MainLobby Version 2.0 - A Sneak Peek

[lawdawg]

Hey guys, while not as invovled or cool as any of the stuff Dan is doing, I wanted to let you know that I created my first batch of buttons for use with mainlobby. They create a four way menu control system. You can download them at the Cinemar forum.

[paul_mullen]

Question for anyone else trying out the TVLobby beta. It worked great the first time I ran it, but now any time I hit update the 'cmd' window opens and starts it's thing and then I just get scrolling errors of "trying to use uninitialized variables" or something like that. I tried deleting the .xml file and the tv_grab_na file and re-configureing xmltv. But still getting the same errors. I also tried changing the provider in the configuration of xmltv. Just wanted to see if anyone else is seeing anything like this.

Thanks,
Paul

[smoothtlk]

Paul, got the same thing
"Use of uninitialized value in numeric ge <>=> at /Perl/App/grab/na/tv_grab_na line 1931"
Also, same mesage "...."in multiplication <*> at.... in line 1935"
etc.

FYI - when I ran the configure routine, I picked the wrong channel source. I picked DirecTV and should have picked "my town" DirecTV. I found I had to delete the tv_grab_na to be able to run the configure tool again to select the proper stations.

Also - I would amend the directions on Setup #2 to say place buttons you would like is optional at this time.

Also - Kraven's advise about the filename 8.3 seems correct. I assume that means use short file names without spaces? I changed to this and now it seems to be storing my channel downloads.

Also - It seems you have to create the directorys manually in Explorer before entering them in TVLobby setup. this should be advised as step 3.5

Also - it would be good to advise in step 12.5 that downloading the guide can take quite some time.

Download finally finished and now I see what TVLobby is all about. Looks great! Only prob now I think is the font issue documented a few threads ago. Funny thing is that I think I have Mario's latest MainLobby - shouldn't I have the fonts that should show on the program guide?

Will there be a way to change the buttons like in MainLobby (like channel select)? It would be great to maintain the same button look as rest of ML suite.

This will be neat when debugged. Where do I send the check?

[dreicher]

Paul,

I was having the same problem this morning. It's a communication error between XMLTV (the grabber) and Zap2It (the listing database). It's only happened to me once before (in 3 months). Of course, it happens the day after I release it. :(

It should be fixed shortly.

Dan

[paul_mullen]

Thanks Dan.

I had a feeling it was something to do with the listings. Because it worked like a champ the first time I used it. Pulled the listings and displayed them correctly.

Another question that I've looked for an answer to, but maybe someone could provide some insight. Is anyone out there aware of a way to make a MyHD card work with this. I now use the TitanTV guide to schedule recordings to it and I believe it uses the same .tvpi files to do this. I'm just not sure how it recognizes when one of these gets downloaded. Just curious if anyone knows if this could work.

Thanks again,
Paul

[dreicher]

Paul,

MyHD doesn't work yet, because the listings don't map correctly. I have no way of getting the OTA HD listings at present, but I'm looking into ways to get this.

The files are the same. If you're running TVLobby on the same computer - select Execute in the setup and the listing file will open after it's created. Just like downloading it from TitanTV. Hope this helps.

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Dan,
I am running Mario's latest ML.
TVLobby doesn't display the show names on the buttons. Clicking on the button shows the title and detail of the program.
In a prior message, you indicated that it was due to the older version of ML that was being used - since I have the latest - what now?
Thanx
David

[dreicher]

David,

Did that just start happening or has it been that way since first install?

Dan

[dreicher]

Also, would you be willing to send me your .xml file.

dreicher@ultimatewireless.com

Thanks,
Dan

[smoothtlk]

I just installed from fresh.
Only issues on install are documented on prior message.
1) installed files in directories as per directions
2) picked wrong DirecTV choice - deleted tv_grab_na file and reconfigured
3) Used long file paths - changed to short
4) created directories before configuring TVLobby
5) downloaded guide
6) launched
7) no names on programs

I will email you the xml for your review.

thanx for looking into it.
David

[somanyquestions]

I do as the instructions, instruct, and I get no listings. My settings are not being saved. When I put the paths, and file names in, and hit save, they are no longer there when I reneter to reload.

It is late. I shouldn't be trying to type....

[smoothtlk]

I think Kraven suggested ony 8.3 filename convention can be used. I did a quick google search on that and got more than I really wanted to know, so, I assume it means short file names for the path. I originally tried c:\Program Files\MainLobby\TVLobby\TVListings but it didn't work and my setting wouldn't save.

I truncated it to c:\Lobby\TVListings and everything saved and downloaded.

Hopefully this will be changed in the near future. I hate stuff in the root directory.

Try it.

[KRavEN]

smoothtlk,

You can use your original path by by using the DOS truncated directory names like so:

c:\progra~1\mainlo~1\tvlobby\tvlist~1\

[smoothtlk]

thanx for clarifying.

so, I guess that means that c:\Program Files\ and c:\Program Stuff\ can't live together with the DOS c:\progra~1 (not that I have that combination, just interested in learning a bit more)? Or is "Stuff" progra~2? (alpha sequence?)

Either way, I will try the new path when I move to my "production" server.

David

[vbich]

Originally posted by smoothtlk
thanx for clarifying.

so, I guess that means that c:\Program Files\ and c:\Program Stuff\ can't live together with the DOS c:\progra~1 (not that I have that combination, just interested in learning a bit more)? Or is "Stuff" progra~2? (alpha sequence?)

Either way, I will try the new path when I move to my "production" server.

David
Short names are generated when a file/directory is created. Since "Program Files" is created first (during the installation) it becomes progra~1. When you create "Program AAA" it becomes progra~2. With regards to "Program Files" you can be sure it is progra~1, for the stuff you created, it all depends on the sequence...

[STINGGRAY]

I JUST OT MAIN LOBBY TODAY IT WORKS GREAT BUT....... WHEN I TRY TO GIVE A BUTTON A LINK TO MAIN LOBBY OR WEB ADDRESS IT WORKS AT FIRST BUT WHEN I SAVE THE SKIN CLOSE ML THEN OPEN THAT SKIN THE LINK IS NOT THERE. CAN ANY HELP ME. THANKS

CRAIG

[vbich]

Mario,

Is it possible to add any window caption in the next release of ML? I am trying to build a girder support for multiple applications and I cannon detect when mainlobby goes foreground on taskswitch/taskcreate because it does not have any caption. It can be checked easily by having ML running and pressing Alt-TAB to switch between applications. When ML is selected nothing is displayed below the icons - no caption.

Thanks.

[midi-guy]

Vadim,
MS Spy++ and Girder both show "Mainlobby" for me.

Dan,
xmltv.exe does not seem to be working for me.
First, seemingly,it takes about 2 hours to get one days schedule. (Dish Network, NY.)
Then it does not show it the new MLS I created.
Am I doing something wrong here? .
I assume that xmltv creates a file somewhere on the disk if the schedule is not going into tv_grab_na, right?.
I can't find any newly created files.
I too get the same "Use of uninitialized value in multiplication....line 1935" etc , errors.
And yes, I am using short filename paths.

Thanks.
Andrew.

[dreicher]

Andrew,

XMLTV is not working properly right now. Most likely, Zap2It (where the listings are scraped from) changed something where XMLTV has to be updated. These usually happen pretty quickly and should solve most of the problems happening right now.

2 hours for one day's schedule seems very long. I'm running a cable modem and I can generally get 2 days in 2-3 minutes. If you're on a dialup, it may be significantly longer - but not 2 hours.

Dan

[vbich]

Originally posted by midi-guy
Vadim,
MS Spy++ and Girder both show "Mainlobby" for me.


Andrew, does it say Mainlobby when you Alt-TAB to it?
I am using GetCaption targeting foregroud window. In case of ML it returns empty string :(

[midi-guy]

Vadim,
No it does not say Main Lobby when using ALT-Tab.
However, in Girder, when I use the "Drag me to target window" button, it comes back with "Mainlobby".
Maybe I don't understand what you're trying to do.

Andrew.

[midi-guy]

Vadim,

The attachment shows what I see.

Andrew

[midi-guy]

Dan,

So that I understand, xmltv.exe generates "tv_grab_na" and populates it with the schedule, right?.

I ran xmltv again, this time setup to look at the local OTA (NY/NJ) only.
It put in all of the right channels.
This time it took 35 minutes, but with the same results.
I noticed that it seemed to be generating the same error on every listing "entry".

Also, I am using a cable modem. However, I don't think the issue is a connectivity issue. It seems to me that it might be some kind of xml schema issue.

Thanks,
Andrew.

[vbich]

Originally posted by midi-guy
Vadim,
No it does not say Main Lobby when using ALT-Tab.
However, in Girder, when I use the "Drag me to target window" button, it comes back with "Mainlobby".
Maybe I don't understand what you're trying to do.

Andrew.

I am not trying to target ML, I need to detect ML, kind of reverse operation. I have a girder group that is triggered by TaskSwitch event. It then tries to read caption of the foreground window and enable group for that application/disabling groups for other applications. It worked well until I tried it with ML. When ML is the foreground window, getcaption (target - foreground window) returns empty string. This is similar to having focus on taskbar - e.g. there is no window with focus.

The idea is to have different remote button to key mappings for different applications

I guess I could try to check IsForeground while trying to target ML directly. It will have to be merged with my code somehow, it will probably work, it is just inconsistent.

[dreicher]

Originally posted by midi-guy
Dan,

So that I understand, xmltv.exe generates "tv_grab_na" and populates it with the schedule, right?.

I ran xmltv again, this time setup to look at the local OTA (NY/NJ) only.
It put in all of the right channels.
This time it took 35 minutes, but with the same results.
I noticed that it seemed to be generating the same error on every listing "entry".

Also, I am using a cable modem. However, I don't think the issue is a connectivity issue. It seems to me that it might be some kind of xml schema issue.

Thanks,
Andrew.

Andrew,

XMLTV.exe populates whatever file you have designated (ie, tv_na.xml) with the listings. tv_grab_na is the configuration file it uses (channels/provider information to grab). The errors that are happening with xmltv.exe are probably what are causing it to take so long. I am continuously checking for an update to xmltv.exe and as soon as one is available - I will post it to this forum. Once the fix is posted, I'm getting about 50-70 channels worth of daily listings in about one minute - so if you've got 120 channels and 2 days - it might take 4 minutes.

Dan

[SnoWolf]

Looking forward to trying this.
Are the buttons programable? IE Could one of them be changed to read "Play Games" as this is also a small part of my HTPC.
Quake 3 is awsome on4x8 screen?

[smoothtlk]

Hi SnoWolf,
Download the demo version. You will find that the buttons (which look great and there is a great variety) are fully programmable. You can launch another ML page, Launch a browser, execute a file, execute a Girder event, execute a SLinke command (including X10 home automation commands), interact with HomeSeer (a great Home automation software), play a wav file, etc.

The programmability and the great looks are really what I see is the core of MainLobby, at least so far.
Try it, you'll like it.
David

[STINGGRAY]

I'M HAVING A PROBLEN WITH ML. WHEN I SAVE A FILE THAT HAS A BUTTON WITH A WEB ADDRESS, CLOSE IT THEN OPEN IT AGAIN THE ADDRESS IS GONE. I ALSO ADD NEW BUTTONS AND AT THE SAME TIME ADD A WEB ADDRESS TO ANOTHER BUTTON AND AFTER SAVING IT AS IS. THEN REOPENING THE NEWLY SAVED FILE THE NEW BUTTONS ARE THERE BUT NOT THE WEB ADDRESS. ???????? ANY ONE KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. THANKS

CRAIG

[midi-guy]

Craig,

First, stop shouting at us.
We haven't done anything wrong.:D
Turn off your CAPS LOCK key. Net etiquette says you type in all caps when you are angry at someone or something.
Should try to avoid doing that.

Can you be more specific with your problem?
Which field in the MLS are you putting the URL into?

Are you able to save other entries- i.e. an executable command or SWF invocation?

Andrew.

[STINGGRAY]

Hi Andrew

OK I'll quite down. I put it in the web (html) field. I put something very simple like msn.com. And it works until I save it. I also have a problem when I try to put in a link to a mls. Thanks

Craig

[Jay Wilson]

Craig, try hitting "OK" before you save. Seems like I had an issue with the same thing and that seemed to take care of it. Maybe I'm dreaming as I really haven't done more than play around...still waiting for DVDLobby before I jump in whole hog! I haven't done anything with web pages,but I couldn't get scenes to load unless I hit OK before I hit save.

[STINGGRAY]

I hit apply then OK then save as is. What about the file I save it in? The file I save it in is C:\Program Files\mainlobby2 . Or ML may need a patch? I just downloaded it Sunday night. Any updates lately? I know it's not hard to save a file but:confused: Thanks

Craig

[midi-guy]

Craig,

I too found it a little confusing at first.
Try making the changes and then click on the "SAVE" button.
(not the"AS" button. that's a saveas function, i.e. saving "AA.mls" to "BB.mls")
BTW, if you don't save your changes, and you open another MLS, you will lose the changes made to the first file.
Mainlobby does not warn you of the fact that you will be loosing those changes.

Andrew.

[mcascio]

Originally posted by vbich
Mario,

Is it possible to add any window caption in the next release of ML? I am trying to build a girder support for multiple applications and I cannon detect when mainlobby goes foreground on taskswitch/taskcreate because it does not have any caption. It can be checked easily by having ML running and pressing Alt-TAB to switch between applications. When ML is selected nothing is displayed below the icons - no caption.

Thanks.

Hey Vadim,

At first glance, it looks like by adding the Window Caption I give up the kiosk look. I'm looking into seeing if I can dynamically generate a caption for you without putting MainLobby into a standard Window.

[smoothtlk]

Stingray, try to save to the default directory c:\Program Files\Mainlobby all your .mls files. Not saying that you can't save in a different directory using Save As, but clicking Save will save only to the default, if I remember Mario's directions in the manual.

What I do is pull up a .mls that looks closest to what I want, click Save As and rename it but keeping in the default directory. Then I edit the scene or button (like adding a web address as a button action), hit OK and then Save. I then click on Launch to try it out. I usually hit Save again before exiting the screen to go to another. Once you click on another .mls, you lose what you didn't save in the prior .mls.

One more thought - are you putting http://www.webpage.com as the URL or just www.webpage.com? I use the whole thing. Haven't tried without the http:// but maybe this is an issue?

David

[STINGGRAY]

I got it:D . I was doing save as is. I guess the first time I did just save I missed the OK. From then on I used as is. I want to say Thanks to all for the help. I'll be glad to offer it any time I can. So thanks again

Craig

[audio]

Dan,

tvLobby looks great!
I'm having the same issue as a few other posters - I can't see the
program titles on the listing buttons. I also don't see the network logos, which I'm not sure if they're supposed to be displayed or not. Given the icon URL in the xml data I don't know if you intend to display them or not. Everything else is working fine. I'm running a trial version of ML 2.18.

Some relevant snippets from my listings.xml file
in case they may be of help.


<channel id="11 WTVD">
<display-name>Channel 11 WTVD</display-name>
<icon src="http://tvlistings2.zap2it.com/tms_network_logos/abc_30.jpg" />
</channel>

<programme start="20030210230000 -0600" stop="20030210000000 -0600" channel="11 WTVD">
<title>Eyewitness News at 11</title>
<category>News</category>
<audio>
<stereo>stereo</stereo>
</audio>
<subtitles type="teletext" />
</programme>

[dreicher]

First of all, I'm sorry for some of the issues users have been experiencing. For starters, an XMLTV update (xmltv.exe) is available

http://prdownloads.sourceforge.net/xmltv/xmltv-0.5.7-win32.zip?download

Download and extract xmltv.exe to your MainLobby directory. That will clear up the errors when updating the listing file.

As for text not showing up: there are a few variables involved.

1) Make sure you are running the most current release of MainLobby (2.18, I believe).
2) Make sure you have the most recent Libraries (where the actual font is stored).
3) I don't know about the trial version; however, having the most current library should fix that.

If you still get no love on the text being displayed...please e-mail a 1 day listing file and I will try and recreate the problem.

dreicher@ultimatewireless.com

As for the icons, I haven't implemented those yet. To be honest I never had the complete URL to know where they were actually stored. For some reason, you're listing file has them - mine only shows a relative URL - so I should be able to do something with those in a future release. Thanks.

Timing...with the newest xmltv.exe - it took me about 1 1/2 minutes to download 2 days worth of information (50 channels). So, that's about 1 day-channel per second. That's on a cable modem. For me that is acceptable. You may want to consider setting a scheduled event on your machine to update during the middle of the night on a schedule. Loading the listings file does take a bit of time (depending on the machine, and changing times does, too). I put a lot of time to make both routines as fast as humanly possible and dumped the listings into a MainLobby root variable, so if you leave the scene and come back - it doesn't necessitate a complete reload.

Cheers!

Dan

BTW: I'm looking for ~10 beta testers for a private beta of a new MainLobby plug-in I'm working on. Please e-mail me at dreicher@ultimatewireless.com if you're interested. Thanks.

[s.morris]

Hi Mario

Is there any thing else i should do when i use the shut down windows main lobby cmd in the button properties.
i selected this this command hoping when the button is pressed the windows would shut down but it don't
any ideas

steve

[mcascio]

Steve,

There are no variables need for the shutdown ML command.

What OS are you using?

[s.morris]

Hi Mario,

I don't wan't to shut down Mainlobby, what i want to do is

press a key in main lobby scene that will shut down windows,
you have put a command in the button properties to shut down windows its in the drop down menu,along with show and hide fx layers etc.
when i select the option nothing seem to happen,
Any ideas

steve

[mcascio]

Hi Steve,

I may have confused you with my terminology, but I do understand what you are trying to do. I'm wondering if it may be an Operating System issue. Can you let me know what Operating System you are running?

Thanks.

[s.morris]

Hi Mario,

sorry i am running win 98 se on the pentablet

steve

[STINGGRAY]

I just got my PG . I have excellent radio connection but i can't pull up the web. Any pointers? Once I get that working, can I use the new G wireless card (54 Mbps)? Thanks

Craig

[smoothtlk]

Hi Dan,
Downloaded latest .exe and copied to c:\Program Files\Mainlobby directory. When I launch ML, select Tools and then Update, the update box appears and says "please wait" and then disapeers. No updates to the xml file. The download was working with the prior version but had the multiplication errors.

Regarding the fonts, I am using 2.18. What file and file date should be in the library to double check that item? I still can't view program names.

Thanx

ps.. any teasers on your next project?

[dreicher]

smoothtlk,

Regarding the fonts, I've got LibraryMainLobby.swf in the /library directory with a date of 1/10/02.

Try, if you could, getting into a command prompt from the directory you put xmltv.exe and typing in:

xmltv tv_grab_na --days 2 >test.xml

and let me know if you get a test.xml with 2 days of listings in that directory. Sorry about the hassles.

Dan

BTW: The project I'm working on right now...all I can say is you're gonna love it! :)

[Wysocki]

Mario:
Bringing up the almost-dead horse of screensavers<g>, both of the screensavers on my system do the same thing, snowfall on the left 2/3 of the screen. They're 5k and 136k respectively so I don't know why they look the same. Didn't you do some work on making them scale to a 1024x768 screen recently? Also, any news on the screen "dimmer" function?

[Wysocki]

I do as the instructions, instruct, and I get no listings. My settings are not being saved. When I put the paths, and file names in, and hit save, they are no longer there when I reneter to reload.
Same thing happened to me with TV Lobby setup. Problem was that I had ML in LAUNCH mode instead of EDIT mode. (Bugged me for a couple hours though!)

[mcascio]

Originally posted by Wysocki
Mario:
Bringing up the almost-dead horse of screensavers<g>, both of the screensavers on my system do the same thing, snowfall on the left 2/3 of the screen. They're 5k and 136k respectively so I don't know why they look the same. Didn't you do some work on making them scale to a 1024x768 screen recently? Also, any news on the screen "dimmer" function?

Terry,

I believe I just fixed the one screensaver, and it is available for download from:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/dvdlobby.downloads.html

It's the four spotlights in 1024x768.

This is the only one that should work as far as I know. Can you verify?

[Wysocki]

Mario:
Just downloaded the 1024 screensaver, it works! Thanks!

Dreicher:
With TV Lobby, I downloaded all the latest files (I think you meant 1/10/03 as the date for the LibraryMainLobby.swf file, which is what I have) and, even though I get all the errors generated during the xml creation (about 5 minutes for Dish LA) it looks like the resulting xml file is ok. However, when I bring up the mls scene (about 10 seconds to load), I get the blue program bars loaded without descriptions (the channels description is ok) and then a grey progress bar above the listings gets to about 45% across and then ML locks up hard (Not Responding). Any ideas?

EDIT: Oops, I just noticed that when I unzipped the xmltv.exe it kept the path from the zip file and DIDN'T replace my old one afterall. Now the xml file is being created WITHOUT any errors! My fault<g>... I may be back with further edits...

EDIT2: Ok, I think I'm on the right track here. I went into the tv_grab_na file and put "#" signs on all but a dozen channels. I ran Update and Reload and now I have text with no lockups! I'll play around with it more to see what the pattern is but it looks like too many channels make it gag?

[smoothtlk]

Dan,
My file was the correct date.
I took your suggestion and ran the xml update from the CMD prompt and everything looked ok. (16,690 448 channels, 2361 seconds, 7/ sec, 2.65 / www screen were the stats)
Loaded ML and realized I had to do the update from the tool button. Did the update (took a long time - maybe 30 - 45 minutes? Detroit DirecTV)
Reloaded and walllaaa- had most of the program names.

What's funny is when a program guide is loading, (about 4 seconds?) Some of the show names disapeer, never to reload. When you click on the blank spots - the program and description show at the top of the screen. So, the info exists in the XML.

Another observation - programs with channels above 403 ish don't show at all. Looking at the XML - they exist.

Also - "tomorrows" shows don't show (nothing - not just the text), even though they are confirmed to exist in the XML.

But - we are going forward with progress!

Feature request - How bout a keypad to enter a channel number to jump to it?

Question- I assume when you click on the show that you can then click on Watch - that your VCR / Tivo will then go to that channel? How does one program this function - some Girder function? any examples of Girder files that do this? I use Tivo. I have a similar TV guide in Homeseer that also can change the channel via IR. Can you give a sentence or two on "Execute" and what that means?

What does the TV mode do? ie: Analog / digital / cable

Thanx
David

[Wysocki]

Mario:

Resize a button to 120%.
Try a replace operation from the library box.
It adds a button instead.

[mcascio]

Terry,

You'll need to press the replace button on the Library panel, then select the button on the stage you want to replace, then select the button in the Library you are replacing it with.

I think I set it to automatically add if the user doesn't select replace.

[s.morris]

Hi Steve,

I may have confused you with my terminology, but I do understand what you are trying to do. I'm wondering if it may be an Operating System issue. Can you let me know what Operating System you are running?
,


Hi Mario,

I don't wan't to shut down Mainlobby, what i want to do is

press a key in main lobby scene that will shut down windows,
you have put a command in the button properties to shut down windows its in the drop down menu,along with show and hide fx layers etc.
when i select the option nothing seem to happen,
Any ideas

steve



Hi Mario

i am running win 98se on my pen tablet,

any ideas

steve:confused:

[s.morris]

Hi Mario,

also tried this on my laptop which is running windows XP, and get the same results,
nothing seem to happen

steve

[mcascio]

Originally posted by vbich
Mario,

Is it possible to add any window caption in the next release of ML? I am trying to build a girder support for multiple applications and I cannon detect when mainlobby goes foreground on taskswitch/taskcreate because it does not have any caption. It can be checked easily by having ML running and pressing Alt-TAB to switch between applications. When ML is selected nothing is displayed below the icons - no caption.

Thanks.

Vadim,
By adding a window caption, it looks like I would need to add a border around MainLobby which wouldn't be ideal. I can however pass the Window Handle to the clipboard if you think this will be helpful.
What someone will need to find out is if Girder could then read the handle from the Clipboard. The handle changes with each instance MainLobby gets loaded.

Can you or someone else let me know if the above is possible? If so, I'll add that feature into MainLobby for you.

[mcascio]

Originally posted by s.morris
Hi Mario,

also tried this on my laptop which is running windows XP, and get the same results,
nothing seem to happen

steve

Can anyone else verify whether this shutdown command is working from the ML Command line?

Another option is to use a batch file to shut down windows. More information is available from the MainLobby tips and tricks page:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/mainlobbytips.html

[mcascio]

BTW Vadim,

I'm seeing mainlobby's name in Girder when I try to setFocus to a Target.

Are you sure it's not in your list? You may try it again and hit refresh. I know someone else had mentioned they could see mainlobby in the list.

[mcascio]

Just wanted to wish everyone a happy Valentines Day.

I've posted a free valentine's themed background skin at:
http://www.caseserve.com/cinemar/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=201&sid=bbc401e1f6f9ef524201b6d428641f49#201

[Wysocki]

Is this forum alive? No messages since the 13th? Just checking to see if everyone moved to the Cinemar forum.

[mcascio]

Hi Terry,

Yes - the forum is still alive here. For the future growth of the Lobby suite, it's important to keep the threads going.

Here's a screenshot of the latest RemoteFX layer I've created.

It starts out with the metallic doors closed and has an ENTER button also assigned to a keyboard press. When the user presses the button, the doors slide open revealling the buttons beneath setup by the user.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot19.jpg

Also, the alignment and distribution features are currently being worked into MainLobby. You can select multiple buttons and align them to each other or to the Stage. You'll also be able to select any number of buttons and have them evenly space themself out. Very cool feature.

[fflip]

Mario,
that looks awesome, are you going to make it available to us the users? i still havn't had time to play with flash but i do know that well i am graphically impaired as far as computers goes, i can draw a pretty mean stick man :)

keep up the good work.

Flip

[vbich]

Originally posted by mcascio
BTW Vadim,

I'm seeing mainlobby's name in Girder when I try to setFocus to a Target.

Are you sure it's not in your list? You may try it again and hit refresh. I know someone else had mentioned they could see mainlobby in the list.

I am seeing ML when I am trying to target it, the problem is that I am getting nothing when I am trying to detect it using GetCaption. I am trying to make sure I send keystrokes to ML only when ML is a foreground window (which is the way it works with regular keyboard - input goes to focused foreground window). And I have to have different mapping between remote and keystrokes for different apps, that's why I need to know what is running now in the foreground. So far I am successfully detecting all the apps I need but MainLobby by reading caption of a foreground window. If girder would give me application name, something like GetExecutableName, I would use it. But the only way to see what is going on in Girder is to use GetCaption.

With regards to window border - I have almost no experience with Flash, so I do not know how hard is it, but other programs I have run full-screen with no problem, no visible border and still normal (detectable) windows. I can detect ZoomPlayer in full screen mode with no problem for example. I have a sample GML of what I am trying to acheive here http://www.bich.ws/htpc/soft/sample_application_group_activation/

Thanks!

[Boxster_T]

Any news on MusicLobby?

Tom

[dreicher]

Tom,

I haven't done anything further on it in a couple of weeks; however, it is ready to go. I've been quite busy with TVLobby, CasinoLobby and a new one I'm working on. The only hitch is a new version of MainLobby is necessary to run MusicLobby. I will distribute it when Mario releases the next ML update. We'll tweak it from there.

Dan

[Steve_T]

Mario,

Have you guys got a 856x480 rez for us Panny plasma owners?

Steve.

[thomasamiller]

Question: I have all the CD's in my collection ripped to my hard drive. Can MainLobby automatically read the directory (movie) names in my d:\movies\ directory?

In other words if I have
d:\movies\Blade\
d:\movies\Matrix\
d:\movies\Gladiator\
d:\movies\LOTR\

Can MainLobyy or DVD Lobby traverse the directories and automatically display the names ? Or would I have to add each one manually?

[mcascio]

Originally posted by fflip
Mario,
that looks awesome, are you going to make it available to us the users? i still havn't had time to play with flash but i do know that well i am graphically impaired as far as computers goes, i can draw a pretty mean stick man :)

keep up the good work.

Flip

Flip,
I'm not exactly sure how I'm going to handle adding more graphics/fx layers etc at this point. There are already over 50+ background skins included in MainLobby. The file is getting pretty large esp. for downloads. The next version of MainLobby will come with quite a few new buttons that have animated effects never seen before in MainLobby. I wanted to put together entire themes complete with buttons, backgrounds, fx layers and the complete Scene. But I haven't had enough time to do all that.

Vadim,
I'll need to look further into this and see if there is another work-a-round.

Have you guys got a 856x480 rez for us Panny plasma owners?

Steve - what exactly do you need in 856x480?

Thomasamiller,
Currently, MainLobby doesn't do directory searches. This is a feature I plan to add down the road though.

[Al Sherwood]

Mario, I hope that the answers to these questions have not be posted too many times before:(

I am considering the purchase of MainLobby, what is the situation with regards to subsequent releases (upgrades), are they free to registered users or is there a cost associated?

The reason for the above question is prompted by your recent response to not only a particular question is this thread, but in general with the ongoing development of this software.

[COLOR=red]Quote "The next version of MainLobby will come with quite a few new buttons that have animated effects never seen before in MainLobby." Quote[/COLOR]

Is this in version 2.18 or are you referring to an upcoming version?

Thanks

[Steve_T]

"Steve - what exactly do you need in 856x480?"

Hopefully all the usual features.

[mcascio]

Hi Al,
There are always quite a few free upgrades to registered users. ML2 was the last charged upgrade and as you can see we are version 2.18. The street price of the software usually goes up too as new features are added which in turn add more power to the software bringing more value.

I don't anticipate an upgrade fee until ML 2.5 or 3.0.

There will be another free upgrade coming soon (beyond 2.18) with some new features, buttons and graphics.

Steve_T,
You can already set MainLobby to 856x480. Options | Display. It isn't a preset display option, but you can manually set it.

[mcascio]

I've posted this on the Cinemar forum but I think I'll get a bigger response here.

I'm commissioning an artist to create some illustrated style icons/buttons for a new Library for MainLobby.

I have some room for some more ideas if you'd like to submit them. I can't gurantee everyone's request will make it...depending on how "out there" they are.

They will be similar in style to the ones Adam has created.

Here is my current list:
-Remote Control
-Computer
-Light Bulb
-Table Lamp
-Stereo
-CD (Music)
-DVD (Movies)
-Ceiling Fan
-Movie Clapboard
-Movie Reels
-Theater Ticket Stub
-Alarm System
-Security Camera
-Internet
-Email
-Calendar
-Television
-Cable TV Box
-Photo Album
-Weather
-Radio
-Main Menu
-Gaming Console (PS2/XBOX)
-Plasma Display
-VHS Player
-Home (Actual Home graphic)
-Speaker
-Program Guide (TV GUIDE)
-Exterior of Movie Theater Entrance
-Popcorn
-PocketPC
-Thermostat
-Telephone
-Clock
-Satelite (ones that go on roof of home)
-Garage
-Coffee Pot

Please feel free to submit your ideas to this thread.

I've included a sample of the style of graphic.
http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/icon_remote.jpg

[mcascio]

Just looked at my number of posts and I'm over 1000 posts.

Where were the balloons when I hit 1000? I must have missed the celebration. :)

I guess I'll have to look more closely as 2000 posts come around. :D

[dlksf]

Mario,

Congratulations on hitting the 1000-post mark!

I'd like to request an icon/button with "tools" on it - for ex., maybe a wrench and a hammer crossed over each other in an "X" formation. Crestron has an icon like that, which is ideal to use as a link to a page with controls for fine-tuning aspects of the previous page. I hope that's not too confusing a description - I'd be happy to try and explain further if you'd like me to do so.

Thank you!

Deb K.

[dreicher]

Mario,

Congratulations on your 1000th post. 826 to go and I'm in! The new buttons look GREAT! Vector, I presume - and beautiful. Hope all is well.

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
I am trying to use ML on a Fujitsu XP Tablet. when ML goes full screen, I can't use the touchscreen keyboard to make text changes. I think in general I would rather use ML as "just another open window" instead of ML taking over the complete desktop. I am finding myself still going back and forth to IE, HS, ML, other apps in my normal course.

Is there already a way to circumvent full screen kiosk mode? It would also be nice to have a button on the UI that changes in and out of that mode.

2nd issue - I am using the tablet DCOM to my server that has the slinke on a comport. If the server is down, ML on the tablet dies (stops responding) during launch. Can you provide a time-out if slinke is not available?

Thanx David

[mcascio]

Originally posted by dlksf
Mario,

Congratulations on hitting the 1000-post mark!

I'd like to request an icon/button with "tools" on it - for ex., maybe a wrench and a hammer crossed over each other in an "X" formation. Crestron has an icon like that, which is ideal to use as a link to a page with controls for fine-tuning aspects of the previous page. I hope that's not too confusing a description - I'd be happy to try and explain further if you'd like me to do so.

Thank you!

Deb K.

Deb K.-
Love the Tools idea. I've added it. :)


Congratulations on your 1000th post. 826 to go and I'm in! The new buttons look GREAT! Vector, I presume - and beautiful. Hope all is well.

Actually the buttons are part vector. The coloring is being done in Photoshop which makes it much faster.

Unfortunately - I just returned back from the ER. Dislocated my shoulder for the third time playing volleyball. It was out for about 1 hour and 45 minutes. One thing I've learned, the longer it's out the longer the healing time. So this may slow down my production time slightly. I was about to pull Mel Gibson and throw my shoulder into the wall to put it back in the socket since the ER was taking so long. Oh well. I'll try to remain as productive as possible given the slight inconvenience.

Hi David,

Sorry I do remember reading your post but it got lost in the shuffle. I had tried to find a way to check break out of the Slinke connection and will have to do more research.

I'll also look into making more options for booting MainLobby in a variety of modes: Window vs Kiosk.

[mcascio]

Vadim,

I may have come up with a solution for you...need to do more testing.
Keep your fingers crossed. :)

[Jay Wilson]

Hey Mario, Sorry to hear about your shoulder!

My email is down so I have to post here, but guess what I just saw shipment verification on?

No really!!!

Honest!!!

It's coming from CA!!!

I'll forward it to you as soon as it gets here. Will you promise to get us DVD Lobby 2.0 after you get it :D

[visualbyte]

Hi just got Main Lobby and a quick question with regards to girder.

I am using girder with Redrat 2 now take changing channel on my dss box to get sky 1 i type 106 in to the number pad is it possible to throw multipule commands at girder from main lobby. Or do i have to set up multi commands in girder to change channel. ? which will be a pain in the a??

any help appriciatted..
cheers...

[mcascio]

Jay,
That's good news. That will certainly be a heavy motivator!

Visualbyte,
You may check and see if Girder allows multiple commands to be sent via ieventc.exe. Otherwise, I do have plans to add a macro builder which will make this possible among some very cool other stuff. :)

[PabloReiter]

Visualbyte,

Ieventc can only send one command whether a single command or multicommand (macro). You may want to send one command with payload data such as "changechannel 106" and then in a multicommand group in girder you parse the payload data and send individual commands to your receiver. That way you have only one macro. this works if you have buttons for each channel (espn, abc, nbc, etc) so you know the channel number ahead of time and you can hardcode it in the event sent to girder. Otherwise (if you have a numeric keypad), you have to send each number to a macro in girder (changechannel 1, changechannel 0, changechannel 6) and when you are done changing channels and hit enter you send changechannel enter. On the macro side you store all of the numbers in variables and then on enter you send all of the commands at once.

Hope this helps, and you are right, it is a pain...

Pablo

[KRavEN]

Well, I figured I'd give back a little. I've put together a MainLobby ProntoPro CCF and corresponding Girder GML file for controlling MainLobby and CasinoLobby. I have TVLobby in the works and I'll also add the others once they come out.

The IR codes are RC codes generated with panelmaker using my assigned RC5 number. All the IR codes are in macro panels so for you non-pro owners it should be pretty easy to use them for your own panels.

Please let me know if you find any bugs with my interface. I've worked most out I think.

There are some bugs I found with the games, but they work pretty well.

blackjack:

doubledown will still let you take a hit after you doubledown

You can take insurance at any time and it will just take large sums of money and put it in the pot no matter how many times you hit it. If you win, you only get paid on your original bet and loose all the money you put in by hitting insurance.

If you doubledown and just hit deal making it auto-bet on the next turn, instead of limiting you to a max of $200, it goes with $400

Poker:

You can deal without putting money in the pot

Slots:

You can spin with no money in the pot


I almost forgot. To get the quit from blackjack to work you need to put a transparent button in your blackjack.mls that is triggered by q and goes back to casinolobby.mls.

[Wysocki]

send one command with payload data such as "changechannel 106" and then in a multicommand group in girder you parse the payload data and send individual commands to your receiver
Pablo:
Have you done this and would you be willing to share the code? If not, could you maybe point me to how I would "parse the payload"? I'm also trying TVlobby and I see that when you select a channel for viewing, it creates an xml file with the channel number in it. How can I extract the channel number from the xml file with Girder to change the channel for me?

Terry

[dreicher]

Terry,

I can probably do that in the next release, if Pablo could send me an example girder string.

Dan

[PabloReiter]

Dreicher,

Any parameters on the commandline of ieventc.exe after the port number, password, etc is considered payload data. Each parameter (separated by a space) is passed in to the event as [pld1], [pld2], etc in string format.

I will set up an example of this in girder tomorrow and attach it here. I have done it with the serial device plugin and it works fine, but I need to tweak it for non-serial commands.

Pablo

[KRavEN]

Hey Dan, how about some recent MJ8 frontend screenshots to keep us salivating while Mario puts on the finishing touches to the next release?

[Wysocki]

Pablo:
So you must use ievent.exe to get a parseable string? Is there a way to send it instead with the IES interface in ML? How about a way for Girder to get the string from a file (like the xml listing file)?

[Al Sherwood]

Mario, I now have Mainlobby and I am thinking of DVDLobby, my question, from the screen shots on the website, the newer version has a different look to the main screen, will DVDLobby 2 have the ability to show the covers of the DVD's as shown in version 1.21d?

Also any ETA on 2.0?

[PabloReiter]

Wysocki,

The IES interface in ML calls Ieventc.exe under the covers. I think that if you add parameters after the event name, ML just passes them on. I am not 100% sure about this. Mario can verify or you can try it yourself.

I dont know how to parse an xml file inside girder. I imagine that there may be a way with the scripting engine, but I have not tried this at all.

Pablo

[mcascio]

Originally posted by Al Sherwood
Mario, I now have Mainlobby and I am thinking of DVDLobby, my question, from the screen shots on the website, the newer version has a different look to the main screen, will DVDLobby 2 have the ability to show the covers of the DVD's as shown in version 1.21d?

Also any ETA on 2.0?

Hi Al,

The beauty of DVDLobby Pro 2 is that it can look any way you'd like. You'll be able to select the backgrounds and buttons. Although, it will come with the standard Mario style preconfigured scenes. :)

Yes you'll be able to display dvd covers just like version 1.21d.

The IES interface in ML calls Ieventc.exe under the covers. I think that if you add parameters after the event name, ML just passes them on. I am not 100% sure about this. Mario can verify or you can try it yourself.

I recall the payload had just been introduced or was at least a very unknow feature at the time of MainLobby's original incarnation. So I didn't plan for it at the time. It may actually work although I haven't attempted it.

One thing is if it doesn't work by just adding a "," after your eventstring name is to try this. Enter in the eventstring name followed by an apostrophe comma apostrophe and then your payload data.
ie: evenstring name','payload data

This may work without any effort on my part.
Let me know if it does.

[Wysocki]

Mario:
I coded an eventstring followed by a space and a second string in the IES. Girder logger shows that besides the eventstring, it got the IP number of the sending machine in PLD1 and the second string in PLD2. The delimiter was the space. If I used any other characters (',';/-\) it just included them as part of the eventstring until a space was found. Now all I need to do is learn how to work with PLD2 and do things with it. The Girder instructions for LUA are definately not for the newbie. Anyone point me to some help?

Pablo:
I will set up an example of this in girder tomorrow and attach it here. I have done it with the serial device plugin and it works fine, but I need to tweak it for non-serial commands. An example would be MUCH appreciated, thanks!

[PabloReiter]

here is test.gml. It is a sample of an eventhandler to change channels.

There is a command called SendTestCommand. It has hardcoded a channel called 1234567890. It calls the command TestLua. You can call TestLua remotely for testing using ML by sending the eventstring TestLua followed by the channel number. The Lua script will parse the payload in pld2 and issue a 'ChangeChannel' event which right now is implemented as an OSD. You can replace each one with your own changechannel command.

Give it a try, it works fine on my system. if you change the OSD timeout to 100 or so, you will see flashing on the screen each number you send in.

Good luck!

[K-Wood]

Pablo:

Nice work -- I can't wait to get home to try it out. Gavin (Brockgr), mihooper, and others are doing something similar with NetRemote. They use a common format format for IE eventstrings that includes a channel number and then they use Lua scripting in Girder to parse the channel number (sent as pld2) and send changechannel commands to the appropriate device.

All of which raises a question: Can MainLobby display or incorporate feedback from Girder? In other words, if I have a Girder command that queries the volume level of my pre/pro, can I design a MainLobby button that will display that volume level? NetRemote can do this by using InternetEvent Client/Server, essentially reversing the process used to send payloads to Girder. So -- can I do the same thing in MainLobby?

Thanks,
Ken

[mcascio]

Hey Terry,

It's been a while since I looked at the payload syntax/eventstring.

So if I'm correct, it worked this way:

eventstringName Payload

Is this correct?

BTW folks,

The GUI for the align and distribute feature is now built and functioning great. All of the Library's have been redone to accomodate this new feature. You can select multiple buttons and move them simultaneously using the keyboard arrows.

There are now about 70 new buttons and graphics added to the MainLobby with additional libraries coming soon too that will be available from the Cinemar website.

MainLobby will now have a Caption for those of you looking to use Girder and having problems. You will also have the option to open it in a draggable window versus full screen. Another new feature is the ability to move MainLobby to another screen or to an exact position for that matter.

[PabloReiter]

K-Wood,

No, ML has no way of getting any type of outside data in unless you use some kind of flash programming.

The way I have done it is to install Gider on my progear and I send internet events from the server to the progear and instead of displaying them within ML, I do an OSD on top of ML for a second or so. This works great for volume, etc. It does not work very well for things like CD track where you'd really like a permanent place on the screen to display it. If Mario could display the contents of PLD2 in a string format on a button it woud be awesome! We could get all sorts of dynamic buttons built. I think lots of people are looking for this. What do ya say Mario???

Pablo

[mcascio]

Does anyone know Girder well enough to know how this would be possible though? I'd love to add the feature, but not sure how I would retrieve the information from Girder.

AFAIK, information is able to be passed, but I'm not sure how it would be pulled in using their ieventc.exe.

I'm open to ideas.

[vbich]

Originally posted by mcascio
Does anyone know Girder well enough to know how this would be possible though? I'd love to add the feature, but not sure how I would retrieve the information from Girder.

AFAIK, information is able to be passed, but I'm not sure how it would be pulled in using their ieventc.exe.

I'm open to ideas.

Mario,

I do not think you can receive girder events using ievent.exe, it is only for sending. There is an ActiveX object from girder's author that can send events to girder but to my knowledge it could not (at the time I looked) receive events, though the author was planning such feature. So, your option #1 is to convince girder's author to complete his activex.

The other option is to implement some protocol something like Winamp2 or ZoomPlayer's messaging API and have girder use SendMessage plugin. Both ZoomPlayer and Winamp use windows messages to communicate.

Of course, it works only when you have girder on the same machine as ML. I think you'd have to implement some socket server to be able to react on events from across the network.

Hope this helps.

[PabloReiter]

Mario,

Girder uses a protocol written entirely on top of TCP/IP sockets called Internet Event Protocol. It is fully documented on the girder website (www.girder.nl).

If it is too complex to be used within Flash, there may be other ways of doing it (windows messages, HTTP, etc) from Girder as well.

I can help out in any way except write code (I gave that up a looooong time ago!)

Pablo

[Wysocki]

I've attached a utility program that I wrote to help me manage and maintain my Mainlobby scenes. It allows you to export an MLS file to a comma separated value (CSV) file. This then can be edited with Excel or other apps that can import CSV files, then converted back into an MLS file for use in Mainlobby. I've used it a LOT to copy blocks of buttons from one scene to another and to create and align buttons in another format than Mainlobby.

It asks you for the input file name (eg: startup.mls) and the output file name (eg: startup.csv) then asks what order you want the output file in:

1=all the keys are sorted in button number order.
2=same as #1 except that non-button keys are listed first.
3=by key name.
You then have the option of including/excluding "empty" keys. This unclutters the CSV file for easier editing if you don't use a lot of parameters in ML. Once the CSV file is created, open it in Excel and you'll be able to easily copy/create additonal buttons. I also use this for documenting what I'm doing in a scene file.

To convert your edited CSV file back into an MLS for Mainlobby, just run the program again and select option 2. A side benefit of this program is that Mainlobby stores a LOT of redundant data every time you edit a scene. Duplicate keys are eliminated by converting to a CSV then back to a MLS format with the program.

Now for the embarassing part... It's written as a 16bit DOS program using Clipper. I'm strictly old school in programming (I could have written it in assembler) but the thing gets the job done! Just remember that you have to use the DOS naming convention for file names (eg: c:\progra~1\mainlo~1\myscene.mls). Keep your filenames short then rename them after conversion if you wish. The columns in the CSV file are KEY and VALUE. If you edit the CSV file don't worry about the order of the items, they'll convert back to ML with no problem. It works fine on all my MLS files, let me know if there're any problems.

[EDIT] 03/16/03: Updated program. Fixed bug in sort order #2.
For some reason I couldn't re-attach the zip file here. Get it with this link:HERE (http://www.wildworld.net/~wysocki/mainlobby_csv_utility.zip)

[mcascio]

Thanks Guys for the feedback. I'll stop by the Girder site and see if anything pops out. Otherwise I'll try to contact Ron and see if he can help out.

Terry,
Thanks for the contribution!

[mcascio]

I had mentioned a while back about a new audio product that I've just put the finishing touches on. These are perfect for use with MainLobby.

Here are the details:
TechTalker Volume 1 is a digital collection (MP3 or WAV) of over 570 sound clips narrated by a professional. Use them with MainLobby or with your own software to provide feedback when pressing buttons. HomeSeer is another great program TechTalker sound clips will work with. You can also use them in your Macromedia Flash projects. TechTalker includes a collection of home theater and home automation related words and phrases plus 10 bonus home theater introductions to entertain visitors to your theater prior to the movie. Using editing software, you can combine TechTalker with your own background music and soundFX to create your own.

You can get a complete listing of all 570+ words and phrases from:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/techtalker.html

Here is a zipped sample of all 10 bonus theater intro's plus some words & phrases:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/downloads/techtalker01samples.zip

The intro's are in a variety of styles and genre's to accomodate the theme of your theater. Friends and family should get a kick out of it. Using MainLobby, you could build an interface that launches any of the intro's prior to playing the movie.

[nherc]

OKay, this might be somewhat OT, but Mario said to ask in this thread.

Does anyone have a CDE for the Sony 875p DVD Changer to interface with a Slink-e?

Has anyone got a Slink-e working with the 875p? I can't seem to get my Slink-e 3.1 to accept any commands on the changer via the wired link.

The Slink-e appears to work and communicate otherwise... giving a quick orange blink when the Changer is manually powered on and off.

Are there any tricks to this? Do I need to enable something within the DVD changer to tell it to use the S-link rather than the infrared.

Sidenote, does everyones Sony changers disable the infrared input when you plug in something to the S-link?

[K-Wood]

nherc:
I don't have a ready answer, because I'm trying to do a similar thing with my Slink-E. I do, however, have it working with its IR output to control a DirecTiVo and a Sony TA-P9000ES preamp. I'm using cde files created with EZLearn for both.

But I have not yet been successful in controlling a Sony VCR (SLV-N81) via its SLink connection. I couple of thing that I intend to try including trying both Sony VCR cde files included with the Nirvis download; looking in RemoteCentral for specifics on the carrier frequency and other parameters for Sony devices; trying to use EZLearn to teach IR commands from my remote; and scouring the Nirivs listserv and the Homeseer boards for Sony cde files.

Some questions: have you gotten the Slinke to work with your 4es receiver? There should be a cde file for it in the Nirvis download.

Have you searched the Nirvis list archives or posted your question there?

Finally, take a look at the Homeseer message board. There are quite a few veteran Slinke users there, and someone might have a cde file that works for you.

Let us know if you have any luck.

- Ken

[K-Wood]

nherc:

I just read this thread (http://www.caseserve.com/cinemar/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=130&sid=aeeda54d507f0c79374d5251490367ad) on the Cinemar forum that seems to answer your question: use port 4080 on the Slinke and change the cde file, in EZLearn, to a carrier frequency of 0. Apparently the IR commands are the same as Slink commands, but with the Slink commands have a carrier frequency of 0.

I'll try it with my VCR tonight.

- Ken

[nherc]

Yeah, I looked at the Nirvis list for the 875p.cde, but no luck... so I started EZ Learning it... however I stopped after I couldn't even get the power command (via cmd line) to work via wired S-Link.

I already tried changing the port? to 4080 (for all outputs).

Perhaps the answer is in the carrier frequency of 0... *crosses fingers* I'll give a try tonight.

Oh, I didn't see a 4es.cde for the reciever so I figured I was going to have to make one for that as well. Would the 555es work?

Thanks for pointing out that thread.

[mcascio]

Hey Guys,

Just burning the midnight oil and thought I'd share a screenshot from the up and coming WebLobby. A beta release may be available soon. It will require the latest version of MainLobby to run (which will be available soon too). Please send me an email if you're interested in being notified when the beta is available.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/weblobby_screenshot.jpg

The Web browser can be positioned any where on screen and in any size. Then you can assign any of the 300+ MainLobby buttons web navigation commands as well as use any of the backgrounds.

[mcascio]

Yet another teaser for everyone.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/homemediasample.jpg

Here's a small sample image of some of the new draggable icons/buttons contained within the first external Library available for MainLobby.

The Home and Media Library is still in production and are turning out great so I thought I'd share.

Like all of the other buttons included with MainLobby, you'll be able to drag and drop and assign actions to the buttons. I'm still deciding on the rollover effect. It may be a glow, or may affect the background circle color, add a drop shadow and/or some may not include the circular object.

There will be over 36 unique objects relating to home automation and home theater.

[Jay Wilson]

Yes, I think I remember changing the carrier to 0. What I did was open the 875 cde file, change the carrier, and resave. Since it is a hardwired connection, there is no carrier frequency.

[ElvisIncognito]

Hey!!! That's MY house! I may have to sue!

BUT... I'm an agreeable kinda guy. I'll settle out of court for a copy of EverythingLobby. :D ;)

[mcascio]

Jay,
If you'd like, you can send me the CDE file and some simple instructions on how the changer should be hooked up and the appropriate settings for MainLobby. I can then post them on the Cinemar site. I know alot of users would like to get their hands on it. I will too once the 875P arrives. BTW, any ETA on that?

Thanks again.

ElvisIncognito,
You sure live in a small house if that's yours. Only 100 pixels wide. :)

[Jay Wilson]

Mario, It left here last week...Tuesday? Wednesday? I was out alot, and I know it didn't go on Monday. I had to get someone else to stay on top of it. Let me find a tracking number and I'll be back in a minute!

[Jay Wilson]

OK, as of this morning it is Louisville, KY. Teh scheduled day for delivery is wrong because I submitted the order on 3/4, so they figure 4 days transit and it shows ETA of 3/7. It actually left on 3/6, so you should have it on Wednesday. My HTPC is down, so before I send you the file, let me verify that my above instructions were correct.

[Jay Wilson]

OoooohhhhhH!

Mario, Your DVD player shows out for delivery!

[nherc]

Ahh, it'll be nice having the DVDLobby guru setting up shop with the same equipment I'm using ... Sony 875p and the Slink-e, in case I run into any other issues.

BTW, I did get wired control of the 875p DVD Changer and 4ES Receiver working finally... but now I'm having issues with Girder Events not working. See this thread about how I got the 875p and 4ES to play with the Slink-e: http://www.caseserve.com/cinemar/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=140&sid=0618a4d3f6b935ac4dd06205650ce792

[mcascio]

Jay,
That's great news.

I've got a spot right on my desk ready for testing. :)



nherc,
Will you able to access every control on the DVD player using the file I sent?

[nherc]

Have to get back to you on that Mario... I've only tried very basic commands so far... i.e. power, play.

[Jay Wilson]

WELL?!?!?!?

Is DVDLobby 2.0 ready yet? Come on Mario...You've had that DVD player 2 1/2 hours now...what's the holdup! :D:D:D

[mcascio]

Hey Jay,

I did have a visit from the brown box company (UPS).

I'm trying to get the Sony Changer up and running with MainLobby/Slinke but have not had success yet.

I've got two files:
sonycs.cde (Which I changed the type to "type=SLINK" and it also has a carrier of 0)
dvccs.cde

I've added dvccs.cde to MainLobby with the following 1,1,2048.

When I try to test any of the commands they don't seem to be working.

I've got the changer hooked up to the Control-S port on the Slinke.

Is this the same way you've got yours working?

[Jay Wilson]

On second thought...The S link is nothing more than an IR port that is hard wired. I am thinking that maybe I learned all teh commands, then set the carrier frequency to 0...

Try that on a couple of commands to verify. I'd send you the .cde file, but my HTPC is still down and I need a mobo (which is on order) to get it back. I really am starting to think I had to learn the IR commands...or was that on my other equipment? Hmmmm.

[nherc]

Mario,

This works (at least the basic stuff):

In ML Option/Slink-e (enable Slinke ActiveX), Sony_875p_DVD is my device name and I have 1,1,2048.

On the button in Edit mode 'Sony_875p_DVD:power' and I just check 'open_close' works as well once powered up.

I may have slightly modified the cde you sent (I don't recall while trying to get it to work) but I'll attach it to this thread. It's got the 875p.cde and the sonycs.cde it refers to.

Lastly, my 875 is connected to the Control-S Out port and is set to #1 on the toggle next to the Control-S in.

Hope this support helps. And, don't forget to send me the DVDLobby 2 beta to test. :)

-Nick

[Wysocki]

Mario, I have three problems/bugs in ML:

1. I'm trying to create a small desktop floating palette on my office PC with MainLobby that will give me access to a few of the things that I control with the full MainLobby on my tablet. I just want to control receiver volume, lights, and a couple of other things. I tried to setup ML with a small Custom Resolution the xshift/yshift it to somewhere on the desktop. But while the shift functions will move the buttons down where I want them, the screen still is blacked out up to the upper left corner. Am I doing something wrong or is ML incapable of this feature?

2. The Time buttons need to be resized or something. The HOURS button is really wide and the text appears left justified. This makes it overlap the colon and minutes buttons which makes it hard to edit. The minutes button is too small so with a large font (72point Samba Is Dead) it truncates the digits when it changes time. Both are a little to short vertically for a large font.

3. Can font colors only be set to the selections in the pick box? I wanted to set it to #CCCCDD and although I could type that in and the color sample looked good, I couldn't click anywhere to store it.

[mcascio]

Special thanks to all those that responded to my cry for controlling the Sony 875P. Being the idiot that I am, I had hooked up a cable that wasn't even plugged into the Sony. (Doohhhh)

The back of my equipment is hard to reach - even the Slinke - and it looks like a big bowl of pasta in the back. It's amazing how little things like that will do it. :)

Well I've got control working. I received several different files and ways of controlling the Sony via the Slinke. I'll be posting my findings soon. One way is very efficient and fast for changing discs.

1. I'm trying to create a small desktop floating palette on my office PC with MainLobby that will give me access to a few of the things that I control with the full MainLobby on my tablet. I just want to control receiver volume, lights, and a couple of other things. I tried to setup ML with a small Custom Resolution the xshift/yshift it to somewhere on the desktop. But while the shift functions will move the buttons down where I want them, the screen still is blacked out up to the upper left corner. Am I doing something wrong or is ML incapable of this feature?

Terry,
I think the next free update is the answer to your prayers. It will contain an X move and Y move plus be able to open in a draggable window. The shift just moves the movie within the window. This will allow you to create the smaller remote version you are looking for.

2. The Time buttons need to be resized or something. The HOURS button is really wide and the text appears left justified. This makes it overlap the colon and minutes buttons which makes it hard to edit. The minutes button is too small so with a large font (72point Samba Is Dead) it truncates the digits when it changes time. Both are a little to short vertically for a large font.

I'm still battling with text boxes. I've stopped making any additions to this latest version...otherwise it will never get released. But I do have plans to allow the user to specify the text box size which should solve alot of the issues you are having above.

3. Can font colors only be set to the selections in the pick box? I wanted to set it to #CCCCDD and although I could type that in and the color sample looked good, I couldn't click anywhere to store it.

Just press OK once you've entered your color code to exit the button properties then try saving the MLS file. It should work AFAIK. The color palette box is a plugin that I'm using, I don't have any immediate plans to update that or at least it's not super high up on the list especially if you can manually enter the color code of your desire and still save it.

[Rich Gibson]

I've been trying the MainLobby evaluation version and I've decided to go this route. I am at a standstill about what to get next. I want to control a number of A/V components from a HTPC. Do I need girder, or is a Slink-e all that I need (aside from the sensors, of course)?

Thanks, Rich

[mcascio]

Hi Rich,

Girder could be used if you want to control components via Serial.

You could use the Slinke to control anything IR (Kenwood, Pioneer, etc.) or Sony branded equipment that have Slink or ControlS. You can also just control Sony equipment with an IR emitter attached to the Slinke as well.

You may need to explain what your setup will be to better answer your question of whether Girder is necessary at all for your application.

[Jay Wilson]

Hey Mario, What's your initial impression of the DVD changer? Are you running direct to your pj or through the HTPC and scaling?

[mcascio]

Hey Jay,

Well - I really haven't had much time to do anything other than trigger it to launch movies. It's currently just sitting in my office playing on an old Sony 27" TV via RCA plugs. I probably won't hook it up in the theater until I'm done with DVDLobby 2.0. :)

Did you guys notice Sony spelled the word, "Surround" as "Sorround" on the front of the unit?

The should have put the text through a spell checker. :) Hey, that would be a neat feature for MainLobby...don't worry folks, not high on my list. :)

[Rich Gibson]

"You may need to explain what your setup will be to better answer your question of whether Girder is necessary at all for your application"

Pretty strainght forward.

- HTPC (ASUS P4S533 1.8ghz P4)
curently using Matrox eTV 450 but NTSC s-video is pretty dismal. Also
have tried Radeon 8500DV; equally bad video plus with XP PRO it crashes
4-5 times a day. Have sent for ASUS PCI TV Tuner and Geoforce vid card
with TV in/out.
- Sharp 15" LCD (located on coffee table)
- Wireless "gyro" mouse ($1000 for the Viewsonic touch panel is a bit too
rich, even for me!)
- Denon THX receiver
- Sony DVD
- Panasonic DMR-E30 DVD burner
- Kenwood DVM 5900 (will purchase in 2 months)
- Sony 990 Stereo VCR
-Cox digital Cable
-Tivo 40 hour PVR
-Musicmatch for MP3 playing

-Sony XBR 61" RPTV (will replace either with NEC front projector or 65"
Mitsubishi RPTV

- Room side lighting and spot lights for individual seats in room

I just want to switch around to various sources automatically. I want to search for movies either with DVDProfiler or DVD Lobby (next release?) then press go and watch.

Possibly control another Cox Digital Cable box in another room and a TIVO series 2 in another bedroom.

Rich

[mcascio]

Hi Rich,

It sounds like you will be controlling all your components from the computer connected to the Slinke.

What are you sources running into? Your receiver?

If so, then you won't need Girder.

If you have your sources funneling into your HTPC and need to switch inputs on your software, then you would utilize Girder.

Hope this helps.

[Rich Gibson]

All go through the sivideo inputs of a Denon AVP-8000 THX Tuner-Preamplifier. Looks like you've answered everything.

Incidentally I ordered the Slink-e from your site; thanks for the answer.

Now, may I ask one more? I posted it elsewhere, but since I'm on a roll maybe you know the answer too. I replced my Matrox eTV with two ASUS boards to get better video. The TV video on my HTPC is great, however, I didn't research enough. Neither board has video output...boy do I fee stupid. The main video card does have a DVI connector with a VGA adapter. Is there some way I can convert this to either composite or S-Video to put into the Denon, or even my Sony RPTV?

Thanks, Rich

[mcascio]

Hi Rich,

I imagine there's a cable out there that will convert VGA to SVideo.

My first stop would be to check a company like http://www.a2zcables.com - I purchased all my cables through them when putting in my theater.

AVScience may actually carry that particular cable too or Dconnections.

[mcascio]

Some exciting news for you weekend MainLobby users. :) MainLobby 2.25 is now available free of charge to registered users of ML 2.0+.

This new update includes heavy coding necessary for the up-coming release of WebLobby along with many other new features noted below.

New Features found in MainLobby 2.25
· Hide Mouse Pointer Option
· New Align Panel
· Select Multiple buttons using the Control Key
· Added Window Caption to program (MainLobby) for controlling MainLobby from Girder
· Option to open MainLobby in a standard draggable window
· Over 65 new Library graphics
· New Background Skins
· Reload a .jpg every second (Security Camera support)
· New self install routine and icon
Bug Fixes:
· Design coordinates were appearing underneath FX layers
· Miscellaneous

MainLobby 2.25 Documentation Update
Moving and Aligning Buttons
To select and move multiple buttons, select a button on the Stage (a red box will surround the button). Hold the Control Key then select additional
buttons. Move the buttons around on the Stage using the Arrow Keys. Hold the Shift Key down in conjunction with any Arrow Key to move in 10 pixel increments.

You can also center buttons on the Stage using the new Align Panel. The
Distribution button allows you to even space buttons vertically or horizontally.

If for some reason you are registered for MainLobby 2 and did not receive an email regarding this free update, please contact me. Your email address may have changed since you originally registered and I'd be happy to update your info.

[mcascio]

Hi Folks,

Just put the finishing touches on WebLobby. It's ready for action.

You can learn more about it from:
Cinemar's WebLobby Page (http://www.cinemaronline.com/weblobby.html)

This requires MainLobby 2.25 in order to work properly.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/images/320screenshot_weblobby02.jpg

Notice a HomeSeer web server page embedded within MainLobby. There are quite a few web based automation software out there that can now be integrated with MainLobby!

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
Another neat product!

Some installation feedback:
Initially the white IE box didn't show up. Took me a few minutes to realize that the default weblobby.mls .swf paths were for your PC, not mine. Changing them back to the standard paths fixed that problem. FYI to others.

When typing in a new URL in the MenuBar and hitting Go, you go there. But, if you hit the Back button, the URL stays what you typed, not the new URL of the current page.

Menu Bar - when you highlight a portion of the path by click and drag, the default colors don't easily show what you are highlighting (I am a bit color blind, but some contrast would be great!).

This should make my existing HomeSeer pages look integrated with ML. thanx.

By the way, I would have purchased your whole suite this time, but I am waiting for DVDLobby2 - any thoughts of extending your suite pricing for those that purchased all of the components seperately? (Give the discount on the last piece?)

Question on ML 2.25 - the "Window Caption" new functionality - what is it? Can this be used for HomeSeer to trigger a Girder event (like a light turned off) and then for Girder to trigger a ML derived .mls floorplan image to graphically "turn off" a ML light icon? As mentioned in prior posts, I can click on a ML light icon, to execute a Girder event which then runs a HS event to actually turn off the light. Need the opposite to happen so I can use ML screens as a front end for HomeSeer. Hope this is a temp answer until you and Rich come up with a more native integration.

In a prior post, it was asked for the button functionality so that when button "A" in a suite of, say, 4 buttons, that the state of a prior "on" button ("C") changes to "off" and that the new pressed button ("A") turns "on". Can we do this now? I have been waiting on this functionality before doing major screen work as I find this to be needed for selecting audio / video sources, effects, etc. Can I use "Window Caption" for this with Girder doing the button switching?

Also - no non kiosk mode yet? WebLobby helps, but I still would like for MainLobby to not take over my PC!

The new install path is a pain for my existing .mls files as all static paths then need to be updated. Am I seeing that Save As now saves where the file exists and now doesn't default to the MainLobby root directory? If so, then I can move my .mls files to their own directory? If you are going to create a new Cinamar root, it would be nice for MainLobby to be a directory off the Cinamar root (and DVDLobby, TVLobby, WebLobby, etc) to be at the same level as MainLobby. Just trying to stay organized...

Looks like the new mainlobby.ini looses my slinke and girder settings? No big deal, but it would be nice to not have to retype with each upgrade.


Thanx for the great work (really - even if it sounds like I am being critical!).

David

[mcascio]

Initially the white IE box didn't show up. Took me a few minutes to realize that the default weblobby.mls .swf paths were for your PC, not mine. Changing them back to the standard paths fixed that problem. FYI to others.

Thanks. Fixed this.

When typing in a new URL in the MenuBar and hitting Go, you go there. But, if you hit the Back button, the URL stays what you typed, not the new URL of the current page.

Looking into this.

I also noticed the ML command drop down field is getting duplicate items when going back into the Edit Button Properties panel.

Menu Bar - when you highlight a portion of the path by click and drag, the default colors don't easily show what you are highlighting (I am a bit color blind, but some contrast would be great!).


Not sure how much control I have over this item, since it's a feature builtin to Flash. Once the user can change the font and color though in the URL bar, it may clean things up.


Question on ML 2.25 - the "Window Caption" new functionality

I'm not exactly sure how people were intending to use the Window Caption. I know they wanted to address the mainlobby window from Girder but were having problems. I believe if you read back about 5 or 6 pages, you may find out what they were trying to do. I'd be curious to know what type of control you can have over MainLobby from Girder. I'm not sure if your idea is feasible.

In a prior post, it was asked for the button functionality so that when button "A" in a suite of, say, 4 buttons, that the state of a prior "on" button ("C") changes to "off" and that the new pressed button ("A") turns "on". Can we do this now? I have been waiting on this functionality before doing major screen work as I find this to be needed for selecting audio / video sources, effects, etc. Can I use "Window Caption" for this with Girder doing the button switching?

Again, I'm not sure of the answer whether Girder will help in this situation. You currently can't assign groups. I've run out of real-estate on the Button Properties panel so I plan to start work on the macro feature which then ties into the button state.

Also - no non kiosk mode yet? WebLobby helps, but I still would like for MainLobby to not take over my PC!

You can have MainLobby open in a standard Window. Select OPTIONS | DISPLAY and check the box "Open in Window". Then save and restart MainLobby.

The new install path is a pain for my existing .mls files as all static paths then need to be updated.

The location was just a suggestion to help standardize things, but the user can select any directory or folder they desire. It appears no one is storing MainLobby in the same directory so I had to pick something. :)

Am I seeing that Save As now saves where the file exists and now doesn't default to the MainLobby root directory? If so, then I can move my .mls files to their own directory?

Not unless a bug manually fixed it self. :) You should still save your mls files in the root directory where MainLobby.exe resides.

Looks like the new mainlobby.ini looses my slinke and girder settings? No big deal, but it would be nice to not have to retype with each upgrade.

It's my first time using an install routine so bear with me as I learn. :) I would recommend just making a back up of your .ini file or your entire folder for that matter. You never know. Then just replace the new .ini file with your backed up .ini file and it will remember all your settings.

Thanx for the great work (really - even if it sounds like I am being critical!).

No problem. It's the first release so there are bound to be some things people won't like or would rather have work another way. Feedback is important and very valuable for improving the product. I look forward to more whether it be positive or negative.

[BigNoseJr]

Mario,

Great work on Web Lobby. I see this does use Internet Explorer as the browser. I was curious if things like active X, java etc. still work fully using this within Main Lobby. Thanks.

[mcascio]

Eric (BigNoseJR),

Thanks.

AFAIK, it functions exactly as Internet Explorer. So theoretically, you should be able to do anything that you could do in the browser normally.

Not unless they've crippled the ActiveX somehow, which I doubt. Give it a whirl. :)

[BigNoseJr]

Mario,

I'm noticing a problem when linking to Web Lobby from the first loaded page in Main Lobby. Linking works correctly and displays the Web Lobby page correctly. However, it's jumping back or to another page from the Web Lobby page that things get a bit out of place.

When jumping to another page from Web Lobby, that page will be displayed but the browser box from the Web Lobby page also stays displayed and no matter what page I continue to jump to the browser window remains. There are also times, when jumping back to the Web Lobby scene from the scene I had jumped to from Web Lobby (phew, lots o' jumping) the browser no longer works and is replaced with a white filled box. Attempting to edit or move the browser in design mode is next to impossible as that white box remains and is actually on top of the web browser's design box. Perhaps this is an instance of the browser in a locked state? Meaning it attempted to load but locked up midway.

Hopefully I've explained this properly so it makes sense and gives you a place to start if in fact it is a bug and not an error on my part. Let me know if you can replicate what is happening here.

[_K_C_]

Mario

Great product and great support as always. Even on a Sunday:)

Is there any way to navigate other than using the URL bar (ie by using buttons)? I was thinking of setting up a set of Favourites buttons - click on the button and navigate to the web page. Putting a web address in the normal html property of the button just launches IE...

If not, would it be possible to - for example - change Web.Navigate so that it accepts a variable (and in the absence of a variable looks at the URL bar)?

KC

[Wysocki]

Mario:
If I click on an mls file in explorer, ML starts up but NOT with the scene that I clicked on. Does ML support command line parameters? I'd also like if it accepted a parameter for what-ini-file-to-use. Sometimes I'd like to start ML on my development machine but if my htpc is down, slinkserve hangs everything up so I could use an alternate ini file. Also, I'd like to create a little mini-app for my desktop that would not use the same settings as my main house-control version. It'd be great to be able to override ini file settings on the command line.

On another note, whenever you design some new buttons, I'd like something that I can use for X10 lighting control. I conceive four buttons stacked vertically from top to bottom: on, brite, dim, off. Maybe a bright bulb on the top one with a black bulb on the bottom and an up/down arrow for the middle two. Actually, an up/down pair of matched buttons (similar to your left/right semicircles) with boxes to fit between them would be handy in several instances.

Weblobby: I don't see a URL bar on the Weblobby.mls. If I look at the file with my ML_CONV utility (http://www.wildworld.net/~wysocki/mainlobby_csv_utility.zip), I see that button7 is the url bar but the xpos of it was set at -80. Even after I changed it to a positive value I still don't see it. A related issue may be that the library pulldown does not show weblobby. Could this be a folder name issue with a hardcoded path?

[smoothtlk]

I think ML launches with the user defined default .mls.

Hide the Design bar and look for the URL bar at the top of the web .mls. I lost it too.

I mentioned the Slinke hang to Mario once before. My temp solution is to load slinke local and point to local and server. That way when the server is down, ML doesn't crash. Mario said it wasn't an easy fix but that he was going to look into it.

I concur with the On Dim Off light stack. Need it for Homeseer.

Mario - Win98 Tablet - I completely uninstalled ML (Add / Remove...), deleted the ML directory, and then loaded 2.25 ML onto it again. Ran it and it was fine. Then I copied the complete ML directory from another fully working XPPro PC to the tablet (so my custom screens and directories are setup same for both). Slinke opens slowly then I get a familiar "Macromedia Flash Player 6 - A script in the movie is causing Macro Flash Play 6 to run slowly. If it continues to run, your computer may become unresponsive. Do you want to abort the script?" When I say yes, I get what looks like the button properties selection box blinking, dimming etc, and the PC is kinda locked. Hitting Escape or Ctrl Alt Delete ML Task shutdown gets me out of it. Something weird about Win98 now? Has all updates. Are you entering stuff in the registry during your setup? Or, can I just copy the complete ML (PFiles\Cinemar\MainLobby...) directory over and expect it to run on a "non installed" PC? As mentioned above, I first did a proper install.

thanx
David

[mcascio]

Can everyone let me know if they had any problems with the new MainLobby install routine? It should load a complete scene that looks like a receiver after installation is complete.

BigNoseJr,
I'll look into the issue you mentioned.

Be sure to use the Web.Close when going to another scene where the WebBrowser will not be present. This should I believe fix your issue.

Great product and great support as always. Even on a Sunday

Thanks K_C_.
I had to bug out from the long weekend of development last night. Turned in early. ;)

I like your idea of allowing the user to designate where they will navigate to. I think a variable associated with Web.Navigate should work. I'll start putting a wish list together.

If I click on an mls file in explorer, ML starts up but NOT with the scene that I clicked on. Does ML support command line parameters?

Terry,
This currently won't work. I started development on this and it got put aside for some other things. I'll look into it again.


Sometimes I'd like to start ML on my development machine but if my htpc is down, slinkserve hangs everything up so I could use an alternate ini file. Also, I'd like to create a little mini-app for my desktop that would not use the same settings as my main house-control version. It'd be great to be able to override ini file settings on the command line.

I understand Terry. I'm having problems checking to see whether a Slinke is present. I'm still trying to find the work-a-round for this so it doesn't hang. Here's a qucik fix that should work for you though.
Create two .ini files:
- one with the Slinke configured (mainlobby1.ini)
- one without (mainlobby2.ini)

Then create two batch files.
One that will copy mainlobby1.ini to mainlobby.ini
One that will copy mainlobby2.ini to mainlobby.ini

Sample batch file:
Copy c:\progra~1\mainlobby\mainlobby1.ini c:\progra~1\cinemar\mainlobby.ini
c:\wait.exe 2
start c:\progra~1\mainlobby\mainlobby.exe

The wait program just adds a 2 second delay for the copy command to complete. You can find wait.exe on the
Cinemar (http://www.cinemaronline.com) website. I believe it's on the DVDLobby Pro FAQ page.

Then create a shortcut to each batch file.

Make sense?

[mcascio]

I mentioned the Slinke hang to Mario once before. My temp solution is to load slinke local and point to local and server. That way when the server is down, ML doesn't crash. Mario said it wasn't an easy fix but that he was going to look into it.

Terry,

I think I may have just solved the problem with the Slinke hang. It's amazing what you can accomplish at 2:30am. :)
I should know for sure tomorrow with a more clear head.

[Jay Wilson]

Hi Mario, I have downloaded the new ML, and just loaded it on an initial trial here at the office. I can't seem to scale to fit the monitor...I see only about half of the volume control, and the rest falls off the screen at the right. Anything I do to asjsut display has no effect. Anyone have an idea? Also, I had abcolutely zero probelms with the install routine. Definately made it easy!

Lastly, I like the teaser of the new DVDLobby...but, QUIT TEASING ALREADY!!! :D

[Jay Wilson]

ok, This is my 1st time to play since about 1/2 dozen versions ago :) I reset my diplay properties (in control panel) to 1024x768 and I can see all of the "receiver" Obviously this layer is designed for this setting. I reember reading that. Is there any way to adjust it for a different resolution?

[mcascio]

Hey Jay,

From the MainLobby menu bar:
OPTIONS | DISPLAY allows you to configure MainLobby for your proper monitor resolution.

Sorry about the teasers. :)

[Jay Wilson]

Originally posted by mcascio
Hey Jay,

From the MainLobby menu bar:
OPTIONS | DISPLAY allows you to configure MainLobby for your proper monitor resolution.

Sorry about the teasers. :)

I did that, but it doesn't change the size of the receiver.

[mcascio]

Hi Jay,

Yes you can scale the entire interface.

Under OPTIONS | DISPLAY:
Set the X and Y resolution to the same as your monitor.

THe skin you are looking at was designed for a 1024x768 display. You've got a couple options. You could use a different background that is large and or modify the current one and then maneuver the buttons or add more.

If you want to just scale the entire screen, adjust the X and Y scale until it fills your monitor.

Make sense?

[Jay Wilson]

Yep. Makes perfect sense. Thanks Mario.

[mcascio]

I've had two users report problems with MainLobby 2.25.

When booting it appears to get caught in some infinite loop causing the user to cancel the running script.

Can others let me know (good or bad) how the new version is working?

I've noticed that one user is having problems when trying to launch MainLobby from Girder. Works fine on my system though.

Terry - are you trying to launch MainLobby from Girder when you run into this problem?

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
Reported in a previous post, I am still having a problem with a Win98 touchscreen during boot. Locks up. Flash script error.
Any clues?
david

[Wysocki]

No, this is on my webtablet. Girder is on my HTPC.

I previously had ML installed in c:\program files\main lobby (with a space in the name). I unzipped ML2, and ran the install again. It prompted me for an install location of c:\program files\mainlobby (without a space). I remember that when I first installed 2.25, it prompted me for c:\program files\cinemar. Where did it come up with this new folder name from?

The install went smoothly, and at the end it asked if I wanted to start ML. I clicked OK and the app started by displaying the skins\screeninterface1.jpg without any buttons on it. I went to the menu bar and the filename there showed mainlobbydata.mls. I went into Options. Scene showed a background skin= 1. Display showed screensaver= screensavers\screensaver02.swf and startup scene= mainlobbydata.mls

I "open"ed a few scenes manually, and they looked fine. I set the default startup scene to mainlobby2_skin01.mls, did an "apply" and OK. I Exited ML, restarted and it came up as it did the first time. The startup scene was mainlobbydata.mls. I changed the startup scene again, but this time I did a SAVE for the scene (which was shown as being mainlobbydata.mls). Upon restarting, the system hung for a while then gave the script error and the scene went wild with animation.

If you'd like to check this out, Mario, I'd be happy to setup a PCanywhere session for you at your convenience.

[Boxster_T]

Newbie question.

Is there a method to change what MLS scene is displayed in MainLobby via an external event? For example, force a jump to "B.mls" from any scene if a disk is inserted or upon a particular remote control keypress. I'm using Girder to trap the event.

General question
Any news on MusicLobby?

Tom

[mcascio]

Hi Folks,

Sorry for the lack of attention to this thread.

I've been focused on DVDLobby Pro 2 which is now available. I'll be providing details and features soon.
You can upgrade via the DVDLobby page. (http://www.cinemaronline.com/dvdlobby.html)

I'm trying to figure out the problem with MainLobby 2.25. It appears it's related to users running it on the ProGear webtablet.

Which leads me to believe it might be a problem with Win98. Terry can you confirm your tablet is running Win98?

Can some others confirm what OS they are running ML 2.25 on and if they are experiencing similar symptoms?
- MainLobby either hangs or just loads the default scene


I did find a bug that prevented MainLobby from repositioning itself - for users who wanted to launch MainLobby on a second display. (ie Radeon 9700). I'll post an update once I can track down this latest bug.

[mcascio]

Originally posted by Boxster_T
Newbie question.

Is there a method to change what MLS scene is displayed in MainLobby via an external event? For example, force a jump to "B.mls" from any scene if a disk is inserted or upon a particular remote control keypress. I'm using Girder to trap the event.

General question
Any news on MusicLobby?

Tom

Tom,

I was working on the ability to pass a command line variable into MainLobby but haven't had a chance to take a second look at it. This may be what you would need to force mainlobby to go to another scene.

I haven't heard from Dan on MusicLobby...perhaps he's lingering on the forum.

[Rich Gibson]

Mario,
Still confused here. In an email to me you said DVDLobby was Beta, but both your comments on this site and your site seem to imply it's ready to go; namel , in production.

I just bought DVDLobby a few weeks ago, do I REALLY have to pay another $20 so soon after buying 1.21d?

Rich

[mcascio]

Hi Rich,
I labeled it DVDLobby Pro 2 (beta) loosely simply because it may have some bugs in it and doesn't have all the features I want in it yet. I've released it sooner than later because of the large amount of demand.

I prefer not to discuss pricing here out of respect for the forum. I would be happy to discuss it via email.
However, I purposely priced the upgrade below the cost of what the final price of DVDLobby Pro 2 will sell for specifically for situations like yours so as not to punish earlier users. The upgrade pricing was also published for the past several months on the site so I wouldn't surprise anyone.

I'm a little hesitant to make DVDLobby Pro 2 available publicly until I hear more back from initial testers, but so far barring a few minor errors on my part that have now been fixed, it appears it should work fairly well out of the box.

Believe me, a lot of work has gone into making DVDLobby Pro 2 (2 hours sleep last night) and there is still quite a bit left. This latest version competes with system's costing thousands plus the user never has to leave MainLobby.

[Wysocki]

Mario,
2.25b does NOT fix the problem. If I set the default scene to startup.mls, ML starts with mainlobbydata.mls as the scene name but it is displaying the mainlobby2_skin01.mls image and the scene settings just show "1" as the background image. The 2.25 bugs have been on both my Win98SE Progear and my Win98SE development machine. The HTPC is Win2k but I only have Slinkserv and Girder running on it.

On another note, how happy are you with the performance of your Progear (or anyone else's)? Even without the outside delays of Girder and other factors that affect response time, just changing a scene takes about 3-7 seconds on my Progear. Maybe it's just to weak for ML and my expectations. Is there any way to "compile" or preprocess ML? I also thought I read somewhere that there's a way to strip Win98 of a bunch of overhead so that it could run a single app better but I forgot where. Does ML run under Linux?

[mitchem]

Some ML users have been requesting a stack-based "back" feature that would make the back" command in ML work more like a web browser. I just finished this code and have sent it to Mario.

Expect it in the next release :D

Terrence Mitchem

[ccclapp]

Originally posted by mcascio
Hi Folks,

I've been focused on DVDLobby Pro 2 which is now available. I'll be providing details and features soon.
You can upgrade via the DVDLobby page. (http://www.cinemaronline.com/dvdlobby.html)
.

Mario

Do you have a thread going for DVDLobby2.0?

--Caleb

[Boxster_T]

Originally posted by mcascio
Tom,

I was working on the ability to pass a command line variable into MainLobby but haven't had a chance to take a second look at it. This may be what you would need to force mainlobby to go to another scene.

Mario,

Sounds like it. Let me know if you need a beta tester.

Tom

[mcascio]

Originally posted by ccclapp
Mario

Do you have a thread going for DVDLobby2.0?

--Caleb

Hi Caleb,

Sorry forgot to post the info here. Here's the latest DVDLobby Pro 2 thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=240286

DVDLobby Pro 2.04 Features
-Import DVD Profiler 2 information & cover art/back
-Automatically converts to non-progressive jpg
-Works within MainLobby
-Search by Title
-Overview View (description, rating, minutes, genre, production year)
-Thumbnails View
-Genre View
-Auto Slideshow mode
-Sort Movies by Movie Title, Sort Title, Rating, Production Year, Genre, Collection Number, Changer Location
-Sony DVD Changer Control (Requires Slinke - no batch files necessary)
-Launch digital media files stored locally (Batch file support)

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/dvdlobby2screen03.jpg

[fflip]

Has anyone put together a list of the different characters for the controlicons font? Thanks if advance.

Flip

[smoothtlk]

Looks like TVLobby had an expiration date?
I get a message like this when I try to launch it.

Kraven - did you ever work out the bugs in TVLobby? I never could get it to populate the complete tv schedule.

Are you expecting to release another version or how does one restart the clock on the limited time one?

Thanx

[Jay Wilson]

Mario,
OK, just to be sure...I have another Cm11a to take home tonight and try with ML...Do I need anything other than ML and the .cde file for the slinke? Just want to be 100% certain that there are no other "drivers" or other software necessary to make this work.

thanks!

[Jay Wilson]

OK, Got the new CM11a to work. My old one is probably fine as well. It is working on/off (no dim-see below), but still shows a big red X in slink serv. This must be normal. I tried it both in CDJ and ML to make sure that it wasn't a software issue, and that's when I discoverd that it always (?) has and apparently should have the red X in slink serv. Can someone else take a peek at their slink serv with ML running to see the status of the cm11a?

Also, Mario, a suggestion for documentation...It needs to be a little bit more in depth for the command strusture in ML. It took me forever to figure out that it really didn't matter what device was in the frop down box on the far left side of the slinke command bar. I also had to figure out that in the far right command box you have to reenter the device name. In other words, my device reads "sonydvd" but the command box (where I type)( says "cm11a:on[a1]". Hopefully this will help out someone else struggling with the X10 stuff.

Lastly...what commands are you using for dimming? I can't seem to get them to work. According to the nirvis help files the syntax should be cm11a:dim[a1,level]. so I entered "cm11a:dim[a1,11]". This should relate to 50% as the level can be between 0 and 22 (0-100%). However, nothing happens unless the lights are off, and then they come on 100%. I also have to remove the comma and insert a space, so the only command that does anything is "cm11a:dim [a1 11]". I can even leave out the level, and the lights still come on. I assume I have something wrong in the way I am doing the level. Any help? In looking through X10 website, it says this behavior is normal for an appliance module (that does not have dimming capabilities) but I verified (and even tried another) that I am using a dimmable lamp module.

[Wysocki]

Jay,
The red X in SlinkServ is normal for cm11a, it represents X-10 (stupid choice for an icon). Mario said there was some issue with parsing the comma in the dim command, don't know if it's been fixed yet.

Mario,
Any news on why ML is weird on the startup of some Win98 boxes? I still can't have mine start with startup.mls, it needs to have mainlobbydata.mls as the opening scene. In the editor, if I click on OPEN for a scene, it starts off in the \windows folder. Didn't it use to start in the ML folder?

Also, any status updates available on MusicLobby and TVlobby? I'm waiting to automate my music collection until MusicLobby appears and my TVLobby is dead (March 31 expiration). Even CasinoLobby won't load now. I'm getting discouraged.

[Jay Wilson]

Thanks Wysocki...Where were you 2 weeks ago when I stareted thinking I had cm11a problems :D Just kidding...you're right...stupid choice for an icon!

Glad to hear it's a problem with the info. I'm going crazy over here searching for another set of activex commands to make sure I'm not doing something wrong!

Thanks Wysocki!

[dreicher]

Hello all. I've been working on a new program along the lines of MainLobby and I'm looking for a few good men to test it out.

Remember way back in the day...I mentioned trying to put together a "bar-trivia" type game for MainLobby. Well, at this point...it's become it's own animal - but I'm looking at future integration into MainLobby.

Anyway, it's a real-time, interactive trivia game with chat, etc. where everybody plays against one another in real time...same questions...blah blah blah.

I'd like to open it up to make sure the command server and chat server can handle a load of 30 - 50 simultaneous users before I really make the final push on this baby. I'd very much appreciate your help over the next couple of days by playing a few rounds.

You can download the install program here (http://66.93.18.40/client/setup.exe). Once installed, register as a new user and send me an email to dreicher@interactrivia.com to let me know you've registered and you're from the ML group. I will upgrade your membership to 'premium' and you can take full advantage of the IM features and get rid of the advertising stuff.

Your help in this is greatly appreciated, along with your feedback!

Thanks,

Dan

[Jay Wilson]

You guys have to download and come check out the trivia!!!! It's very cool!!! Gotta go play some more!

[smoothtlk]

Dan has done another great job with his new Trivia program.
Check it out!

[Steve_T]

Dan,

Was it you who showed us a glimpse of an interface similar to Glissando but was going to be called musiclobby, if not just ignore me, if so has it been put on the back burner or has it been scrapped?

Steve.

[fflip]

guick one, not sure the best way to do this
I am creating a scene to control my HDTV and basically i want to create a bunch of favorites that when pressed go to the appropriate channel. I have added my device using easy learn and added it in to mainlobby as a slinke device. My question is what is the best way to go to a specific channel ie i click on comedy central button and channel 249 gets entered? is using girder the best (already have girder in other parts of mainlobby and dvdlobby) or is writing a batch file better for this? or is trying Which i have not adding through easy learn the complete channel? Thanks for the advice

Flip

[dreicher]

Steve,

That was me, and I haven't forgotten about it. It was contingent on the newest version of MainLobby being released. That, of course, has happened. I just need to get it back together and ready for beta release.

Dan

[K-Wood]

Dan:
I'm another one who is eagerly awaiting your MusicLobby program! It will be a great complement to my MainLobby interface on my plasma...;)

I assume that it will still work with J. River's MediaCenter as the playback engine? If so, it'd be great to coincide your release with MC 9's final release (its just leaving beta stage now).

- Ken

[SNOOT]

Dan,

One more awaiting your MusicLobby program.

DaveS.

[Steve_T]

Having a plasma myself it would be great to have a 856 x 480 rez.

Looking forward to this!!

Steve.

[fflip]

Ok,
I am finally getting around to actually hooking everything up and implementing my first version of my mainlobby control system for my theater. I have girder running and talking to slinke all the time, I can not get mainlobby to issue the commands to the slinke. I have a zantec bus connected to ir port 0 off of the slinke, i have set up the slinke information in mainlobby as such

device = hdtv
device file = c:\program files\nirvis\device files\zenith\hdtv.cde
Device = 1
Slinke = 1
port = 0

I than go in and set up buttons to access commands through slinke with the drop downs. My problem is that i am not getting them to execute? is the port correct? or is that supposed to be the port that the device is hooked up to. or the port that the slinke is on? I cant tell from the documentation. Any help would be appreciated.

Flip

[Jay Wilson]

the port must be the one that the TV is connected to. Port 4080 is all ports.
If I remember correctly is goes something like this...I know the actual port numbers are somewher in this 23 page thread :)

Port A1/0=1
Port A1/1=2
Port A1/2=4
Port A1/3=8
Port IR0=16
Port IR1=32
Port IR2=64
Port IR3=128
Port IR4=256
Port IR5=512
Port IR6=1024
Port IR7=2048 (also used for s link port on slinke)
All ports=4080

I hope these are right without having to dig through the rest of the thread...try 4080, which is all ports, and see if you get activity.

[fflip]

Well i remember seeing in the documentation for dvdlobby that all ports was 4080. I tried that and did not work, i than tried 16 which is mentioned in your post and no luck. I have everything added into girder anyway so i am going to just use girder as i want to create favorites for tv channels and girder seems to be the only viable option for that as of right now. Thanks for the info.

Flip

[mcascio]

Flip,

It should work with 1,1,4080 as your settings.

Can you elaborate on how you have the Xantech connected to the Slinke. I have a Xantech 789-44 connecting block.
Mine is connected to Slinke IR zone 1 through three wires...not a standard 1/8" cable.


One thing to do (while initially testing) is to make sure you aren't splitting anything or using extensions. That can degrade and/or prevent the signal from getting through. Always simplify as much as possible. :)

[mcascio]

In my efforts to get the arrow keys working in Mainlobby I've realized I need to do a complete restructure of how MainLobby works and thinks.

My initial intent was to get an update out with the arrow keys working...but it wasn't going to be bug free unless I dug in deeper.

I spent the last week reprogramming MainLobby entirely from a clean slate. Rethinking how it should work and plan for not only arrow keys but also, appending scenes, parenting buttons to other buttons, macro builder and a lot of other cool stuff. There's still more thought process more so than programming that is still in the works.

Needless to say, it is taking much longer...but I can guarantee the end product will be simply amazing.

Stay tuned and I'll keep you informed of the progress.

Even the top menu bar is now revamped and is designed to allow for faster addition of new options and features.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml3_menu.gif

[Jay Wilson]

very sweet Mario!

Thinking here, if Flip has the slinke talking to girder, then does it matter at all what is in ML? All of the settings should be setup in Girder...not ML...or am I wrong in that thought?

[cpc]

Without reading every post in this thread, what the heck is mainlobby for exactly? Why would I need it and what does it do for me? Is it an interface for all video apps on an HTPC?

[mcascio]

Jay,

You are correct. If he's using Girder...no need to setup anything in MainLobby.

cpc,
Welcome to the thread. MainLobby can serve several purpsoses.

Most are using it to design a graphical front-end or kiosk for their home theater computer. It simplifies things for the end-user, significant other, family and friends. Rather than going to a typical WINDOWS start menu, you can have a much more attractive and simple to use GUI for you and other users.

Others are using it to create a cool-looking onscreen remote control.

MainLobby comes with over 50+ backgrounds skins and 300+ draggable buttons and you can import your own jpg images. It allows you to create a great looking interface with little graphic skills.

[Jay Wilson]

Mario, (or anyone)
New thought...

Could ML be loaded at startup to totally eliminate teh Windows desktop? On the Escient Powerplay, when it loads the system.ini file references a different file to load before Windows actually loads up...hence you never see teh Windows interface. Can we do that too? If so, any recommendations?

[fflip]

True, i have gone in and set everything up in girder to do what i want, I just figured the functionality is there within mainlobby why not use what is givin. I am using some splits from my zantech but i am not sure why that would cause an issue as girder has absolutly no problem accessing all of my devices that are using IR (Those that have rs232 I am using a direct serial connection) The new stuff looks great mario, keep up the good work. Thanks for all the help and a great product.

Jay the only thought i can say is to put mainlobby into your startup group and it will load up, depending on what else is in the startup it may take a sec. Escient is running windows 98 i believe, might be win 95 i forget, and basically all they did was replace the boot screen something that is fairly easy to do, and than they load the product in a similar fashion to load mainlobby in the startup group.

Flip

[pdermody]

Mario,

When the arrow keys work, you will have yet another new customer. Playing around with the demo it is quite impressive powerful software. Keep up the good work.

-pd

[PabloReiter]

Mario,

The new stuff looks great!!! Will you include the ability to do popup windows and unlimited 'Back' stack? These are the last two features for the ultimate user interface!

Thanks for the great work

Pablo

[mcascio]

Flip,
If it's working using Girder, then it should just be a configuration problem. Another good troubleshooting technique is to open SlinkeServ and see if the device is getting added as well as whether or not commands are being received by it.

pd,
Looking forward to having you onboard soon. :)

Pablo,
The 'Back' stack is working in one of my latest test versions, but it will need to be rewritten using the new scripts which are entirely rewritten. I may release one last version that has this feature as well as the bug fix for displaying ML on a second display.

I am planning for Pop-ups and a lot of other cool items. I'd recommend posting to Cinemar's forums MainLobby feature request section so things don't get lost in the shuffle.

http://www.caseserve.com/cinemar/forum.htm

My first goal is to get all the current functionality built into this new version with the arrow keys working and possibly the macro builder.

Then start throwing in all the bells and whistles.

[mcascio]

Hey Folks,

I spent the entire weekend on MainLobby updates. It's looking very good!

I haven't seen any updates to the MainLobby feature request on the Cinemar Forum. (http://www.caseserve.com/cinemar/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=16&sid=34fef16d60af48aa5659ace793eabbdd)

Must mean nobody wants any new features. :)

Be sure to post your requests so I can try to work them in during this major transition.

Be sure to include ideas that make the creation of Scenes easier too.

Some thoughts I have are to allow for New Projects, which would make it easier for creating more complex navigation. Kind of like a Site Map.
I may even be able to allow thumbnail views of all the Scenes in the project which would be pretty cool.

I'm also adding new keyboard shortcuts such as Ctrl + O for Open. The arrow keys are working pretty well especially when buttons are organized in a logical fashion. Other features I'd like to add are snap to grid, optional grid size, etc.

The biggest kicker would be multiple dragging of buttons. Really need to do a lot of fancy footwork to pull this off. While you can do this with the arrow keys, I'd like the user to be able to drag them just as easy with a mouse.

Appending Scenes to one another. Import a scene into a new layer.

Need more input from the user base. :D

[LastChoice]

Mario,

The new updates sound great! I can't wait to have my arrow keys back :) . The revised menu structure looks like a nice improvement as well. Thanks!

Since your asking for feature input I'll throw in my 2 cents. I would love to see the ability for the user to add textboxes of a specific height & width in order to accommodate long text strings. The current 'TextField Box' button is an odd size and not very flexible.

It would be great to section off buttons using a text label with a transparent background, add blocks of instructional text, or add titles to some scenes.

Also can someone explain how the existing 'textfield' and 'dynamictextfield' buttons work? I've tried quite a few scenarios and have not had any success getting these two buttons types to display any text at all, so I assumed they were placeholders for future functionality. If I am simply missing something please just let me know.

Thanks!

[mcascio]

LastChoice,

Scalable TextField boxes are being planned for but I'm not sure if they'll make it into the first major update.

Eventually, I envision a tools panel that allows the user to select a text cursor and drag out a text field box and type directly inside of it just like a paint program.

Since I've started from scratch I've been able to fix and repair a lot of other annoying bugs that were present in past versions. I want to make this as robust as possible.

It would be great to section off buttons using a text label with a transparent background, add blocks of instructional text, or add titles to some scenes.

Not sure if I'm following you.

I'm also adding a garbage so you can delete object(s) just by dragging them.

It's been a while, but the textfield should be working... the dynamic textfield was just a placeholder for future use.

[mcascio]

Hey Folks,

Been a while since I gave away something. :)

Here's a free Pronto 6000 color ccf for controling X10 lighting.
It can be downloaded from:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/freestuff.html

http://www.cinemaronline.com/images/pronto_tsu6000_x10.gif

Enjoy!

[LastChoice]

Mario,

I can't wait for the upcoming features. Keep up the good work.

Eventually, I envision a tools panel that allows the user to select a text cursor and drag out a text field box and type directly inside of it just like a paint program.
Woohoo! Perfect!

It would be great to section off buttons using a text label with a transparent background, add blocks of instructional text, or add titles to some scenes.
Sorry didn't mean to confuse you with this, I was just rambling about some of the design elements that I could add to my scenes if you implement the enhanced text field functionality.

It's been a while, but the textfield should be working... the dynamic textfield was just a placeholder for future use.
I can get the button named 'TextField Box' to display text, however I have not been able to successfully use the button named 'textfield'.

Thanks!

[mcascio]

LastChoice,

I probably won't have the Tools panel ready for the next release, but it's something I definitely want to add. I just don't want to get you too excited too early. :)

Thanks for the clarification.

[mcascio]

Hi everyone.

Development on MainLobby 3 is progressing very well.

The new snap-to-grid feature should make designing scenes a SNAP. ;)

You'll also be able to determine the grid size.

I may eventually get draggable align rulers in there so you can snap to those as well.

Initial tests for using Shift key combinations for locking the object to an axis while dragging is also looking pretty slick.

Work has also begun on the new MainLobby command language which will make adding new features and commands much easier.

[LastChoice]

Mario,

It's my understanding that the only support for displaying MainLobby on a monitor other than the Primary Display in a multiple monitor setup is through the use of the 'X Move' and 'Y Move' settings on the Display tab.

I can successfully move MainLobby from the Primary to the Secondary display by entering a value of 1184 into the 'X Move' field on the MainLobby 'Display' tab and pressing the 'Apply' button (my primary display is a Sony VW10HT with a resolution of 1184x666). But I am having problems getting the 'X Move' and 'Y Move' values to stick when I close and relaunch MainLobby. Each time I execute MainLobby it mistakenly appears on the Primary display until I open the Display settings tab and reapply the settings. The value of 1184 is correctly retained in the 'X Move' field between sessions, but until I manually press the 'Apply' button the setting does not take effect.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[mcascio]

Hi LastChoice,

This is a known bug in ML 2.25b. I've got an update if you want to send me your email address.

I haven't had time to recompile the downloadables for this small fix.

[Drech]

I seem to be having a problem using the 875P with dvd lobby 2 (I downloaded it in the last couple of days so should be 2.05c?)

Anyway, I'm using ML/DL on a progear w/DCOM. DCOM works as I can see the devices get added to slinkeserv when ML loads up. Also, I can see the Slink-e receiving commands as the green light flashes to amber when I press a button in ML/DL. Problem is the 875P just sits there. It doesn't seem to acknowledge any commands sent to it via s-link.

I have a 1/8" mono plug with a correct-length tip plugged into the Control-S Out port on the slink-e, which then plugs into the 875P Control-S In port. The switch on the changer is set to id 1.

DL is configured as recommended in the dvdlobby_help.txt (with both .cde files added to ML config). Port config in ML is 1 1 4080 for both devices.

Any ideas why the changer is ignoring the commands?

Thanks for any help, and thanks to Mario for such a cool suite of tools 8)

[mcascio]

Hi Drech,

Check to make sure you've added the exact same device names I used in the help files.

Open SlinkeServ on your computer with the Slinke connected and see if the devices have been added and that the Rec: number increments with each command you send.

All device files will need to be referenced from your Server. Even if the CDE file is saved on your Client computer, it will not work. It's a good idea to always use network references when loading the Device Files such as:
\\Main\Program_Files\Nirvis\Device_Files\Sony\dvdcs.cde


For controlling your Sony 875P changer, add the device files (included) to MainLobby's OPTION | SLINKE panel:
sonydvd, support\nirvis\Device Files\Sony\dvdcs.cde, 1, 1, 4080
sonydvdext, support\nirvis\Device Files\Sony\dvdEXcs.cde, 1, 1, 4080
Make sure your Sony changer is connected to the Slinke's Control-S port.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You currently must use the device names, "sonydvd" & "sonydvdext" and the device files provided, "dvdcs.cde" & "dvdEXcs.cde".

Let me know if this solves it.

[Drech]

All file names do indeed match.

For SlinkeServ, I can see the devices get added when ML loads, and they also get removed when ML exits. The Rec: number does increment (currently at 2896).

The .cde files are located on the server and I used network references to a share of the 'Device Files' directory under progra~1\Nirvis\.

The only difference from what you've posted is the device file paths in ML. Since they are network shares from the server, the ML device path is akin to what you've got near the top of your reply, not what's at the bottom.

On the Slink-e, the cable is connected to the Control-S Out port and goes to the S-Link (Control-S In) port on the 875P.

I also tried a different 1/8" mono cable to be sure the original wasn't bad. The changer still does not acknowledge any commands.

Thank for the quick reply 8)

[mcascio]

Drech,

It looks like the Slinke is receiving the info properly.

How 'bout trying to eliminate the ProGear from the picture?

Try getting communication from MainLobby on the Slinke Server computer. And even eliminate DVDLobby. Try adding a button, then EDIT it, and try selecting a slinke Device and command. Then use the Test command to see if that works.

[Drech]

I thought it might be a good idea to add device 'sonydvd' to the slinkeserv via slcmd and test that way.

So with slinkeserv running with 2 devices already loaded (sonydvd and sonydvdext, loaded from ML on the progear) I did the following:

slcmd adddev sonydvd <path to device file> 1 1 4080

This added a 3rd device to slinkeserv. Using slcmd command line I can successfully control the changer:

slcmd send sonydvd:stop etc...all works fine.

I'll go try what you suggest now and test ML locally on the server.

[Drech]

Ok, I installed ML on the server without DL at all. I just copied the dvdcs.cde and dvdEXcs.cde to the nirvis device files directory and locally referenced them in ML.

And it worked perfectly.

Maybe I'm tired, but I don't understand what that means.

So local to the server it works via ML or slcmd. From the progear, all seems well but no commands get executed.

I checked the event viewer to make sure there were no DCOM errors going on, but really that should only be permissions issues of which there are none.

I'm not clear why the commands fail from the progear but work locally. The only difference between the two is DCOM, which is working (the client does connect to the server without errors and slinkeserv does load the device files). At that point, all commands should be operating "locally".

[mcascio]

Hi Drech,

I agree. It should be working.

Like you, I'll take a fresh look after a nights rest. I've been grinding away all day so alot of things aren't making sense right now. :)

[mcascio]

Drech,

Were you able to resolve the problem?

Also, just wishing everyone a safe and happy Easter!

[mcascio]

Thought you folks might want to get a sneak peek at the new Home & Media Library that will be available soon. :)

http://www.webpromotion.com/cinemar/avsforum/ml2_screenshot35.jpg

All the images appear in your MainLobby library panel and you can drag, drop and assign properties to the button just like all the others.

[mdownard]

Originally posted by mcascio
[B]Thought you folks might want to get a sneak peek at the new Home & Media Library that will be available soon. :)

The man is a machine!


Mike

[mcascio]

Hi Everyone,

Just did some interesting tests with streaming video from a capture card into MainLobby.

THis is very cool. Perfect for live camera feeds and even television.

I'm still toying around, but it looks very promising.

[smoothtlk]

Mario,

I use a ATI 9700 AIW card with TV out. Is there a way to inset the ATI TV screen within a ML window? I would like to have this inset on my Tivo screen so I can see the channel I select. Another way, that I think you already said you would not support is for a transparant ML screen as an overlay window on top of the ATI TV screen.

While on a roll, the disapeering arrow cursor - it seems to be dependant on mouse movement to stay lit. Is there a way to also see last mouse click or mouse movement? I change channels by clicking on the "up" button. If I don't move the mouse, the cursor disapeers. Not critical, but would be nice.

Also, my mouse has a wheel. Would be neat to be able to assign the wheel movement to ML actions. So, roll forward and channels move up (multiple "UP" commands).

Have what I think is a bug - in the ML command window - I have duplicate entries of all choices (4 or so of each). I can't find the file that controls those choices. Should I see duplicate commands?

Any idea on why the Cinemar forums don't remember my login? I would use it more if I didn't have to login each time (to see what's new since list visit) as there isn't as much action there as in AVSForums.

ML 3.0 - hadn't heard you call it that until recently - is this a pay upgrade for ML 2.0 or don't you know yet?

Any update on the button grouping functionality (select one of the group and toggle the rest off)?

Any update on Homeseer tighter integration of reading device status changes?

Thanx.
David

[DerekH]

I have studied this thread and the Mainlobby users guide but have not been able to send a list of Slink-e commands to my attached devices.

I have Mainlobby 2 installed and am successfully controlling my Sony DVD changer through DVD Lobby. I created and loaded the device files for my receiver and front projector into Mainlobby. I have successfully tested each command to my receiver and projector one command at a time. What I have not been able to figure out is how do I associate a list of 1 receiver and 15 projector commands to the same button that launches DVD Lobby. The only command that works for me is the last one on the list. I have not figured out how to save the list of commands. Is there a way to view my list of saved commands?

I would appreciate input from anyone who has successfully accomplished this.

Thanks,

Derek

[Jay Wilson]

As of right now, you would have to use a batch file to send multiple commands. Presently ML only allows one command executed to the slinke for a button press. In the next version, I think Mario is going to have a macro builder implemented. With the macro builder, you should be able to send as many commands as you need.

[STINGGRAY]

When I start ML it is so slow I don't even want to set it up. Is this the norm or is it the pro-gear? Ether way is there a way to speed it back up.

[mcascio]

Hi David,

I use a ATI 9700 AIW card with TV out. Is there a way to inset the ATI TV screen within a ML window?

Does the ATI show up under your list of capture cards? IF so, it may be possible.

While on a roll, the disapeering arrow cursor - it seems to be dependant on mouse movement to stay lit. Is there a way to also see last mouse click or mouse movement? I change channels by clicking on the "up" button. If I don't move the mouse, the cursor disapeers. Not critical, but would be nice.

I'll be adding more options for the mouse in Ver 3.

Also, my mouse has a wheel. Would be neat to be able to assign the wheel movement to ML actions. So, roll forward and channels move up (multiple "UP" commands).

I'll eventually look into the wheel, but it's currently not too high on the list.

Have what I think is a bug - in the ML command window - I have duplicate entries of all choices (4 or so of each). I can't find the file that controls those choices. Should I see duplicate commands?

This bug was introduced in the last version update. It doesn't affect anything other than adding duplicate commands so it probably won't get fixed before Ver 3.

Any idea on why the Cinemar forums don't remember my login? I would use it more if I didn't have to login each time (to see what's new since list visit) as there isn't as much action there as in AVSForums.

John Case is managing the forum and I had asked him the same thing, but unfortunately he couldn't figure it out. If anyone has more experience and can help troubleshoot, he'd be more than happy to hear a possible solution.

ML 3.0 - hadn't heard you call it that until recently - is this a pay upgrade for ML 2.0 or don't you know yet?

Yup - ML 3.0 is a complete rewrite. Started with a clean slate this time. It will blow away the current version and feature set. I'm taking my time on this one so it may be a while. I want to cover a lot of bases I didn't in the first two versions.

My goal is to release an update to the current version of MainLobby with support for the USB-UIRT. It really expands what MainLobby can do and makes it really easy to interface with IR devices. Talk about a killer Pronto remote! Learn and Blast IR from your computer or tablet.

Any update on the button grouping functionality (select one of the group and toggle the rest off)?

Working on this one for incorporation into ML 3.

Any update on Homeseer tighter integration of reading device status changes?

I've had some talks with some other programmers in regards to integration, but haven't had a chance to review it further.


DerekH,

You could create a batch file to send multiple IR commands.
That's probably the easiest work around until a macro builder is available in ML.

STINGRAY,
Make sure you limit the animation within your Scenes. Static buttons shouldn't be a problem on your ProGear. I don't recommend editing or creating Scenes on the ProGear either. That can be slow too.

[Sbmocp]

I just bought a TIRA-1 USB IR transmitter/receiver from Home Electronics. It's a good, inexpensive way to add IR capabilities to an HTPC. Girder supports it, and I'll be using Girder with the HTPC and MainLobby. Would you have to add support for this, or since Girder communicates with it, will that be sufficient?

[DueN]

Umm... yeah. Support for Tira-1 would be good. ;)

[mitchem]

Sbmocp,

I just bought a TIRA-1 USB IR transmitter/receiver from Home Electronics. It's a good, inexpensive way to add IR capabilities to an HTPC. Girder supports it, and I'll be using Girder with the HTPC and MainLobby. Would you have to add support for this, or since Girder communicates with it, will that be sufficient?

I just sent Mario code to support the USBUIRT natively in ML. This will probably find it's way into one of the ML2.x releases and will definitely be in ML 3.x. As far as the TIRA-1 goes, for now you'll need to talk to it via Girder. If an API is available for it, I can probably write the required ActiveX control so that Mario can support it in ML. It would be really nice if an ActiveX control was already available from the manufacturer, but unfortunately I didn't see anything about that on the website :(

Terrence Mitchem

[RonX]

Maybe this could help:

Ira/tira RS-232 protocol (http://*********-electro.com/protocol.pdf)

[mzemina]

Progear seems to be the panel of choice (even though it is harder, not impossible, to purchase due to not being manufactured now) for MainLobby but now the ViewSonic airpanel V100p is out and available and a nice product. But can the Lobby products now (or with a future version) run on Windows CE or PocketPC devices natively?

The ViewSonic device is closely priced to the Progear (which you have to pick up through ebay or another closeout source) it would seem to be a better direction to move.

Mike Zemina

[Sbmocp]

Originally posted by RonX
Maybe this could help:

Ira/tira RS-232 protocol (http://*********-electro.com/protocol.pdf)

Unfortunately, the link doesn't work--even if you substitute the proper info for the "forum edited" address.

Even visiting the home-electro page doesn't turn up a link to a spec document. However, the funny thing is, their links page has a link to Cinemar.

They also state on the site that their controller works with the settings for IRMAN and UIR.

[pdermody]

Mario,

Sounds like 3.0 will be the release to wait for if I need the arrow key support? Any random guess on when that will be out for testing?

-pd

[RonX]

Originally posted by Sbmocp
Unfortunately, the link doesn't work--even if you substitute the proper info for the "forum edited" address.

Even visiting the home-electro page doesn't turn up a link to a spec document. However, the funny thing is, their links page has a link to Cinemar.

They also state on the site that their controller works with the settings for IRMAN and UIR.

I don't know why the forum software replace the word "home" in URLs with "*********".

It works, substitute ********* in the address with the word "home", I just checked the link and it works.

[KidSquid]

Hello all –

I am rapidly believing ML is the solution that I am looking for! I have downloaded a demo version from Mario and have been playing around with the features and am truly amazed at the quality of graphics and design that ML offers….it makes me (a graphically challenged member of society) look like an artisian…

With that said I have a couple of questions to make sure I get all my ducks in a row before I make the purchase.

Here’s what I’m looking to do:

I want to create my own version of a Crestron/AMX system…nice touch pad…pretty graphics…etc. Initially I want to control my HT components via IR and am looking to add the new Sony 875p changer to the mix as well (DVD Lobby sold me on this)…Latter down the line add some X-10 controls for lighting and environmental control.

With that said here are my questions.

1. It looks like I will need to purchase the software from Mario (ML Suite) and a SLINK-E correct (this will allow for both IR control and the Sony Serial type control on the 875p…correct?

2. Does the SLINK-E come with a IR blaster or do I need to order from Zantech?

3. One of the things I want to do (and I understand ML can’t currently do) is set up macros for switching from DVD to Satellite to Tivo…etc….is there a workaround available to do this currently or do I need to wait for ver 3

4. After reading through all 35+ pages of the forum….I see that ver 3 is going to support the newer USB IR blasters…when is ver 3 scheduled for release?

5. For DL do I need to enter all my DVD’s into DVD profiler?

6. If I want to add additional panels throughout the house at a later date..is this do-able with ML? And if so would I need any additional software to relay the commands?


Sorry for the long post….I think I have found the answer to my dilemma and want to insure I check out the details before I plunge in.


Thanks,

Squid

[mcascio]

Originally posted by pdermody
Mario,

Sounds like 3.0 will be the release to wait for if I need the arrow key support? Any random guess on when that will be out for testing?

-pd

Pd,

No release date has been set yet. It is going to take some serious time though given all the updates and bug fixes I'm working on. Unfortunately fixing the arrow keys in the current version led me to rewriting the entire way the software works and handles objects/buttons.

I'm very confident the wait will be well worth it. You'll still be able to utilize Version 2.25 scenes.

Sorry guys for my absence. Still try to get my main system back up and running like normal.

Kid Squid,
1. It looks like I will need to purchase the software from Mario (ML Suite) and a SLINK-E correct (this will allow for both IR control and the Sony Serial type control on the 875p…correct?

You'll need the Slinke which will control the Sony changer via Control-S. The 875p doesn't have a serial port.


2. Does the SLINK-E come with a IR blaster or do I need to order from Zantech?

The Slinke isn't an IR Blaster, although you can pass IR through it using a remote and pointing at it, which then passes through to an attached IR emitter.

3. One of the things I want to do (and I understand ML can’t currently do) is set up macros for switching from DVD to Satellite to Tivo…etc….is there a workaround available to do this currently or do I need to wait for ver 3

You can send multiple slinke commands from one button, for instance:
dvd:stop tv:power_off vcr:power_off

You would have a problem though with something like:
dvd:power_on dvd:play

Unfortunately the Slinke doesn't have a builtin pause feature. So once that's builtin to MainLobby you'll be able to add the pause. However, you could also do it with batch files.

4. After reading through all 35+ pages of the forum….I see that ver 3 is going to support the newer USB IR blasters…when is ver 3 scheduled for release?

See above. It's hard to pinpoint a date right now as I'm not sure which features will make it into the first release. Everything I'm doing is breaking new ground and it's hard to determine the amount of time it will take. Consider the arrow keys for example, sounds like an easy thing to do, but I've probably logged over 60 hours just on that.

5. For DL do I need to enter all my DVD’s into DVD profiler?
Currently yes. Although you could edit an XML file if you have some experience. A builtin editor is planned though.

6. If I want to add additional panels throughout the house at a later date..is this do-able with ML? And if so would I need any additional software to relay the commands?

A thin client is in the very early stages so I'm still trying to decide what avenue to approach. As long as the computer is running an OS like Win98 or higher you can run MainLobby on it. Check out Nobu which makes some compact touch screen computers that can be built into the wall. Can't track down the url since I haven't repaired my bookmarks yet.

Hope this helps.

[KidSquid]

Thanks Mario for all of the info....

But have a couple more.....

1. So if I can send multiple IR commands to the SLINK-E could I have a logo button of VH-1 and send 3-3-5-Enter to switch the channel to VH-1?

2. So there is an attached IR Emitter on the SLINK-E...so if I wanted to put the SLINK-E in a closet...I would need to plug in an emitter to it....and if so does one come with it?

3. You mentioned I could accomplish some of the multiple commands with batch files....are these the good 'ole MS-DOS batch files??? and if so....where do I find a reference to the syntax.


Sorry for all of the questions....just really want to make sure I have all of the tools together beofre I start.

Sid

[mcascio]

Hi Sid,

1. So if I can send multiple IR commands to the SLINK-E could I have a logo button of VH-1 and send 3-3-5-Enter to switch the channel to VH-1?

I doubt it would work 100% without a pause in between the commands, but you could give it a shot. The IR might be sent too fast. Again the batch file would solve the problem for now.

2. So there is an attached IR Emitter on the SLINK-E...so if I wanted to put the SLINK-E in a closet...I would need to plug in an emitter to it....and if so does one come with it?

The Slinke comes with 1 IR emitter. You'll need a Xantech Connecting Block and power supply (789-44) if you want to add additional IR emitters.

3. You mentioned I could accomplish some of the multiple commands with batch files....are these the good 'ole MS-DOS batch files??? and if so....where do I find a reference to the syntax.

You'll find some batch file syntax located at the bottom of this url as well as a batch file WAIT program that you'll find helpful.
http://www.cinemaronline.com/dvdlobby.faq.html

[KidSquid]

Mario (or anyone else that might know) -

What happened to TV Lobby??

As I was reading through all of the posts...I saw this addition and all of the possibilities...I know a timed beta was released...but now nothing..

Can you shed some light ?

Thanks,

Squid

[mcascio]

Squid,

It's been a while since I spoke with Dan who was working on TVLobby.

I know he got pretty busy with some other things and I have a pretty full plate as well.

I'll try and touch base with him and see if he can release another timed release. I'm just not ready for the integration just yet.

[mcascio]

Hey Everyone,

Thought some of you might be interested in a brand new ProGear I just put up on eBay. I currently own 3 of them and will be parting with one.
The auction also includes the entire Lobby Suite with no reserve.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2729675828&ssPageName=ADME:B:LC:US:1

[mcascio]

Every now and then I need a break from everything.

Here's a background skin I've been twiddling with.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot37.jpg

[mcascio]

A recent inquiry prompted me to create this simple diagram showing how a Slinke, ProGear (tablet), HTPC and your stereo equipment are connected. I thought some other newbies would find it useful.

[KidSquid]

Mario -

There's nothing posted ?????

[mcascio]

Oops.

[ROBERT HUNZEKER]

Mario, just ordered your software with a slink-e and have a question about your diagram. I am going to be using a progear talking to a HTPC wit hthe slink-e attached to it. Will I get better response on the progear setting it up as your diagram shows running the software on the progear or running the software on the HTPC and using the progear as a thin client using XP's remote desktop.

thanks

Bob H.

[mcascio]

Hi Bob,

Thanks for your support.

That's a great question. One which I'm not sure of the answer.

I think the speed of the commands being sent through the Slinke will be about the same either way...or at least unnoticable to the user.
The difference, if there is any, would probably be in screen refreshing while changing scenes.

If I had to guess, I would say running ML locally on the ProGear would be faster, but I could be wrong.

Even on faster systems running remote desktop, I do see a staggerness to the updates. But I'm not sure if this would also be true of a slower 400mhz system like the ProGear.

Can anyone else lend any thoughts to this?

[PabloReiter]

You will get much better response time as an RDP client rather than running it on the Progear. instant response and screen changes as opposed to 1-3 second delay per click. The only problem is that with XP Pro, the desktop is locked out while somebody is using RDP into the machine. You need .net server 2003 with terminal services client to use the same machine for multiple uses. This is what I am using.

Hope this helps

Pablo

[Wysocki]

The real advantage of running ML on the Progear instead of the HTPC is that while playing a dvd, you still have ML displaying on the Progear and can use it as a remote. Two separate displays make more sense than the same display on two devices.

[ROBERT HUNZEKER]

Wysocki, I'm not worried about that since my HTPC is only used for remote control and my hipix. My DVD's are where they belong, in 2 Sony 875 changers. I'm way too lazy to get up everytime I want to watch another movie. :)

Pablo, thanks for the info I'll set it up with RDP, no problem about desktop machine being locked since I wont be using it apart from with the progear

Bob H.

[mzemina]

Originally posted by PabloReiter
You will get much better response time as an RDP client rather than running it on the Progear. instant response and screen changes as opposed to 1-3 second delay per click. The only problem is that with XP Pro, the desktop is locked out while somebody is using RDP into the machine. You need .net server 2003 with terminal services client to use the same machine for multiple uses. This is what I am using.


What CPU & speed are you using, memory size? Does any specific video card make a difference? Did you get rid of any services to help out with performance? Any tweaking you can share? Intrigued minds would like to know.

MikeZ

[PabloReiter]

Just a regular 800Mhz server running .net server over an 802.11 network. No tweaking whatsoever. The video card does not come into play at all as all of the graphics display on the progear.

Enjoy

Pablo

[ROBERT HUNZEKER]

MikeZ, check out http://www.keyesfamily.org/ProGear for a great FAQ on running XP on the progear and striping services for better performance.

Bob H.

[mzemina]

Originally posted by ROBERT HUNZEKER
MikeZ, check out http://www.keyesfamily.org/ProGear for a great FAQ on running XP on the progear and striping services for better performance.
Bob H.

Thanks Bob! I'm thinking of going the route of the RDP client with a ViewSonic SmartDisplay unless someone can really talk me out of it.

Mike

[dreicher]

All,

I'm looking for someone or multiple people to continue where I left off with some programs I was working on a LONG time ago. They have pretty much remained untouched since there initial "launch" phase. I honestly just don't have the time to work on them any further. I wish I did.

Attached to this post you will find a .zip copy of TVLobby without the date restriction and it's source. There is also an updated version of XMLTV in there.

Dan

[dreicher]

Okay, apparently it's too big. I would like to post the .swf and source (.fla) for TVLobby, MediaJukebox link (aka MusicLobby) and the CasinoLobby suite. I'll try putting them up on the Cinemar Forum.

Dan

[dreicher]

Okay, no love there either. I posted them on the web for download.

TVLobby (http://66.93.18.50/mainlobby/tvlobby.zip)

Media Jukebox Link aka MusicLobby (http://66.93.18.50/mainlobby/mjlink.zip)

CasinoLobby (http://66.93.18.50/mainlobby/casinolobby.zip)

Hope that works.

Dan

[Phat Phreddy]

What luck... I just did a search on Music Lobby to see if anything had developed and Bang... This post...

[smoothtlk]

Anyone have some instructions on how to implement MusicLobby?
I searched all Dan's posts and for MusicLobby and can't find a lick.

I downloaded and installed Media Jukebox 8.0 hoping that MuLobby somehow finds it, but no luck.

thanx.

[dreicher]

Smoothtlk,

MusicLobby is setup identically to Glissando. It's been a while, but you need to install the WebRemote plug-in for Media Jukebox and set the port in MJ and the MusicLobby ini file. Hope that helps.

Dan

[Wysocki]

smoothtlk:
When you figure out what driecher means by all that, could you translate it for us technically challenged types?