIFT+W


Format / Paragraph

Use the "Paragraph..." command to change the paragraph formatting attributes of selected text, or to set the attributes for the paragraph containing the cursor.  Paragraph formatting attributes are applied to entire paragraphs, rather than single characters or words.  Alignment, indents, line spacing, tab placement, etc., are examples of paragraph formatting attributes.

Paragraph Dialog

Alignment	Choose options from the list to apply left or right alignment to a paragraph, or to center or justify it.

Indent	Enter values in these boxes to control the amount of space between a paragraph and the left or right margin.  By default, paragraph indents are lined up on the margins, i.e., set to 0.00 centimeters.

Spacing	Line spacing is the vertical distance between lines of text in a paragraph, and is controlled by two factors: the size of the font, and the "Leading" value specified for a paragraph.  A leading value of 100% means no additional spacing beyond that built into the font itself (individual fonts may vary considerably).  Entering a larger value increases the space between lines, a smaller value decreases the space.

You can also add spacing between paragraphs.  To add extra space between paragraphs, enter values for the amount of space you want above, below, or both above and below the current paragraph or selected paragraphs in the "Before" and "After" boxes.  These values do not affect the amount of space between lines within a paragraph.  The values you enter are, by default, in points, but you may enter the number in inches or centimeters by following it with the letters "in" or "cm" (e.g. 1.00in or 2.54cm).  The default is 0 points.

Apply	Click "Apply" to close the dialog box and apply any formatting options you may have selected.

Cancel	Click "Cancel" to close the dialog box without applying any changes to character formatting.

Character...	Click "Character..." to open the "Character" dialog box where you can choose character formatting attributes for this paragraph.

Tabs...	Click "Tabs..." to open the "Tabs" dialog box where you can create and edit the placement of tabs.

Border...	Click "Border..." to open the "Paragraph Border" dialog box where you can control the placement and style of paragraph border lines.

Bullet...	Click "Bullet..." to open the "Bullet" dialog box where you can create different types of bulleted paragraphs.

Shades...	Click "Shades..." to open the "Shades" dialog box where you can select different shades, patterns, and colors to apply to paragraphs.

To	Press

Set paragraph attributes	CTRL+M

Left justify paragraph	CTRL+L

Right justify paragraph	CTRL+R

Center paragraph	CTRL+E

Flush justify paragraph	CTRL+J


Format / Borders

Use "Borders..." to create border lines around paragraphs or objects.  DesignExpress lets you create several styles of borders, as well as controlling their placement relative to the text.  The "Frame Border" dialog box is displayed.


Format / Tabs

Use "Tabs..." to set tabs and alter their positions and alignment.  Tabs are used to move the cursor to a specific location without using the spacebar.  Tabs are useful for aligning text to a specific location in the design.  Initially, left-aligned tabs are positioned every quarter inch from the left margin to the right margin.  You can replace these pre-set tabs by adding your own.

DesignExpress lets you create four different types of tabs: left, right, centered, and decimal aligned.  There are two ways you can create and edit tab stops: on the ruler using the mouse (see Changing tabs with the mouse.), or from the "Tabs" dialog box described below.

Tabs Dialog

To add a new tab using the "Tabs" dialog box:

1)	Choose "Tabs..." from the Format menu, or click the "Tabs..." button in the "Paragraph" dialog box.  The "Tabs" dialog box appears.

2)	In the "Set Tabs At" box, enter the position in centimeters - relative to the left margin - where you want to place a tab.  You can specify a tab's position to 1/100th of a centimeter.  By default the tab position is specified in centimeters but you can also specify the position in inches or points by following the number with the letters "in" or "pt" (e.g. 1.00in or 72.0pt).

3)	Choose an alignment type from the "Alignment" pull-down list box.  The default is Left, but you can also choose Right, Center, or Decimal.

4)	Click the "Set" button.  The tab is added to the list.

You can add as many tabs as you need following the above steps.

5)	Click "OK" to close the dialog box and add the new tab or tabs to the ruler.  Click "Cancel" to close the dialog box without adding any tabs to the ruler.

To remove tabs from the "Tabs" dialog box, highlight the tab to be removed from the "Set Tabs At" list, and click the "Clear" button.  The tab is placed in the "Clear Tabs At" list.  If you change your mind, you can select a tab from this list and click the "Set" button to place it back in the "Set Tabs At" list.  You can remove all tabs by clicking the "Clear All" button.  Click "OK" to close the dialog box and update the ruler with the changes you made.  Click "Cancel" to close the dialog box without changing the ruler.


Format / Bullets

Use "Bullets..." to create bullet paragraphs.  Bullet paragraphs can begin with round, diamond, or character bullets.  The bullet appears on the left side of the paragraph.  DesignExpress lets you control the size and color of the bullet, and also its position relative to the text.

Bullet Dialog

Type	Select the type of bullet desired.  The available types are round, diamond, or character.

Round	To create a round bullet, click on one of the standard size round bullets or enter a custom size in the "Size" field to the right.  The "Round" type button will be automatically selected for you.

Diamond	To create a diamond bullet, click on one of the standard size diamond bullets or enter a custom size in the "Diamond" field to the right.  The "Diamond" type button will be automatically selected for you.

Character	To create a character bullet, enter the ANSI character number in the "Character" field or select the character using the control to the right.  Select the desired face name from the "Face Name" menu below, and enter the desired point size in the "Point Size" field.

Color	Select the desired bullet color from this menu of standard colors. See "Defining New Colors".

Horz. Pos	Specify the distance to the left of the paragraph at which you wish the bullet to appear.

Vert. Pos	Specify the vertical position relative to the default position at which you wish the bullet to appear.  A zero value results in the default position which is centered.  A positive value will move the bullet up and a negative value will move the bullet down.


Format / Lines

Use "Lines..." to choose a line thickness and type for graphic objects you create with the drawing tools, as well as frame borders.  This command is only active when your are in object (pointer) mode.  However, this is the same dialog box that appears when you click the "Lines..." button from the "Paragraph Border" dialog box.

Lines Dialog

Type	Choose the line type desired.  You may choose to have no line, or a single or double line.

Thickness	Choose from one of the predefined line thicknesses, or enter any thickness in the "Thickness" or "Separation" edit fields at the bottom.  If a single line has been selected, only the first thickness is used.  If a double line is selected, you may set the thickness of each line as well as the distance between lines.  By default, the thickness is specified in points, but you may enter the value in inches or centimeters by following the number with the letters "in" or "cm" (e.g. 1.00in or 2.54cm).


Outline Dialog

Type	Choose the line type desired.  You may choose to have no line, or a single or double line.

Thickness	Choose from one of the predefined line thicknesses, or enter any thickness in the "Thickness / Separation / Thickness" edit fields below.  If a single line has been selected, only the first thickness is used.  If a double line is selected, you may set the thickness of each line as well as the distance between lines.  By default, the thickness is specified in points, but you may enter the value in inches or centimeters by following the number with the letters "in" or "cm" (e.g. 1.00in or 2.54cm).


Format / Shades

Use "Shades..." to apply a shade or fill pattern to an object, frame, or paragraph background.

Shades Dialog

Shades	Click on one of the pre-defined shades or enter any custom shade value from 0 (white) to 100% (solid color).

Patterns	Click on one of the pre-defined fill patterns.

Foreground Color	If you have selected a shade, then this field specifies the color for the shade.  If you have selected a pattern, then this field specifies the color to be used for the "black" portion of the pattern. See "Defining New Colors".

Background Color	If you have selected a pattern or blend, then this field specifies the color to be used for the "white" portion of the pattern.  If you have selected a shade, then this field is not used. See "Defining New Colors".

Blend	Allows you to blend colors across the shade.  If this is set to anything other than "Solid", it will override the "Patterns".  Blends go from "Foreground Color" to "Background Color".  See the "Blend" dialog box for more information.

Blend...	Brings up the "Blend" dialog box.


Blend Dialog

This dialog box allows you to specify information for blended shades.  Blends go from Foreground color to Background color.

Foreground	Choose the color and the level to go from. See "Defining New Colors".

Background	Choose the color and the level to go to. See "Defining New Colors".

Blend	Choose the type of blend you want.
Solid no blend.
Blend Across blend left to right.
Blend Down blend top to bottom.
Radiant blend outside in.
Double Blend Across blend outside in horizontally.
Double Blend Down blend outside in vertically.

Sample	Sample view of the current blend.


Object / Tools

Draws lines.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create horizontal, vertical, or 45° angled lines.

Draws rectangles.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create squares.

Draws round-corner rectangles.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create round-corner squares.

Draws ellipses.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create circles.

Draws text frames.  Text frames are graphic objects that contain text.

Draws frames into which you can import Windows MetaFile, bit map, TIFF, or PCX images.  After you draw the frame, the "New Picture" box will be displayed which will allow you to specify the picture you wish to import.

Draws Text Effects frames.  After you draw the frame, you can edit it using the "Object / Edit" command.

(32 bit only) Creates OLE Objects.


Object / Tools / Line

Draws lines.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create horizontal, vertical, or 45° angled lines.


Object / Tools / Rectangle

Draws rectangles.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create squares.


Object / Tools / Rounded Rectangle

Draws round-corner rectangles.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create round-corner squares.


Object / Tools / Ellipse

Draws ellipses.  Hold the Shift key while drawing to create circles.


Object / Tools / Text Frame

Draws text frames.  Text frames are graphic objects that contain text.


Object / Tools / Picture

Draws frames into which you can import Windows MetaFile, bit map, TIFF, or PCX images.  After you draw the frame, the "New Picture" box will be displayed which will allow you to specify the picture you wish to import.


Object / Tools / OLE Object

Inserts a new OLE object into the design.  After you draw the frame you will be prompted by the system for the type of object to insert.


Object / Tools / Text Effect

Draws Text Effects frames.  After you draw the frame, you can edit it using the "Object / Edit" command.


Object / Edit
Object / Properties

Use "Properties..." to display a dialog box where you can edit the size, position, wrap margins, appearance, and other attributes of an object.  Choosing the "Properties..." command is the same as double-clicking an object.  This command is gray if no object is selected (see Selecting Objects).

The dialog box that appears when you choose this command changes depending on what type of object is selected.  For more information about a specific object choose the object type from the following:

Lines

Rectangles

Round Corner Rectangles

Ellipses

Text Frames

Picture Frames

Text Effects

Groups

OLE Objects (32 bit only)


Object / Object

(32 bit only) This option is dependent on the type of OLE object selected.  These options are specific to the OLE object.


Object / Object Links

(32 bit only) This option is only enabled for linked OLE objects.  This allows you to change the properties of the OLE links.


Object / Ungroup

Ungroups a group object, all child objects of group are selected.


Object / Snap to Grid

Use "Snap to Grid" to precisely position objects, frames, and tables to the grid increments you specified with the "Set Grid..." command.  A check mark next to this command indicates that it is active.


Object / Snap to Guides

Use "Snap to Guides" to precisely position objects and frames to any guide lines you may have created in your design.  A check mark next to this command indicates that it is active.

You can create a guide with the mouse by clicking on the ruler bar (either horizontal or vertical) while in object mode and then dragging the mouse into the design.  A guide can be moved by clicking on the guide while in object mode and dragging with the mouse.  A guide can be deleted by clicking on the guide while in object mode and dragging it up to the ruler.

You can also create, move and delete guides via the "Edit Horz. Guides..." and "Edit Vert. Guides..." commands.


Object / Set Grid

Use "Set Grid..." to determine the horizontal and vertical grid increments for positioning - or "snapping" - objects and frames.

Set Grid Dialog

Horizontal	Enter the distance between the horizontal grid lines.  If "Snap To Grid" is on, when objects are moved or sized, they will be force to align with a multiple of this value.

Vertical	Enter the distance between the vertical grid lines.    If "Snap To Grid" is on, when objects are moved or sized, they will be force to align with a multiple of this value.

By default, the horizontal and vertical grid lines are specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Tolerance	Set the tolerance used for the "Snap To Guides" option.  This is the distance from a guide (in pixels) at which an which the object's position will be set to the guide position (if "Snap To Guides" is on).

Snap Center to Guide	Check this option if you would like guides  to snap to the center in addition to the bounds of an object.


Object / Edit Horizontal Guides

Use "Edit Horz. Guides..." to add, delete, and move horizontal guide lines.

Brings up the "Guides" dialog box.

Editing horizontal guides with the mouse

To add a horizontal guide line with the mouse, change to object mode, click anywhere within the horizontal ruler and drag into the document. When you release the mouse button, a guide line appears at that position.

You can move a guide line by clicking and dragging it.

To delete a horizontal guide line with the mouse, click it and drag it back to the horizontal ruler.


Object / Edit Vertical Guides

Use "Edit Vert. Guides..." to add, delete, and move vertical guide lines.

Brings up the "Guides" dialog box.

Editing vertical guides with the mouse

To add a vertical guide line with the mouse, change to object mode, click anywhere within the vertical ruler and drag into the document. When you release the mouse button, a guide line appears at that position.

You can move a guide line by clicking and dragging it.

To delete a vertical guide line with the mouse, click it and drag it back to the vertical ruler.


Guides Dialog

To create a new guide, enter the position of where you want the new guide in the "Position" edit field and click "Add".  The new guide will be added to the list of guides in the list box below.  By default, the position is specified in inches, but you may specify it in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "in" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

To delete an existing guide, click on the guide to be deleted (or enter its position in the edit field) and click "Delete".

To move an existing guide, click on the guide to be moved, enter a new horizontal position and then click "Move".


Utilities / Insert Field
Utilities / Insert Field (Edit Field)

Use "Field..." to bring up the "Insert Field" dialog box which allows you to insert a special field into your document.

Insert Field Dialog

Field Type	Choose the type of field you desire as follows:

Auto Number	A field which generates a number is inserted.  You may choose either "Legal" (e.g. 1., 1.1, 1.1.1, etc.), or "Outline" (e.g. I, A, i, a, etc.) numbering.  The level is controlled by the "Outline Level" setting in the paragraph attribute (see "Paragraph" command under the Edit menu).

Date	The date on which the document was created is inserted.  You may choose from any of a number of date formats, or you may click the "Settings..." button which will display the "Date/Time Format" dialog box which allows you to enter your own custom format.

Time	The time at which the document was created is inserted.  You may choose from any of a number of time formats, or you may click the "Settings..." button which will display the "Date/Time Format" dialog box which allows you to enter your own custom format.

File Name	The file name of the document is inserted.  You may choose either the full path or only the base file name.

User Info	You may insert any of the fields from the "User Info" dialog box (see User Info section of the "Preferences" dialog box.

Merge Field	A merge field is inserted.  If you have a database selected, the "Data" list box will contain a list of the available fields from that database.  Otherwise, the list will contain "Field One", "Field Two", etc., which represents the fields of the database in the order they are defined.  You may click on the "Settings" button to display the "Set Merge File" dialog box, which allows you to select the database to use.

Print Date	The date on which the document was last printed is inserted.  This field is always updated each time you print your document.  You may choose from any of a number of date formats, or you may click the "Settings..." button which will display the "Date/Time Format" dialog box which allows you to enter your own custom format.

Print Time	The time at which the document was last printed is inserted.  This field is always updated each time you print your document.  You may choose from any of a number of time formats, or you may click the "Settings..." button which will display the "Date/Time Format" dialog box which allows you to enter your own custom format.

User Info	You may insert any of the fields from the "User Info" dialog box (see "User Info.." under the Edit menu.

Sequence Number	Inserts a sequence number.  This field is incremented every time it is printed.  If you click on "Settings..." you can change the operating characteristics of this field with the "Sequence Field" dialog box.


Utilities / Insert Picture

Use "Picture..." to insert a picture into the text at the current cursor position.  The "New Picture" dialog box will be displayed which allows you to enter the name of the picture to import.

This command differs from the Object menu command to create a picture in that the picture is inserted into the text rather than attached at an absolute position on the design.  In this way, the picture will move with the surrounding text.


Utilities / Insert Symbol

This command brings up the Insert Symbol dialog.

Insert Symbol Dialog

This dialog allows you to select characters to insert into the current design. Clicking on a symbol in the preview window selects it.

Font	Select the font that you wish to use symbols from.

Insert	Inserts the currently selected symbol (and optionally font) into the current position of the current design.  Note: This will only insert if you are in text mode.

Close	Closes the dialog box.


Utilities / Insert Merge Field

This command brings up the Insert Merge Field dialog

Insert Merge Field Dialog

This dialog allows you to insert merge fields into the design.

Merge Fields	If you have a database selected, the "Merge Fields" list box will contain a list of the available fields from that database.  Otherwise, the list will contain "Field One", "Field Two", etc., which represents the fields of the database in the order they are defined.

Merge File...	You may click on the "Merge File..." button to display the "Set Merge File" dialog box, which allows you to select the database to use.

Insert	Inserts the merge field into the current design at the caret position. Note: This will only insert if you are in text mode.

Close	Closes the Insert Merge Field dialog.


Utilities / Set Merge File

Use "Set Merge File" to specify the database which is to be used merging. Each time a design is printed, each merge field (see the "Utilities / Insert Field" command) in the design will be replaced by the associated field from a record of the database.

Set Merge File Dialog

List Files of Type	Select options from this menu to tell DesignExpress the type of database you want to merge: Windows/ANSI Comma Delimited, DOS/PC-8 Comma Delimited, Windows/ANSI dBASE, DOS/PC-8 dBASE or  MicroVision Databases.  The type you choose here determines the available files in the file list.

Use first record for field name
Check this option if you wish to use the first record of the database for the field names.  This is particularly useful for Comma Delimited databases which do not have field names.

Select the drive and directory where you want DesignExpress to look for databases from the Drives and Directories list boxes.


Utilities / Spell Check

Use "Spell Check" to check the spelling of words in your designs.

Spell Check Dialog Box

Change To	This combo box displays a list of suggested spellings.  Click on the correct spelling or type it in the edit field.

Change	Click on this button to change the selected word to the word displayed in the "Change To" field and then continue checking the remainder of the document.

Change All	Click on this button to change all future occurrences of this misspelled word to the word displayed in the "Change To" field.  Spell checking for other misspelled words continues.

Stop	Click on this button to stop the spell check and return to the document.

Add Word	Click on this button to add the selected word to the user dictionary.  Spell checking for other misspelled words continues.

Ignore	Click on this button to ignore this occurrence of this word.

Ignore All	Click on this button to ignore all occurrences of this word.

Undo Last	Click on this button to undo the last changed word.

To	Press

Perform a spell check	F7


Window / Cascade

Arranges all non-minimized document windows in a cascade fashion starting in the upper left corner of the workspace and moving down and to the right.


Window / Tile

Tiles all non-minimized documents so all are visible simultaneously.


Window / Arrange Icons

Arranges all the icons which represent minimized documents.


Window / Close All

Closes all open documents.


Window / Configure Speed Tools

Use "Configure Speed Tools..." to configure the speed tool palette.  You can choose which speed tools appear on the palette, as well as their order. See "Speed Tools".  The "Customize Speed Tools" dialog box is displayed:

Customize Speed Tools Dialog Box

Tools	Select from this list of tools to add to or remove from the tool palette.

Default	Click this button to install the default set of tools.

Add	Click this button to add the currently selected tool to the palette.  If the tool is currently on the palette, this button will be grayed.

Add All	Click this button to add all of the tools to the palette.

Remove	Click this button to remove the currently selected tool from the palette.  If the tool is not currently on the palette, this button will be grayed.

Remove All	Click this button to remove all of the tools from the palette.

Position	Choose the palette's position.  The palette may be positioned along the top, bottom, left edge or right edge, or may be floating.

Done	Click this button when all modifications are complete.

Configuring the tool palette with the mouse

Display the "Customize Speed Tools" dialog box either by choosing "Configure Speed Tools..." from the Utilities menu or double clicking on the speed tools palette.

You can then add tools to the palette with the mouse by clicking on the tool icon below the "Add All" button and dragging the tool over to the palette.   You can remove tools from the palette with the mouse by clicking on any tool on the palette and dragging it off the palette.  You can re-arrange the order of tools on the palette by clicking on any tool on the palette and dragging it to a new position.

Click "Done" when all modifications are complete.


Window / Window List

This is a list of open windows in DesignExpress


File / Save As (Database)
File / Save As

Save the current database under a different name.

Save Database As Dialog

Database	Name of the current database type.

Filename	Filename to save database as.


File / Page Setup

Setup the page size that records will be printed on.

Page Setup Dialog

Orientation	Click "Portrait" for a top-to-bottom page orientation (long edge vertical); click "Landscape" for a side-to-side page orientation (long edge horizontal).

Paper Size	Choose from several different paper sizes.  Letter size (8½" by 11") is the default.  To use a custom paper size, enter the appropriate values in the Width and Height boxes.

Multiple Across	If checked multiple records will be printed along the width of the page.  (Note: this will be disabled if the paper size is too small to fit two records)

Multiple Down	If checked multiple records will be printed along the length of the page. (Note: this will be disabled if the paper size is too small to fit two records)

Horizontal First	If checked, print order on page will be left to right then top to bottom.

Vertical First	If checked, print order on page will be top to bottom then left to right.

Margins	Enter values for left, right, top, and bottom margins.  Margins are the white space around the borders of a page.


Edit / Delete Record

Deletes the current record.  If "Confirm Delete" is on in the "Preferences", you will get a message box asking if you want to delete the record.


Edit / Cut Record

Cuts the current record to the clipboard. If "Confirm Delete" is on in the "Preferences", you will get a message box asking tou if you want to delete the record.  The record will be placed in the clipboard, and the Paste command will say "Paste Record".  You can only paste a record into the same database type.


Edit / Copy Record

Copies the current record to the clipboard. The record will be placed in the clipboard, and the Paste command will say "Paste Record".  You can only paste a record into the same database type.


Edit / Find Record

Searches for text in field(s) for all records in the database.  The search will begin on the current record, when the last record of the database is checked, DesignExpress will prompt you in whether you want to continue at the beginning of the database.  When the entire database has been searched you will get a message telling you that the record was not found.

Find Record Dialog

Search For	Enter the string that you want to search for in the database.

In Fields	Click to toggle the selection of fields.  Fields that are selected will be searched for the "Search For" text.

To	Press

Find Record	CTRL+F


Edit / Find Next

Continues a previous search.  The search will begin on the next record, when the last record of the database is checked, DesignExpress will prompt you in whether you want to continue at the beginning of the database.  When the entire database has been searched you will get a message telling you that the record was not found.

To	Press

Find Next Record	F3


Database / New Record

Create a new record.  If changes have been made to the current record, it will automatically be saved.

To	Press

Create a New Record	F2


Database / Save Record

Save changes to record.


Database / Cancel Editing

Discard changes to record.


Database / Set Sort Field

Set field(s) to sort on.  Note: this will change the record numbers.

Set Sort Fields Dialog

First Key	This is the first key to index on.

Second Key	This is the second key to index on.

Third Key	This is the third key to index on.

Descending	Check this box if you want the database sorted in descending order (largest to smallest).


Database / Rename Fields

Rename field name(s).

Rename Field Labels Dialog

Field Labels	Select the label with which you want to change the name of.

New Label	Type in the new name for the label.

Set	Sets the current field to the new name and does not exit the dialog.

Done	Closes the dialog.  If changes were made to the current label, you will be prompted on whether you want to save those changes.  Cancel will bring you back to this dialog.


Database / First Record

Goto first record.

To	Press

Move to the First Record	CTRL+PGUP


Database / Previous Record

Goto previous record.

To	Press

Move to the Previous Record	PGUP


Database / Next Record

Goto next record.

To	Press

Move to the Next Record	PGDN


Database / Last Record

Goto last record.

To	Press

Move to the Last Record	CTRL+PGDN


Window / Size To Form

Size window to fit form exactly.


Search SmartDesigns Dialog

Search for Substring	Enter the text that you wish to search for (i.e. diskette)

Start at current position	If checked will begin searching from the currently selected SmartDesign in the New File dialog.

Search Description(s)	If checked will search the product description / compatibility field of the SmartDesigns.


SmartDesign Information Dialog

SmartDesign	The name of the current SmartDesign.

Filename	The name of the file the SmartDesign is inside.

Description	Description of the SmartDesign.

Related SmartDesigns	SmartDesigns that are similar to the current SmartDesign.


Template Information Dialog

Template	The name of the current template.

Template Filename	The name of the file the template is inside.

SmartDesign	SmartDesign which the template is based on.

Description	Description of the SmartDesign that the template is based on.


Database Information Dialog

Database	The name of the current database.

Filename	The name of the file the database template is inside.

Description	Description of the current database.

Fields	Default fields in the current database.


Create Database Dialog

Database	The name of the database type to be created.

Filename	The filename of the database to be created.


Create Directory Dialog

Directory Name	Enter the directory name to create. You may enter an absolute path or a path which is relative the current directory.


Help / Index

Brings up an Index of help topics.


Help / Tips of the Day

This command will toggle whether the "Tip of the Day" dialog box will come up at startup, if this option is on a checkmark will appear to the left of the text.


Help / Help on Help

Retrieves help on using the help system.


Help / Popup Help

This command will toggle whether the popup help is enabled.  Popup help are small windows that appear if you pause over a button.  This is meant to give you feedback on what exactly the button you are over does.  If this option is on a checkmark will appear to the left of the text.


Help / About SmartDesign

Will give you information about the particular template that you are working on.


Help / About

Returns information about DesignExpress (eg. the version number and copyrights)


Toggle Ruler Style

Toggles the look and feel of the ruler.


Check for Overflow Dialog

Overflow Detected	will present you with the design, record (if applicable), block (if applicable), and side (if applicable) where overflow was detected.

Cancel Printing & show offending design/record
Will cancel the print job, and set the current design/record to where overflow was detected.

Cancel Printing & return to current design
Will cancel printing, and not change your current design.

Ignore warning & continue printing
Will go and print with the current options, ignoring the overflow.


Changing Tabs with the Mouse

In order to change tabs with the mouse, the ruler must be turned on.

To add a new tab, click in the horizontal ruler at the position you want the tab.  When you release the mouse button, the tab will be added to all selected paragraphs.

To move an existing tab, simply click on the tab you wish to move and drag it to a new location.

To delete an existing tab, simply click on the tab you wish to delete and drag it downward off of the ruler.


Paragraph Border Dialog

Sample	This field serves two purposes.  First it displays an example of the currently selected border.  Second it is used to specify which edges will be affected when a line style is applied.  The small cursor symbols ' [image] ' are used to mark the edges that will be affected.  You can select an edge by clicking on it with the mouse.  Multiple edges can be selected by holding the Shift key down while you click.  The outer edges (i.e. the top, bottom, left, and right) may be selected by clicking on the interior of the paragraph.

Edit Edge	As an alternative to selecting the edges with the mouse as described above, you can choose the edge(s) from this menu.  "Outline" selects the top, bottom, left, and right edges.  The "Middle" edge is used to set the line type for lines between selected paragraphs.

Style	You may choose the line style from this menu.  The available styles are no line, a single line, or a double line.

Apply Style	Click on one of these predefined styles to apply that line style to the currently selected edges.

Lines	Click on this button to bring up the "Lines" dialog box which will allow you to apply a custom line style to the currently selected edges.

Clearance	Specify the distance you desire between each edge and the paragraph.  By default this distance is in points, but you may specify inches or centimeters by following the number with the letters "in" or "cm" (e.g. 1.00in or 2.54cm)

Bounds	Choose how you want the border to bound the text.  Choose "Margins" if you want the border to extend to the page margins.  Choose "Indents" if you want the border to extend only to the paragraph indents.  Choose "Text" if you want the border to extend only to the text within.

Color	Choose the color you want for the border from the list of colors. See "Defining New Colors".


Frame Border Dialog

Sample	This field serves two purposes.  First it displays an example of the currently selected border.  Second it is used to specify which edges will be affected when a line style is applied.  The small cursor symbols ' [image] ' are used to mark the edges that will be affected.  You can select a edge by clicking on it with the mouse.  Multiple edges can be selected by holding the Shift key down while you click.  The outer edges (i.e. the top, bottom, left, and right) may be selected by clicking on the interior.

Edit Edge	As an alternative to selecting the edges with the mouse as described above, you can choose the edge(s) from this menu.  "Outline" selects the top, bottom, left, and right edges.

Style	You may choose the line style from this menu.  The available styles are no line, a single line, or a double line.

Apply Style	Click on one of these predefined styles to apply that line style to the currently selected edges.

Lines	Click on this button to bring up the "Lines" dialog box which will allow you to apply a custom line style to the currently selected edges.

Color	Choose the color you want for the border from the list of colors. See "Defining New Colors".


New Picture Dialog / Picture Filename Dialog

The "New Picture" dialog box allows you specify the picture you wish to import.

List Files of Type	Select options from this menu to tell DesignExpress the type of picture want to import: Windows Bitmap Format (BMP), Tag Image File Format (TIF), Paintbrush format (PCX), or Windows MetaFile (WMF).  The type you choose here determines the available files in the file list.

Save w/Document	Check this option if you want the picture saved with the document.  If you choose this then the original file containing the picture will no longer be needed.

Merge	Select this to use this as a merged picture field.  See "New Picture / Merge" dialog.

Select the drive and directory where you want DesignExpress to look for pictures from the Drives and Directories list boxes.


New Picture / Merge Dialog

The merge dialog is used to select a merge field from the current Merge Database to use as a picture field.  This field should contain a fully specified path to a supported picture type in all the records.  This dialog is accessed through the "New Picture / Picture filename" dialog.


Edit Line Dialog

If the selected object is a line, then the "Edit Line" dialog box appears when you choose the "Properties..." command or double click on the line.

From / To	The "From" and "To" fields determine the co-ordinates of the line relative to the top-left corner of the page.  It would probably be easier to change the line's position using the mouse, but you can also to it from this dialog if you need to specify exact co-ordinates.  By default, the position is specified in inches, but you may specify the position in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Thickness	Click a "Thickness" option to change the width of the selected line, or enter a line thickness in points in the "Thickness" field.  By default the thickness is specified in points but you may enter the thickness in either inches or centimeters by following the number with the letters "in" or "cm" (e.g. 1.00in or 2.54cm).

Color	The "Color" drop down list box allows you to specify the color which is to be used to draw the line. See "Defining New Colors".


Rectangle Dialog

If the selected object is a rectangle or round-corner rectangle, then the "Rectangle" dialog box appears when you choose the "Properties..." command or double click on the rectangle.

Size/Position

Position	Enter the object's size and position on the page in centimeters.  It's position is measured from the top-left corner of the design.  It would probably be easier to change the object's size and position using the mouse (see "Resizing an object with the mouse", but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact size and position.

Wrap Margin	Enter values for the object's wrap margin in centimeters.  The wrap margins determine the distance of the text from each side of the object, or in other words, how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of the object before wrapping.  See "Changing wrap margins with the mouse" for more detailed information.

By default, the position and wrap margin are specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Properties

Line Style	Select a pre-set line style from the Line Style options, or click the "Lines..." button to display the "Lines" dialog box for more options.

Color	Select the color of the lines of the rectangle. See "Defining New Colors".

Wrap	Choose the type of wrap from this pull-down menu.  Choose "None" for no text wrapping, that is, text will flow over the object, ignoring its wrap margins; choose "Line" if you want text to jump over the object and continue below it; choose "Text" if you want text to wrap around all sides of an object.

Square	Click this option if you want the selected rectangle to be a square, that is, setting the rectangle's height equal to its width.  Note that you can create squares by holding down the Shift key while your are resizing the rectangle with the mouse.

Rounded Corners	Click this option if you want the rectangle to be round-corner rectangle, all four corners will be beveled.

Shades...	Click this button to open the "Shades" dialog box where you can select a shade or fill-pattern for the rectangle.  This is the same as choosing the "Shades..." command from the format menu.

Lines...	Click this button to open the "Lines" dialog box to set the line style.

Corners...	Click this button to open the "Corners" dialog box.


Corners Dialog

Width	This is the width of the corner curve.

Height	This is the height of the corner curve.

Rounded Corners	Click this option if you want the rectangle to be round-corner rectangle, all four corners will be beveled.


Ellipse Dialog

If the selected object is an ellipse, the "Ellipse" dialog box appears when you choose the "Properties..." command or when you double click on the ellipse.

Size/Position

Position	Enter the ellipse's size and position on the design in centimeters.  It's position is measured from the top-left corner of the page.  It would probably be easier to change the ellipse's size and position using the mouse (see "Resizing an object with the mouse"), but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact size and position.

By default, the position and wrap margin are specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Wrap Margin	Enter values for the ellipse's wrap margin in inches.  The wrap margins determine the distance of the text from each side of the ellipse, or in other words, how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of the ellipse before wrapping.  See "Changing wrap margins with the mouse" for more detailed information.  The wrap region is a rectangle.

Properties

Line Style	Select a pre-set line style from the Line Style options, or click the "Lines..." button to display the "Lines" dialog box for more options.

Color	Select the color of the lines of the rectangle. See "Defining New Colors".

Wrap	Choose the type of wrap from this pull-down menu.  Choose "None" for no text wrapping, that is, text will flow over the ellipse, ignoring its wrap margins; choose "Line" if you want text to jump over the ellipse and continue below it; choose "Text" if you want text to wrap around all sides of an ellipse.

Circle	Click this option to change the selected ellipse to a circle.  Note that you can create circles with the mouse by holding the Shift key while you resize the circle with the mouse (see "Resizing an object with the mouse").

Lines...	Click this button to open the "Lines" dialog box to set the line style.

Shades...	Click this button to open the "Shades" dialog box where you can select a shade or fill-pattern for the ellipse.  This is the same as choosing the "Shades..." command from the format menu.


Text Frame Dialog

If the selected object is a text frame, the "Text Frame" dialog box appears when you choose the "Properties..." command or double click on the text frame.

Position

Position	Enter the text frame's size and position on the page in inches.  It's position is measured from the top-left corner of the design.  It would probably be easier to change the frame's size and position using the mouse (see "Resizing an object with the mouse"), but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact size and position.

Wrap Margin	Enter values for the text frame's wrap margin in inches.  The wrap margins determine the distance of text external to the frame from each side of the frame, or in other words, how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of the frame before wrapping.  See "Changing wrap margins with the mouse" for more detailed information.

By default, the position, margins, and wrap margin are specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Properties

Wrap Text	Click this option if you want text contained within the text frame itself to wrap around any objects placed within the frame.

Wrap	Choose the type of wrap from this pull-down menu.  Choose "None" for no text wrapping, that is, text will flow over the text frame, ignoring its wrap margins; choose "Line" if you want text to jump over the text frame and continue below it; choose "Text" if you want text to wrap around all sides of the text frame.

Rotation	Choose from one of four rotations for the text frame:  0, 90, 180 and 270 degrees.

Alignment	Choose from one of four vertical alignments for the selected text frame: Top, Bottom, Center and Flush.

Margins

Margins	Enter the margins between the edge of the text frame and the text.  You can change the margins with the mouse by holding down the Shift key while you follow the same procedure for resizing the text frame.  Instead of being resized, the text margins will be set.

Growth

Horizontal	Select either:
Fixed	Normal Fixed width text frame.
Align Left	Text frame grows horizontally leaving the left edge of the text frame at the current position.
Align Center	Text frame grows horizontally leaving the center of the text frame at the current position.
Align Right	Text frame grows horizontally leaving the right edge of the text frame at the current position.

Vertical	Select either:
Fixed	Normal Fixed height text frame.
Align Top	Text frame grows vertically leaving the top edge of the text frame at the current position.
Align Center	Text frame grows vertically leaving the center of the text frame at the current position.
Align Bottom	Text frame grows vertically leaving the bottom edge of the text frame at the current position.

Maximum	Enter the largest width/height that the text frame should be allowed to grow to.  This only has an effect on growing text frames.

Minimum	Enter the smallest width/height that the text frame should be allowed to shrink to.  This only has an effect on growing text frames.

Border...	Click this button to open the "Frame Border" dialog box where you can select the style of border to be used for the text frame.

Shades...	Click this button to open the "Shades" dialog box where you can select a shade or fill-pattern for the background of the text frame.  This is the same as choosing the "Shades..." command from the format menu.


OLE Object Dialog

(32 bit only) If the selected object is an OLE object, the "OLE Object" dialog box appears when you choose the "Properties..." command or double click on the picture.

Size/Position

Position	Enter the object's position on the design in inches.  It's position is measured from the top-left corner of the design.  It would probably be easier to change the picture's position using the mouse (see "Moving objects with the mouse"), but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact position.

Size	Enter the size of the object.  You may either enter the size in inches or as a percent of the OLE object's size.  It may be easier to change the object's size using the mouse (see "Resizing an object with the mouse"), but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact size.

Wrap Margin	Enter values for the object's wrap margin in inches.  The wrap margins determine the distance of text each side of the object, or in other words, how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of the object before wrapping.  See "Changing wrap margins with the mouse" for more detailed information.

By default, the position, size and wrap margin are specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Maintain Scale Factor	Click this option if you wish for the scale factor to remain constant if the object's size changes.

Maintain Aspect Ratio	Click this option if you wish for the original aspect ratio of the object to be preserved when it is resized.

Properties

Wrap	Choose the type of wrap from this pull-down menu.  Choose "None" for no text wrapping, that is, text will flow over the object, ignoring its wrap margins; choose "Line" if you want text to jump over the object and continue below it; choose "Text" if you want text to wrap around all sides of the object.

Margins	Enter the margins between the edge of the frame and the object.  You can change the margins with the mouse by holding down the Shift key while you follow the same procedure for resizing the object.  Instead of being resized, the object margins will be set.


Picture Dialog

If the selected object is a picture, the "Picture" dialog box appears when you choose the "Properties..." command or double click on the picture.

Size/Position

Position	Enter the picture's position on the design in inches.  It's position is measured from the top-left corner of the design.  It would probably be easier to change the picture's position using the mouse (see "Moving objects with the mouse"), but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact position.

Size	Enter the size of the picture.  You may either enter the size in inches or as a percent of the original picture's size.  It may be easier to change the picture's size using the mouse (see "Resizing an object with the mouse"), but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact size.

Wrap Margin	Enter values for the picture's wrap margin in inches.  The wrap margins determine the distance of text each side of the picture, or in other words, how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of the picture before wrapping.  See "Changing wrap margins with the mouse" for more detailed information.

By default, the position, size and wrap margin are specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Maintain Aspect Ratio	Click this option if you wish for the original aspect ratio of the picture to be preserved when it is resized.

Properties

Save w/Document	Click this option if you wish for the picture to be saved with the document.  Once the picture has been saved with the document, the link to the original file is lost and this option will be automatically checked and dimmed.

Save as compressed	Click this option if you wish for the picture to be saved in a compressed format inside the document.  This option is only available for bitmap, TIFF, and PCX picture formats.  Choosing this option can result in a significantly smaller file.

Wrap	Choose the type of wrap from this pull-down menu.  Choose "None" for no text wrapping, that is, text will flow over the picture, ignoring its wrap margins; choose "Line" if you want text to jump over the picture and continue below it; choose "Text" if you want text to wrap around all sides of the picture.

Note that the Wrap option is only available for pictures which were added using the picture tool under the "Tools" command on the Object menu (or from the control strip).  The Wrap option is not available for pictures which are inserted into the text via the "Picture" command on the Insert menu.

Rotations	Choose from one of four rotations for bitmaps (0, 90, 180 and 270 degrees) or choose any arbitrary angle for Windows Metafiles.

Foreground Color	Choose the foreground color you wish for the picture.  If you choose "Full Color" then the picture will be displayed and using the its original colors.

Background Color	Choose the background color you wish for the picture.  If you have chosen "Full Color" for the foreground color, then this value is ignored.

Margin/Crop

Margins	Enter the margins between the edge of the frame and the picture.  You can change the margins with the mouse by holding down the Shift key while you follow the same procedure for resizing the picture.  Instead of being resized, the picture margins will be set.

Crop	Enter the cropping values.  You enter the left, top, right, and bottom crop values as a percentage of the original pictures width and height.  You can change the crop the picture with the mouse by holding down the Control key while you follow the same procedure for resizing the picture.  Instead of being resized, the picture will be cropped.

Border...	Click this button to open the "Frame Border" dialog box where you can select the style of border to be used for the text frame.

File...	Click on the button to bring up the "Picture File Name" dialog box which allows you specify a new file name for the imported picture.  You can use this option to change the picture.


Text Effect Dialog

Text Effects allow you to do artistic representations of text.

Text	Type in the text you want to display here,  You can enter multiple lines by pressing Ctrl-Enter.

Sample	This is a sample of what the text effect will look like.

Effect	This is a list of effects that can be performed on the text.

Variation	This is a list of variations that you can select for the current "Effect".

Font	This is the font that the effects will be rendered on.

Style	This is the style of the font that the effects will be render on.

Alignment	This is the horizontal alignment to use on the rendered effect.

Fill...	Brings up the "Character Fill" dialog box (same as "Shades"), and let's you enter a shade/color that the font's characters will be filled with.

Shades...	Brings up the "Background Shade" dialog box (same as "Shades"), and let's you enter a shade/color that the text effect area will be filled with.

Outline...	Brings up the "Outline" dialog box, and let's you specify what the outline of the characters in the text effect will look like.

Border...	Brings up the "Border" dialog box (same as "Ouline"), and let's you specify what the border surrounding the text effect will look like.

Shadow...	Brings up the "Character Shadow" dialog box (same as "Shades"), and let's you specify a shadow for the Text Effect.

More...	Brings up the "Text Effect Frame" dialog box.

Preview	Updates the sample window with the current options.


Text Effect Frame Dialog

Position	Enter the text effect's size and position on the page in inches.  It's position is measured from the top-left corner of the design.  It would probably be easier to change the frame's size and position using the mouse (see "Resizing an object with the mouse"), but you can also do it from this dialog if you need to specify an exact size and position.

Wrap Margin	Enter values for the text effect's wrap margin in inches.  The wrap margins determine the distance of text each side of the picture, or in other words, how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of the picture before wrapping.  See "Changing wrap margins with the mouse" for more detailed information.

By default, the position, size and wrap margin are specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Frame Margin	Specify the amount of margin from the bounds of the object to the text effect. By default, the position is specified in inches, but you may specify them in centimeters or points by following the number with the letters "cm" or "pt" (e.g. 2.54cm or 72.0pt).

Text Margin	Specify the percentage of margin from the bounds of the text effect to the actual text effect.  Left and Right values are a percentage of the unrendered width of the text block.  Top and Bottom are a percentage of the unrendered height of the text block.

Shadow Offset	Specify the percentage to offset the shadow from the actual text effect.  Horizontal is a percentage of the unrendered width of the text block, Vertical is a percentage of the unrendered height of the text block.

Rotation	Specify the amount of degrees to rotate the text effect.

Shades...	Brings up the "Shades" dialog box, so you can specify a color/shade for the text effect frame.

Lines...	Brings up the "Frame Border" dialog box, so you can specify the border type for the text effect frame.


Group Dialog

Size/Position

Position 	Enter the group's position on the page in inches.  It's position is measured from the top-left corner of the design.

Wrap Margin	Enter values for the group's wrap margin in inches.  The wrap margins determine the distance of text each side of the picture, or in other words, how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of the group before wrapping.  See "Changing wrap margins with the mouse" for more detailed information.

Properties

Note: these fields will only affect groups with autogrow text frames inside of them.  These options are only for limiting growth, they will not shrink a group that has already exceeded any of the numbers here.

Horizontal	Select group auto growth horizontal alignment: None, Left, Center, or Right.

Max	Maximum width to allow group to grow to.

Independent	If this box is checked, all growing text frames will be set to a maximum width equal to the "Max" field, if it is not checked, all growing text frames will be set to a maximum width equal to the width in the "Max" field minus the group's current width plus the text frame's current width.

Vertical	Select group auto growth vertical alignment: None, Top, Center or bottom.

Max	Maximum height to allow group to grow to.

Independent	If this box is checked, all growing text frames will be set to a maximum height equal to the "Max" field, if it is not checked, all growing text frames will be set to a maximum height equal to the height in the "Max" field minus the group's current height plus the text frame's current height.


Design Editor Modes

DesignExpress has two modes - text mode and object mode.  Text mode is where you enter and format text.  Objects are created and manipulated in object mode, also called pointer mode because you switch to this mode by clicking the pointer button.  The difference between the two modes is quite obvious: you select text with the I-beam cursor (text mode), and graphic objects with the arrow pointer (object mode).  Each mode has its own button on the "Control Strip":

Click this button to switch to text mode where you can enter, edit, and format text.

Click this button to switch to object mode where you can create, modify, and position graphic objects, pictures, text frames, and tables.

You can also switch between text and object modes by clicking the right mouse button.

DesignExpress knows which commands are available in which modes.  Most Format menu commands (except for "Borders...", "Lines...", and "Shades..."), for example, are not used to manipulate objects, and are therefore grayed out when you click the pointer button.  Likewise, most of the Object menu commands are unavailable when you are in text mode. Text frames possess attributes that are edited using both modes.  The text contained within a text frame is edited in text mode, but the frame itself - its size, position, border, and fill attributes - are edited in object mode.


Design Editor View Modes

DesignExpress has two viewing modes for SmartDesigns.

Full Page	shows you pages of the stock you will be printing on with the designs laid out onto these pages.  You can switch to this mode by selecting "View / Full Page".

Single Design	shows you a single side and design, this allows you to concentrate more on the design you are working on. You can switch to this mode by selecting "View / Single Design".


Design Editor Zoom Modes

DesignExpress supports zoom modes from 30% to 400%.  SmartDesigns have five default zoom levels which you can switch between with the "View / Zoom In" and "View / Zoom Out" menu commands.  In addition you may select a custom zoom level with the "View / Custom" menu command or zoom in on an area with the Zoom Tool.


Selecting Objects

You select objects in object mode by clicking them with the mouse.  When an object is selected, it is highlighted.  A lighter colored border line may also appear around the outside of the object - this is the object's wrap margin.  Wrap margins determine how close text in your document will appear to the object before wrapping over or below the object. (See Changing wrap margins with the mouse for more information.)

Selecting multiple objects

You can select more than one object at a time by holding down the Shift key when you click.  For example, select an object with the mouse, hold down the Shift key, and click another object.  Both objects are now selected.  While still holding down the Shift key, click another object.  Now three objects are selected.  Selecting multiple objects makes changing their attributes easy because you can change them all at once.  You can also move multiple objects together as a group.

A second way to select with multiple objects is to click and drag in the document at a position where there are not any objects.  As you drag, a rectangle will be drawn.  When you release the mouse button, all objects which intersect with the rectangle will be selected.


Resizing an object with the mouse

To change an object's size, first select the object by clicking it,  then move the mouse directly over one of its sides or one of its corners.  Make sure to position the pointer over the object boundary itself and not its wrap margin (the light colored border line around the outside of the object).  The pointer changes to a white double arrow:  depending on which side or corner it is positioned.  Simply click and drag in one of the directions of the double-arrows to increase or decrease the object's size.

If the object being sized is a rectangle, or ellipse, then holding down the shift key when resizing the object constrains its aspect ratio to a square or a circle.

Note that if the wrap margin has been set to zero then you will not be able to size the object without first dragging the wrap margin out.


Moving objects with the mouse

To move an object, first switch to object mode, click the pointer anywhere on the object and drag.  The pointer changes to [image] when you position it over a selected object.  When you let go of the mouse button, the object is moved to the new location.  It is still selected, allowing you to move it again, format it, delete it, etc.  Objects can not be moved past the edges of a design.  If you want to move an object to a different design, you have to cut it, go to the destination design, then paste the object.


Changing Wrap margins with the mouse

When you select an object, a border line appears around it (if wrap margins are on in the Preferences).  This line represents the object's "wrap margin".  The wrap margin determines how close text in your document may appear above, below, or to either side of an object before wrapping.  To change an object's wrap margin, first click the object, then move the mouse directly on top of the wrap margin you want to change.  The pointer changes to a gray double-arrow:  depending on which wrap margin you want to change.  Simply click and drag in one of the directions of the double-arrows to increase or decrease the wrap margin.


Hide

Allows you to toggle of the button bar or variation bar.


Deselect All

Allows you to deselect all objects.


Switch to Pointer Mode

Switches you to pointer mode for easy object selection / modifying.


Switch to Text Mode

Switches to text mode, and cancels the current object selection.


Defining New Colors

The last item in the list of colors is "Define Colors", selecting this item will bring up the "Define Color" dialog box.  After you have defined colors, the color selected in the "Define Color" dialog box is automatically applied.


Define Color Dialog

This dialog allows you to define your own custom colors for text or objects.  You may choose colors by entering a Red, Green and Blue value; a Hue, Saturation, and Luminence value, picking one of the basic colors, or by clicking on the color diagram in the upper right of the dialog.  Note colors are mapped, if you change the color named 'Black' to a shade of orange, everywhere the color named 'Black' was used will be in the color orange.

Hue/Sat/Lum	Enter in the Hue, Saturation and Luminence for a color.  Numbers are from 0 to 255.

Red/Green/Blue	Enter in an RGB color value. Numbers are from 0 to 255.

Color|Solid	This shows you the current specified color, in both dithered and solid form. (Windows cannot use dithered colors for text).

Basic Colors	These are 48 basic colors.  Clicking on one of these sets the color.  This is useful for a starting point on a custom color.  For instance to create an orange color, you might start with the color in column two, row 4.

Define Color	Select a color to change and/or type in a name for your new color.

Add	Click on this button to create a new color entry with the name and color specified.

Change	Click on this button to change the color selected in the "Define Color" list, to the name and color specified.

OK	Click on this button to apply your changes and to select the current color in the "Define Colors" list.


Date / Time Format Dialog

The "Date/Time Format" dialog box allows you to enter an arbitrary date or time format.  You should enter a string which consists of codes from the following table which are used to build up the date and/or time:

Date	m	Month (numeric)	1
mm	Month (numeric 2 digits)	01
mmm	Month (abbr.)	Jan
mmmm	Month (full)	January
d	Day 	2
dd	Day (2 digits)	02
ddd	Day of week (abbr.)	Wed
dddd	Day of week (full)	Wednesday
yy	Year (2 digits)	94
yyyy	Year (4 digits)	1994

Time	H	Hour (12 hour)	1
HH	Hour (12 hour, 2 digits)	01
h	Hour (24 hour)	13
hh	Hour (24 hour, 2 digits)	13
M	Minutes	5
MM	Minutes (2 digits)	05
S	Seconds	9
SS	Seconds (2 digits)	09
AM	AM/PM	PM


Sequence Field Dialog

Initial Value	This is the starting value of the field.

Current Value	This is the current value of the field.

Increment	This is the number that should be added to the field to increment it.

Maximum Value	This is the largest value the field should be allowed to increment to before it is reset to the initial value.

Reset after printing	If checked, this sequence field will be reset to the initial value after a print job is complete.

Zero Fill	This will zero fill the number (i.e. 0000001 instead of 1).


Control/Status Strip local menu

Hide	Hides the strip.

Top	Sets the strip to the top.

Bottom	Sets the strip to the bottom.

Left	Sets the strip to the left.

Right	Sets the strip to the right.

Float	Sets the strip to a floating window.

Properties	Edit the strip properties.


Insert Page Dialog

Prompt to reinsert pages after flipping them to print the second side(s) of two sided designs.


Object Change Warning Dialog

This dialog is displayed when a variation request could cause user-modified data to be lost.  The types of data that cannot be retained are design object size and positioning, design object attributes and certain paragraph and character formatting.  Click "Yes" to continue with the new variation or click "No" to cancel the variation request.


Variation Switches

Stock, Layout, Accent, Font and Point Size

These switches allow you to toggle (on/off) the variation controls for stocks, layouts, accents, fonts, and point sizes.


Design Editor Button Bar

The button bar is displayed along the left side of the Design Editor Window.


Button Bar / New
Starts a new file (SmartDesign/Database/Template).  See "File / New".


Button Bar / Open
Opens a previously saved file (SmartDesign/Database/Template).  See "File / Open".


Button Bar / Save
Saves the current design.  See "File / Save".


Button Bar / Print
Prints out designs.  See "File / Print".


Button Bar / Zoom In
Zooms in one factor.  See "View / Zoom In".


Button Bar / Zoom Out
Zooms out one factor.  See "View / Zoom Out".


Button Bar / Zoom Tool
Allows you to zoom in on an area.  Click and drag to select are to zoom in on.


Button Bar / Zoom to fit
Zooms in so entire design / page is visible.  See "View / Zoom to fit".


Button Bar / Duplicate Design
Duplicates design(s).  See "Design / Duplicate".


Button Bar / Delete Design
Deletes design(s).  See "Design / Delete".


Button Bar / Show Rulers
Toggles rulers on and off.  See "View / Show Rulers".


Button Bar / Insert Field
Inserts a merge field into text.  See "Utilities / Insert Merge Field".


Button Bar / Counter
Displays what design you are on, and how many designs are in the current block.


Button Bar / VCR Controls
These buttons allow you to traverse through the designs in the current block.  The buttons are for First Design, Previous Design, Next Design, and Last Design respectively.


Button Bar / Show Item(s)
Allows you to hide / show items in the current design.  See "Design / Show Item(s)".


Button Bar / Sides
Toggles between Inside and Outside views.  (Only on two sided designs)


Design Editor Variation Bar

The Variation bar is displayed along the bottom of the Design Editor Window for non-blank SmartDesigns.


Variation Bar / Button Bar Toggle
Click to toggle the Button Bar. See "DesignEditor Button Bar".


Variation Bar / Stocks
Click to switch between the different stocks available.


Variation Bar / Layouts
Click to switch between the different layouts available.


Variation Bar / Accents
Click to switch between the different accents available.


Variation Bar / Fonts
Click to switch between the different fonts available.


Variation Bar / Point Sizes
Click to switch between the different point sizes available.


Control Strip

The control strip is displayed along the top of the DesignExpress window, the controls available change depending upon whether the current window is a Design Editor or Database window.

Design Editor Control Strip

Database Control Strip


Control Strip / VCR Controls
These buttons allow you to traverse through the records in the current database.  The buttons are for First Record, Previous Record, Next Record, and Last Record respectively.


Control Strip / New Record
This button saves the current record, and creates a new blank record.  See "Database / New Record".


Control Strip / Save Changes
This button saves changes in the current record.  See "Database / Save Record".


Control Strip / Cancel Changes
This button cancels changes made in the current record. See "Database / Cancel Changes".


Control Strip / Set Sort Fields
This button allows you to change the sort fields.  See "Database / Set Sort Fields".


Control Strip / Rename Field Labels
This button allows you to change the field labels.  See "Database / Rename Fields".


Control Strip / I-Beam Tool
This button switches to I-Beam mode.  See Modes.


Control Strip / Arrow Tool
This button switches to pointer mode.  See Modes.


Control Strip / Rotation Tool
This button selects the Rotation Tool.  This tool allows you to rotate  text frames and bitmaps at 90 degree increments, and metafiles and Text Effects at any arbitrary angle. (Note: Groups cannot be rotated.)


Control Strip / Text Frame Tool
This button selects the "Text Frame" tool.


Control Strip / Picture Tool
This button selects the "Picture" tool.


Control Strip / OLE Object Tool
(32 bit only) This button selects the "OLE object" tool.


Control Strip / Text Effect Tool
This button selects the "Text Effect" tool.


Control Strip / Line Tool
This button selects the "Line" tool.


Control Strip / Rectangle Tool
This button selects the "Rectangle" tool.


Control Strip / Rounded Rectangle Tool
This button selects the "Rounded Rectangle" tool.


Control Strip / Ellipse Tool
This button selects the "Ellipse" tool.


Control Strip / Font Selection
This is a combobox, where you can select or type in a font name to use or apply to the current selection.


Control Strip / Point Size Selection
This is a combobox, where you can select or type in a point size to use or apply to the current selection.


Control Strip / Bold
This button toggles the bold attribute for selected text, or for text about to be entered.


Control Strip / Italic
This button toggles the italic attribute for selected text, or for text about to be entered.


Control Strip / Underline
This button toggles the underline attribute for selected text, or for text about to be entered.


Control Strip / Horizontal Alignment
This button changes the horizontal alignment of the current paragraph. The options are left, right, centered, and justified.


Control Strip / Vertical Alignment
This button changes the vertical alignment of the current frame.  The options are top, bottom, centered, and flush.  This is only available for text frames which do not size vertically.


Status Strip

The status strip is displayed along the bottom of the DesignExpress Window.  The status strip changes depending on whether the current window is a Design Editor or Database Window.

Design Editor Status Strip

Database Status Strip


Status Strip / Current Status
This box displays information on what DesignExpress is currently doing (if hourglass is on) and gives information about the control the cursor is over.


Status Strip / Item Name
This box displays the name of the currently selected object.


Status Strip / Template Name
This box displays the name of the current SmartDesign Stock.


Status Strip / Record Count
This box displays the current record and record count in the current database.


Speed Tools

The speed tools are displayed above the control strip.  The speed tools available depend on whether the current window is a Design Editor or a Database Window.

Design Editor Speed Tools

Database Speed Tools


Speed Tools / New
This button starts a new file (SmartDesign/Database/Template).  See "File / New".


Speed Tools / Open
This button opens a previously saved file (SmartDesign/Database/Template).  See "File / Open".


Speed Tools / Save
This button saves the current design.  See "File / Save".


Speed Tools / Save As (Design Editor)
This button saves the current design under a new name.  See "File / Save As".


Speed Tools / Print (Design Editor)
This button prints out designs.  See "File / Print".


Speed Tools / Calibrate Printer
This button calibrates the printer.  See "File / Calibrate Printer".


Speed Tools / Printer Setup
This button sets up the printer.  See "File / Printer Setup".


Speed Tools / Undo/Redo
This button undoes and redoes previous operation. See "Edit / Undo and Edit / Redo".


Speed Tools / Cut
This button copies text or objects to the clipboard to paste elsewhere, and then deletes them.  See "Edit / Cut".


Speed Tools / Copy
This button copies text or objects to the clipboard to paste elsewhere.  See "Edit / Copy".


Speed Tools / Paste
This button pastes text or objects from the clipboard into the current frame/design.  See "Edit / Paste".


Speed Tools / Find (Design Editor)
This button searches for text and/or formatting. See "Edit / Search".


Speed Tools / Replace
This button searches for and replaces text and/or formatting.  See "Edit / Replace".


Speed Tools / Find Next (Design Editor)
This button repeats the last Search or Replace operation.  See "Edit / Repeat Last".


Speed Tools / Send to Front
This button brings the object to the top of all other objects.  See "Edit / Bring to Front".


Speed Tools / Send to Back
This button sends the object to the back of all other objects.  See "Edit / Send to Back".


Speed Tools / Select All
This button selects all objects in the current design or all text in the current frame.  See "Edit / Select All".


Speed Tools / Preferences
This button displays the "Preferences" dialog box.


Speed Tools / Show Item
This button shows/hides items in the current design.  See "Design / Show Item".


Speed Tools / Set Merge File
This button sets the database file to use for merges.  See "Utilities / Set Merge File".


Speed Tools / Insert Field
This button inserts a merge field at the current position.  See "Utilities / Insert Merge Field".


Speed Tools / Edit Stocks
This button changes the stock for the current SmartDesign.  See "Edit / Stocks".


Speed Tools / About SmartDesign
This button displays information about the current SmartDesign.  See "Help / About SmartDesign".


Speed Tools / Spell Check
This button spell checks the current SmartDesign.  See "Utilities / Spell Check".


Speed Tools / Save As (Database)
This button saves the current database under a new name.  See "File / Save As",


Speed Tools / Print (Database)
This button prints out record(s) in the current database.  See the "Print Database" dialog box.


Speed Tools / Page Setup
This button sets up the page properties that the database will be printed to.  See "File / Page Setup".


Speed Tools / Cut Record
This button copies the current record to the clipboard and then deletes it.  See "Edit / Cut Record".


Speed Tools / Copy Record
This button copies the current  record to the clipboard.  See "Edit / Copy Record".


Speed Tools / Delete Record
This button deletes the current record from the database.  See "Edit / Delete Record".


Speed Tools / New Record
This button saves the current record, and creates a new blank record.  See "Database / New Record".


Speed Tools / Save Record
This button saves changes in the current record.  See "Database / Save Record".


Speed Tools / Cancel Changes
This button cancels changes made in the current record. See "Database / Cancel Changes".


Speed Tools / Find (Database)
This button searches records for a string in specified field(s).  See "Edit / Find Record".


Speed Tools / Find Next (Database)
This button repeats a previous search.  See "Edit / Find Next".


Speed Tools / Set Sort Fields
This button allows you to change the sort fields.  See "Database / Set Sort Fields".


Speed Tools / Change Field Names
This button allows you to change the field labels.  See "Database / Rename Fields".


Speed Tools / Preferences (Database)
This button brings up the Database "Preferences" dialog box.


Speed Tools / Size Window to Form
This button sizes the window to exactly fit the form for the current database.  See "Window / Size to Form".


Custom Page Setup Dialog

The Custom Page Setup Dialog allows you to create or modify a template to match an unsupported label type.

Include SmartDesigns	If checked, the template will be based upon the SmartDesigns in the template listed.  e.g. This will allow you to modify the 3 1/2" diskette labels (5096) for a different layout of labels, without losing the capability of SmartDesigns.  If the label sizes are substantially different, you probably want to have this unchecked.

Block Attributes	This lets you select the design block you want to modify, you cannot add or delete blocks.

Circular	This specifies circular labels.

Alternating	This specifies an alternating design.  This currently is only useful for CD-ROM labels where the labels are not organized in orderly row/column fashion.

Across	This sets the number of designs horizontally across the page.  If the Alternating checkbox is checked, this is the number of paired designs across the page.

Down	This sets the number of designs vertically down the page.  It performs the same function whether or not the Alternating checkbox is checked.

Width	This specifies the width of the design.

Height	This specifies the height of the design.

Left	This specifies the left/horizontal position of the first design on the page.

Top	This specifies the top/vertical position of the first design on the page.

Horizontal Gutter	This specifies the horizontal gutter or space between the design horizontally.  If the Alternate checkbox is checked, this specifies the horizontal offset between the first and second (in the zig-zag pair) designs, and the next horizontal design is twice this distance.

Vertical Gutter	This specifies the vertical gutter or vertical space between the designs.  If the Alternate checkbox is checked, this is the vertical distance from the first to second (in the zig-zag pair) designs, and the next vertical design is twice this distance.

Bleed	This sets the 'bleed' space around a design, objects can be moved into this space.  The bleeds of two designs may overlap, but the bleed of one design cannot overlap another design.

Preview	This is the preview window, it shows what the design will look like.

Calibrate	Press this button to go to the Calibrate Printer dialog, you can use this to print a calibration sheet to compare your label sheet with the current template.

Paper Size	Press this button to go to the Template Paper Size dialog.  This dialog let's you specify orientation, size of label sheet, two sided and the number of parts.

Names/Folders	Press this button to go to the Template Names/Folders dialog.  This dialog will come up the first time you create a template if you don't specify a name.


Template Paper Size Dialog

The Template Paper Size Dialog allows you to change the paper size and other page oriented fields for the template.

Width	The width of the paper.

Height	The height of the paper.

Orientation	The orientation (Portrait or Landscape) of the paper.

Number of Parts	The number of parts to the page.  This is often used for label mini-sheets.


Template Names/Folders Size Dialog
Template Names/Folders Dialog

The Template Names/Folders Dialog allows you to set the name, description and folder for the template.

Name	This is the name of the template. Template names must be unique in a folder.

Description	This is a description of the template.  This description is shown in the new dialog when the template is selected.

Place in Folder	For templates that are using on SmartDesigns, This checkbox can be unchecked to place the Template in every folder where the SmartDesign template is located.  If checked, you can select a folder from the browse list to place the template in.


Registration Dialog

In order to better serve our customers, the DesignExpress 1.1 program is the same for Unregistered and Registered copies.  This means that updates will be available from our Website (http://www.mvd.com) to get the latest fixes and features.  When you first order, however you will be sent a full version which will have the Registered Fonts and Templates in addition to a printed manual.  To disable the timeouts, you will receive a code from MicroVision.  This code and the name on the registration sheet needs to be typed in exactly as it appears.  If you are a registered user of DesignExpress 1.0, give us a call and we will generate a code for you. See Purchasing DesignExpress.

Registration Name	Enter your name exactly as it appears on your registration sheet.

Registration Key	Enter the key/code exactly as it appears on your registration sheet.


Picture Warning Dialog

This dialog is displayed on loading a design when a picture inserted into a file could not be found.

Skip	Skips this picture, the picture will be shown as a gray rectangle.

Skip All	Skips all pictures, all pictures will be shown as a gray rectangle.

File	Let's you select a new file to use for the picture.

Cancel	Cancels the loading of the file.


Tip of the Day Dialog

This dialog may give you some useful insight on how DesignExpress  works.

Did you know...	The tip for this session.

Show Tips at Startup	If you uncheck this, you won't see the Tip of the Day dialog everytime you start up, until you turn it back on with the "Help / Tips of the Day" menu command.

Close	This will close the dialog enabling you to start working in DesignExpress.

Next Tip	This will bring up the next tip of the day.

More Tips	This will bring up the "More Tips" help topic.


More Tips

These are a selection of tips to using DesignExpress.

If you always want a new window created with the New and Open commands of the File menu.  You can specify this by choosing the "Preferences..." command from the Edit Menu and checking the Default New Windows option in the General folder.

The four most recently used documents are listed at the bottom of the File menu for easy access.  See "File / File History".

When drawing objects, press the Shift key to constrain the object.

Even though DesignExpress usually displays values in inches, you can also specify points or centimeters in edit boxes that accept units by appending "pt" or "cm"

You can create horizontal and vertical guides with the pointer tool by clicking and dragging from the horizontal or vertical ruler.

Double clicking anywhere inside the speed tools palette opens the "Customize Speed Tools" dialog box.

Check the "Use first record for field names" option in the "Set Database" dialog box if you are merging from a CSV file, when the first record contains the field names.

Selecting the "Blank Designs" option in the "New" dialog box gives you full control over the look of your design.

You can save a frequently used design as a user template so that you can find it quickly and easily.

You can add a frequently used template to the Favorites list by clicking on "Add To Favorites" in the File "New" Dialog box.

The left mouse button will switch you in between the I-Beam and Pointer tools.

You can turn "Sticky Tools" on in the "Preferences" Dialog box, so that when you add objects, the tool does not switch back to the Pointer or I-Beam tool.

You can customize the colors DesignExpress uses in the "Preferences" Dialog box.

You can insert sequence fields, with the "Insert Field..." command.

If you want to, you can turn off the tips of the day by turning off the "Show Tips of the Day" checkbox.

You can center objects on a point by using guides, and checking the "Snap to center" checkbox in the "Set Grid" Dialog box.

You can rotate Windows Metafiles and Text Effects at any arbitrary angle.

You can go to "Full Page view" to get a quick look at what your output will be like.

By clicking on the sample in the "Print" dialog box you can tell DesignExpress where you want to start printing.

DesignExpress was created by the same company that brought you the award winning Word Processor "WordExpress".

White text on a black background will only work with LaserJet compatible printers if you turn font downloading off.

You can turn off the Background Objects and Pictures with the "Preferences" dialog box.

Setup the user information in the "Preferences" dialog box  and your designs will come in with your information on them.

You can search for a label product number by pressing the "Search..." button in the "New" dialog box.

If you use a certain label type alot, you can add it to Personal Favorites, so it's always accessible at the top of the list.

You can change the units for the Rulers via the measurements set in the Control Panel.


Design Editor Keyboard

Movement Keys

Text Selection Keys

Formatting Keys

Editing Keys

View Keys

Menu Shortcut Keys


Design Editor Movement Keys

To Move	Press

Left one character

Left one word	CTRL+

Right one character

Right one word	CTRL+

Up one line

Up one paragraph	CTRL+

Down one line

Down one paragraph	CTRL+

To the beginning of a line	HOME

To the end of a line	END

To the next frame	TAB

To the previous frame	SHIFT+TAB

To the first design	CTRL+PGUP

To the previous design	PGUP

To the next design	PGDN

To the last design	CTRL+PGDN


Design Editor Text Selection Keys

To Select	Press

Previous character	SHIFT+

Previous word	SHIFT+CTRL+

Next character	SHIFT+

Next word	SHIFT+CTRL+

Previous line	SHIFT+

Previous paragraph	SHIFT+CTRL+

Next line	SHIFT+

Next paragraph	SHIFT+CTRL+

To the beginning of a line	SHIFT+HOME

To the end of a line	SHIFT+END

Entire frame	CTRL+A


Design Editor Formatting Keys

To Format	Press

Bold	CTRL+B

Italic	CTRL+I

Underline	CTRL+U

Paragraph	CTRL+M

Face name	CTRL+SHIFT+F

Point size	CTRL+SHIFT+P

Left justify	CTRL+SHIFT+L

Right justify	CTRL+SHIFT+R

Center	CTRL+SHIFT+E

Flush justify	CTRL+SHIFT+J

Word underline	CTRL+SHIFT+W

Single line spacing	CTRL+1

One and a half line spacing	CTRL+2

Double line spacing	CTRL+3


Design Editor Editing Keys

To Delete	Press

Next character or selection	DEL

Selected object	DEL

Previous character or selection	BACKSPACE

Selected object	BACKSPACE

Selection and copy to clipboard	SHIFT+DELETE or CTRL+X

Object and copy to clipboard	SHIFT+DELETE or CTRL+X

To Insert	Press

Line break	SHIFT+ENTER

Paragraph break	ENTER

Text from clipboard	SHIFT+INS or CTRL+V

To Copy	Press

Selection to clipboard	CTRL+INS or CTRL+C

Object to clipboard	CTRL+INS or CTRL+C

To	Press

Undo / Redo	ALT+BACKSPACE or CTRL+Z

Select all text in a frame	CTRL+A

Select all objects on a page	CTRL+A


Design Editor View Keys

To	Press

View next document	CTRL+F6

View previous document	CTRL+SHIFT+F6

Maximize application window	ALT+F10

Maximize document window	CTRL+F10

Minimize application window	ALT+F9

Minimize document window	CTRL+F9

Restore application window	ALT+F5

Restore document window	CTRL+F5


Design Editor Menu Shortcut Keys

Menu	Command	Shortcut Key
File	New	CTRL+N
	Open	CTRL+O
	Save	CTRL+S
	Close	CTRL+W or CTRL+F4
	Print	CTRL+P
	Exit	ALT+F4
Edit	Undo/Redo	ALT+BACKSPACE or CTRL+Z
	Cut	SHIFT+DEL or CTRL+X
	Copy	CTRL+INS or CTRL+C
	Paste	SHIFT+INS or CTRL+V
	Select All	CTRL+A
	Search	CTRL+F
	Replace	CTRL+H
	Find/Replace Next	F3
View	Zoom In	CTRL+PLUS (On numeric keypad)
	Zoom Out	CTRL+MINUS (On numeric keypad)
	Inside / Outside	CTRL+T (Toggle) (On two sided designs only)
Design	First Design	CTRL+PGUP
	Previous Design	PGUP
	Next Design	PGDN
	Last Design	CTRL+PGDN
Utilities	Spell Check	F7
Help	Index	F1


Database Keyboard

Movement Keys

Text Selection Keys

Editing Keys

View Keys

Data Entry Keys

Menu Shortcut Keys


Database Movement Keys

To Move	Press

Left one character

Left one word	CTRL+

Right one character

Right one word	CTRL+

Up one line

Down one line

To the beginning of a line	HOME

To the end of a line	END

To the next field	TAB

To the previous field	SHIFT+TAB

To the first record	CTRL+PGUP

To the previous record	PGUP

To the next record	PGDN

To the last record	CTRL+PGDN


Database Text Selection Keys

To Select	Press

Previous character	SHIFT+

Previous word	SHIFT+CTRL+

Next character	SHIFT+

Next word	SHIFT+CTRL+

Previous line	SHIFT+

Next line	SHIFT+

To the beginning of a line	SHIFT+HOME

To the end of a line	SHIFT+END


Database Editing Keys

To Delete	Press

Next character or selection	DEL

Selected object	DEL

Previous character or selection	BACKSPACE

Selection and copy to clipboard	SHIFT+DELETE or CTRL+X

To Insert	Press

Text from clipboard	SHIFT+INS or CTRL+V

To Copy	Press

Selection to clipboard	CTRL+INS or CTRL+C

To	Press

Undo / Redo	ALT+BACKSPACE or CTRL+Z


Database View Keys

To	Press

View next document	CTRL+F6

View previous document	CTRL+SHIFT+F6

Maximize application window	ALT+F10

Maximize document window	CTRL+F10

Minimize application window	ALT+F9

Minimize document window	CTRL+F9

Restore application window	ALT+F5

Restore document window	CTRL+F5


Database Data Entry Keys

To	Press

Move to the next field	TAB

Move to the previous field	SHIFT+TAB

Move to the first record	CTRL+PGUP

Move to the previous record	PGUP

Move to the next record	PGDN

Move to the last record	CTRL+PGDN

Create a new record	F2

Search for a record	CTRL+F

Repeat a previous search	F3


Database Menu Shortcut Keys

Menu	Command	Shortcut Key
File	New	CTRL+N
	Open	CTRL+O
	Close	CTRL+W or CTRL+F4
	Print	CTRL+P
	Exit	ALT+F4
Edit	Undo/Redo	ALT+BACKSPACE or CTRL+Z
	Cut	SHIFT+DEL or CTRL+X
	Copy	CTRL+INS or CTRL+C
	Paste	SHIFT+INS or CTRL+V
	Find Record	CTRL+F
	Find Next Record	F3
Database	New Record	F2
	First Record	CTRL+PGUP
	Previous Record	PGUP
	Next Record	PGDN
	Last Record	CTRL+PGDN
Help	Index	F1


Glossary

Document	This is used to refer to either a Database or a SmartDesign.

Database	A database is a type of document with one or more records containing one or more fields.  This

Record	This is an entry in a database.  For Instance, in an Address Book Database you could have a record for your Mother, which would have fields with her Name, Address, Phone Number, etc.

Field	This is a part of a database that is in every record.  For Instance, in an Address Book Database you could have a field "Name", which would contain the name of the person for each record.

SmartDesign	A SmartDesign is a DesignExpress design creation tool.  The SmartDesign is responsible for things as simple as the placement and layout of designs on a page, to the more complicated aspects of variations of stocks, layouts, accents, fonts, and point sizes.  SmartDesign is also used to describe the documents that the Design Editor creates.  A SmartDesign can contain multiple designs.

Variation	A variation is a similiar design with different formatting properties.  Current variations are Stocks, Layouts, Accents, Fonts, and Point Sizes.

Stock	A variation created specifically for a different paper type.  All stocks are the same type, (ie. the position and size of designs is the same), but the appearance of the paper is slightly different (different color, or different design on the paper).

Layout	A variation that describes things such as what items are on the design, where the items are on a design, and the overall look of the design.

Accent	A slight variation based on the layout.  Accents typically are lines, rectangles and other static objects that highlight certain aspects of the layout.

Font	A variation based upon the layout and accent that controls what typefaces are to be used in the items in a design.

Point Size	A variation based upon the layout, accent and font that controls what point size the typefaces are to use in the items in a design.

Item	This is a part of a design, There are three item types: Text Frame, Text Effects, and Pictures.  Items are defined by the SmartDesign, and can not be renamed or reassigned.  In a label SmartDesign there is often an item "Name", which is where you would put your Name.

Design	This is what the Design Editor helps you create.   A design can be a label, brochure, envelope, etc.  You may have multiple designs in a SmartDesign Job.  An item can only appear once in a design.


DesignExpress Information
Created and Developed

by

MicroVision Development, Inc.

2185 Faraday Avenue, Suite 140

Carlsbad, CA 92008

http://www.mvd.com

The creators of the Award Winning Word Processor,

WordExpress


DesignExpress Team
The DesignExpress Team

Developers

Robert Bushner

John Gaby

Jim Mayall

Designer

Ayaz Usman

Special Thanks

Sean Cavanaugh

Deanna Bebb

All Beta Testers


Check this option if you want DesignExpress to open the SmartDesign, template or database in a new window.


Check this option if you wish to use the first record of the database for the field names.


Check this option if you no longer wish to use a merge file in this SmartDesign.


This is a preview window of the currently selected picture.


Check this option to copy the picture into the DSN/DSU file instead of linking to it.


Check this option to automatically preview a file when it is selected.


Click on this button to preview the currently selected picture.


Click on this button to set up a merged picture.


Custom Template Error - Total Height

Total height (# Parts time Page Height) must not exceed page size.

A label sheet may not exceed 16 inches.  You have specified that either the page is longer than 16 inches, or the total height of all the parts is greater than 16 inches.


Custom Template Error - Design(s) off of the Page

Designs in block exceeds the page bounds.

This error condition signals that the total height of all labels, gutter and margins exceeds the height of the paper. This should also be visible in the sample on the page. Check your specifications and try again.


Custom Template Error - Overlapping Designs (different blocks)

Design in block 1 overlaps design in block 2.

This error condition lets you know that the labels defined in one label block will overlap those in another label block, causing printing errors and wasted labels.


Custom Template Error - Overlapping Designs

Designs in block 1 overlap each other.

This error condition lets you know that the labels overlap each other within the same block. This can only occur when one of the gutter settings is a negative number.


Custom Template Warning - Overlapping Bleed in Design(s)

Bleed in block 1 causes an overlaps in another design.

This warning condition alerts you to the fact that you have specified a bleed amount which overlaps into other designs in the same label block. This may be intended, but you are alerted since this can cause undesirable printing into neighboring labels.


Custom Template Warning - Overlapping Bleed in Design(s) (different blocks)

Bleed in block 1 overlaps design in block 2.

This warning condition alerts you to the fact that you have specified a bleed amount which overlaps into other designs in a different label block. This may be intended, but you are alerted since this can cause undesirable printing into neighboring labels.


Custom Template Warning - Overall Size is smaller

Overall size (bleed+size) in block 1 is smaller....

This warning condition alerts you that the label size is now smaller than the previous template. If this is what you intended, some objects may be partially or completely positioned outside of the label bounds.


Custom Template Warning - Sides Reduced

The number of sides has been reduced...

This warns you that you have changed the number of printable sides from 2 to 1. If this is what you intended, you will lose any SmartDesign layouts and/or objects you have created on side 2.


Custom Template Warning - SmartDesigns Differ Substantially

"Designs in block(s) differ substantially from...

This warns you that you have changed the design(s) for the blocks by a larger amount. If this is what you intended, some of your design(s) may not appear as they were originally intended to.