MainLobby Version 2.0 - A Sneak Peek

[smoothtlk]

Ok, got it working (MusicLobby)!

To keep things simple, I have loaded everything on one desktop (MainLobby - including the MusicLobby files, MediaJukebox, WebRemote plugin)

First, install Media Jukebox (I installed the demo version) http://www.mediajukebox.com/mediajukebox/
In the process of the install, find your music directory and search for songs.
Make sure you can play songs from the standard MJ UI.

I then added the WebRemote plugin. First I downloaded the latest from the Media Jukebox plugin list. This was found to be a mistake. Looking in the Gissando AVForum thread, it looks like the older plugin works. I am not sure if you have to add the latest and then change the .dll to the older.

So, download Gissando:
http://www.syrinx.net/files/Glissando.0.5.2a.zip
You have to replace the WebRemote plugin (Mediajukebox/Plugins directory) with an older version that Glissando uses and is in the Glissando zip file.
int_WebRemote.dll is the file name. I renamed the latest to int_WebRemote_New.dll to back it up.

EDIT: Hmmm, installed MJ on my server and am using the latest webremote plugin, seems to work fine. Don't know what I did different...

Configure the plugin by launching Media Jukebox and clicking on the Plugin / WebRemote tree. I used port 8080.

Go to a webpage and enter http://localhost:8080
You should see a webpage open and a plain UI that allows you to remotely control Media Jukebox. If you get to this step, then the plugin should be setup OK. It looks like the newer plugin has Login / Password which I am wondering if this is what is breaking MusicLobby and Glissando from using the latest plugin...

Then copy the mjlink.swf that Dan graciously provides to the /MainLobby/BackgroundFX directory.

Copy the mjlink.ini file to the /MainLobby directory (same directory that you have MainLobby.exe in)

Edit the mjlink.ini file in textpad or notepad - Here's my edits: serverDomain=192.168.0.5&serverPort=8080&skin=mjlink&done=true
Note the port number must match the port number that you setup in WebRemote.

Open MainLobby and create a new MusicLobby.mls page and use mjlink.swf as your BackgroundFX entry. Select a background skin as well. Save with a new name this new .mls screen (I used MusicLobby.mls).

Open your MainLobby "Home Page" .mls and add a new button to launch your MusicLobby.mls screen.

You should see the MusicLobby screen populated with your music list!

Have fun!
thank you Dan for your contributions. Hopefully this post will take some load off of you!

David

[STINGGRAY]

For ML what is min. speed the CPU should be? Or what kind of CPU 386, 486, P, PII, PIII? I have the pro-gear and i'm not happy too slow. I'm looking at the Stylistic 500, 1000, 1200, 2300, 3400. Which one(s) are to slow? :confused:

[lido]

...

Anyone have music lobby using an Audiophile 24/96? The volume control doesn't seem to be functional... Since we have the source, perhaps those that are adept at flash could take a look at this? I know this was/is a problem with Glissando as well...

-L

[ROBERT HUNZEKER]

Stingray, forget all but the 3400.

500 = 486-50
510 = 486-100
1000 = 486-100
1200 = Pentium 120
1600 = Pentium 166
LT = Pentium 233
2300 = Pentium 233
3400 = Pentium3 400

Bob H.

[Wysocki]

Lido:
I have an Audiophile 24/96 and my volume level doesn't work either. Actually, I've given up on controlling volume on the pc and just adjust it via the amps. I wish there was a GOOD way of telling Windows that my MP3's should play back at a volume level independant of the other WAV sounds that Windows plays.

smoothtlk:
THANKS for the help getting Musiclobby going! I was able to use the Webremote plugin from the website (with no name or password). Now I have to figure out what's going on in that interface, what some of the various buttons do, and then how I can tweak it. If you (or anyone else) make any changes / enhancements to it, be sure to keep us posted here.

[Sbmocp]

I started playing with my copy of MainLobby yesterday. To my dismay, it seems that everything (backgrounds, gadjets) is in 1024x768 scale. Since I'm running a TV output with 800x600 maximum, this won't work. Looking on Cinemar's website yielded two free 800x600 backgrounds. That's it.

Has anyone gotten a set of 800x600 backgrounds/gadjets/etc. for use with their MainLobby they'd be willing to share?

[dreicher]

Sbmocp,

Choose any of the 1024x768 backgrounds and to the right of the background text box in the options dialog - set the scale to 79%.

Dan

[mcascio]

I'm back. :)

Hi folks. Been out of the scene for a while. I have been picking up where Dan left off with MusicLobby. I hope to have some screenshots of the polished interface by end of week.

Has anyone experienced crashing of MediaJukebox?

I believe it may be a result of unique characters either in the title or in the tags themselves.

[schud]

So what about the arrow keys in Main Lobby? :(

Is it a lost cause?

[Phat Phreddy]

Mario, I have found the newer WebRemote to be less stable than the old plug in veriaty...

For this reason I still use the old 'plug in' version but the easy thing you can do is set them both up on different ports... Have one on 8080 and one on 8081... see if one or both crashes on the same items...

I just posted in the MusicLobby thread that I cannot get a link between ML (MusicLobby) and MC... Glissando connects fine so the server is working..

[mcascio]

Hi David,

As I mentioned before, due to the massive overhaul needed to make arrow keys work properly, it won't be working til version 3.

It's amazing how something that seems so simple can be so darn complicated. :(

PP,

I did some more testing using MediaJukebox and the newer Webremote plugin. My guess is that it's funky characters that are causing the crash. I haven't been able to isolate the problem.

I do have a link working between MusicLobby and J River's MediaCenter.

Try using the IP address - something like 192.168.1.101 although the name of your system should work I would imagine.

[mcascio]

I'm looking for input and was just wondering what you folks would want to see in MainLobby 3 as far as Client/Server setup would go.

Do you want the ability to change a Scene on one system from another?
Launch programs on another computer without using Girder?

If anyone has a particular setup where they can explain what they wish MainLobby could do, that would be great.

I'm hoping for more input from users as far as how they want to use the system.

As always - thanks.

[Jay Wilson]

Do you really want me to answer that? :D

Serial control? please? You said launch without Girder! ;)

[PabloReiter]

Mario,

The ability for a server to change the scene on a client or change dynamically the content of a scene would be great! If I turn on the receiver manually and select CD, the remote should change to the CD scene...

Thanks!!!

[mcascio]

Hey Jay,

I'll be testing serial control, among a gizzilion other things, to see how easily it's possible to add that natively into MainLobby.
While I don't plan to ever replace or replicate all the things Girder can do, I thought a simple to implement feature would be the ability to launch a program on another computer just by browsing for it. Rather than creating a Girder event. I'm also hoping I can simulate keypressing in those programs to make it even easier for the novice user.

Pablo,
That may be tough and something integrated with 2-way control when that becomes available. The device would then obviously need to be connected via serial port. Those type of things should be in place though once 2way is available.

[PabloReiter]

Mario,

I dont think you need to concern yourself about how the device is attached, u just need a public API with events that are published by ML as things happen and a way to receive commands to perform from the outside.

Just my 2c

Pablo

[jdark]

Mario,
I'm building my first HTPC right now and I've been looking for a GUI to use with it. My question is, why is Mainlobby better, or different, than some of the other software out there doing the same thing? For instance My HTPC (http://www.myhtpc.net/), which is free? What are some of the main things that Mainlobby offers that sets it apart from the others? Thanks.

[Nam Nguyen]

Bought ML for a couple of days already and am very disappointed that arrow nav are broken and I'll have to wait for V 3.0 ! (On top of that I've to learn Girder...)

I author DVD professionally for a living using very hi-end gears (about 125k per rig). I'm not a programmer but arrows config is fairly straightforward and flexible w/ DVD.

Let me know how I can help w/ the arrows.

Wish list:
- 9pin serial control
- remote trigger via Ethernet to set 2 or more XP boxes playing in sync
- no ML intro screen
- touchscreen 1st display sends output to 2nd display

[mcascio]

Hi jdark,

I haven't used any of the other programs out there - if I did that I wouldn't get any programming done. :)

AFAIK, MainLobby is the only program that's actually two programs in one. MainLobby provides a WYSIWYG design interface that allows you to create exactly the screens you want and not what the software developer wants you to see. It comes with a large library of professionally designed buttons that can be dragged and drapped on-screen, scaled, relabeled, assigned a variety of commands, etc.

It also comes with over 50 professionally designed background skins well worth the price of admission alone. :)

Try pricing out background imagery on some of the stock imagery sites and you'll see that many starting prices for an image is around $40. Multiple that by 50 images - which are actually taylored toward htpc and the others are not.

MainLobby also has an open architecture so you can include your own flash creations and buttons.

MainLobby is not free because it occupies my life. :) Day and night. This has it's advantages. You can rest assure I won't be dumping the project after you've set up your whole system because I want to take up canoeing , go back to school, or it just takes up too much of my personal time.

Nam,
I know - the arrow keys are a labor of love for me. I've put a lot of time into making them work. Believe me. It's gone through several other programmers too. My goal was to make it so the user didn't have to define which way an arrow key press will set focus like many of the DVD programs require. While that may seem like a practical solution, I think many of the users don't want to spend the time doing it. Especially when users are moving buttons around constantly.

Girder is really a powerful program. Although it is not required, it does let you do some pretty neat stuff.

Not sure what you mean by 2 or more XP boxes playing in sync? Do you mean play music in two different zones?

MainLobby 3 will probably allow for branding of the ML loading screen, but it does serve a purpose to initialize variables prior to loading the first scene.

Can you elaborate on your touchscreen idea?

[Wysocki]

Mario:
Thanks for picking up the ball on Musiclobby, I can't wait to see what you do with it. I'd like more flexibility in customizing the interface (buttons, placement, fonts) as well as integrating my cd/mp3 collections. I'm running Music Jukebox for the mp3's and CDJ for the cd changer. I also use Dish digital audio channels and wish there was some way of picking up program information from that source and then integrating ALL the audio into one, easy to use interface.

Re: enhancements for ver.3 client/server features:
I'd like to see something that could speed up the interface on my slow Progear. Changing scenes takes 3-10 seconds and even a small sound file attached to a button takes a second to play when the button is clicked. Is there any way to "compile" or preprocess the app? I wonder if there's any way to run Win98 so that there's less overhead?

[dguns]

ML looks awesome.

Can it work with a remote control only? (eg. ATI Remote wonder).

Thanks!

[dreicher]

I need 2-3 people who are looking for serial control and are currently using a Girder/MainLobby setup to help me out on developing "a better way". I'll do all the work, I just need some communication on what is desired and testing of the end result. Please PM if you'd like to help a brother in need.

Dan

[dreicher]

dguns,

You can use the "mouse" on the ATI or assign hotkeys to buttons that are available on the ATI. So, yes - it can be done.

Dan

[jdark]

Mario,
I noticed on your site that as well as selling Mainlobby, you also offer DVDlobby and CDlobby. My question is, if I only purchase Mainlobby, when I want to watch a movie and press the dvd button within Mainlobby will it then pull up my default dvd software, or does it have a dvd player within Mainlobby? Same question for music. The obvious answer would be that dvdlobby is your dvd software, however after reading the description I thought it could just be more high-end software? Just wondering if I need the suite or if just Mainlobby would be enough for my needs. One last question, if I were to purchase Mainlobby today, and version 3.0 comes out next week, am I going to have to purchase the new version or is it a free upgrade? In other words, is version 3.0 going to come out soon enough to wait?

Thanks,
-Jonathan-

[mcascio]

Hi Jonathan,

DVDLobby is not a dvd software player like TheaterTek or Zoom Player. It's more of a dvd cataloging and launching software. It doesn't have any builtin player.

From MainLobby, you can assign any application or dvd software player you desire to the button. Or you could assign it to load DVDLobby Pro then search for your desired movie and have it automatically launch the movie by clicking on the movie poster.

DVDLobby is in no way required to watch movies.

MainLobby 3.0 is still a ways away. MainLobby 3.0 will be a paid upgrade since it's a major - and I mean major update. Minor updates are always free and there are always quite a few of them.

[mcascio]

Ok - sometimes code gets boring.

Here's the first in a long line of cool animated backgroundFX available from Cinemar. The image below represents a static version. Click the link below to see it animated online. It's pretty cool - a bouncing ball. Adds a little more interest to the typical static interface.
http://www.cinemaronline.com/mainlobbybackgroundfx.html

You can download a free watermarked sample from the website as well.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/1366x768_backgroundfx01.jpg

This was created at 1366x768 so it looks very sharp on the big screen. It also scales automatically to any 16:9 display. It also works well on some larger 4:3 displays > than 1024x768.

As usual, I'm always interested in feedback.

[hjackson]

Hi Mario. My set-up is MainLobby functioning as my remote control on a ProGear. I also use a Slink-e. For my volume control buttons, I have to repeatedly press the buttons to adjust the level. Is there a way to have the button "stay on" as you press it rather than perform multiple taps to change the level?

hjackson

[mcascio]

Hi hjackson,

I plan to have this feature in ML3. (AutoRepeat I believe is what you mean - correct?)

Also, I know some of you had asked a while back about HomeSeer control from MainLobby. There were a few options out there, but this latest update seems to be the best solution.

I Just stopped out at the HomeSeer website and it looks like they have a new command line control software:
ftp://homeseer.com/pub/hsc.zip

What does this mean?

You can control Homeseer directly from MainLobby (lighting, IR, trigger events) from the Application/Media line of the button properites panel.


Here's their help file that comes with the download:
hsc [parameters]

Where the parameters are:

-x hcdc action p1 p2 p3

This will send an X10 command like:

hsc -x b2 on
hsc -x b2+3+4 off
hsc -x b3 dim 50
hsc -x b3 extended 20 49 (sets an LM14A or levition switch to 20%)

-e "event name"

Forces the trigger of an event like:

hsc -e "night time"

-s "speak text"

Will speak the given text like:

hsc -s "hello I am talking"

-l start|stop

Stops and starts voice recognition

To start HomeSeer listening:

hsc -l start

To stop HomeSeer listening:

hsc -l stop

-r command

Sends an infared command. The command is a string of commands that have been defined in HomeSeer. If you wanted to turn the device TV ON, then the command would be:

hsc -r tv,on

-----

Here's how it would be used within the Application/Media line of your button properties:
C:\Program Files\Homeseer\hsc\hsc.exe, -e myEvent

You'll want to provide a direct path to your hsc.exe file you download from their webiste. The syntax is also slightly difference when sending the info from MainLobby. You'll notice the comma and no quotation marks.

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
Thanx for the HS update. That covers sending commands to ML, what about seeing status updates from HS from within ML?
An example is that my Napco alarm is serial connnected to my HS server. When a door opens, HS sees it. Triggers are set within HS to occur on that event. It would be great if a ML page could keep updated on the status of a "device".

Any thoughts of some new flash buttons that can represent typical HS functions?

Example: flood light, desk light, flourescent light, coffee pot, window, door, smoke, heater, a PC, movement, bell, sprinkler, fan, garage door, etc.
Multiple states (open / closed, on / off, sound / quiet). Dim changes.

If one has a gif file for devices, how easy is it to convert to a flash image? I know you support custom buttons but flash is such a bear to figure out step one. I have the software, and have attempted 5 or 6 times but get frustrated and bail. Is there a tutorial to create buttons for ML? Even if I have the basic procedure, I can probably figure out the clicks.

Have you had any discussion with Gary of HSFlash for Homeseer plugin?

Thanx again for the update. I will use some of your suggestions and post a screenshot and results.
David

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
The hsc.exe works fine if ML is on the HS server. My problem is that I run ML on a client, HS on the server. I can't figure out how to make a direct path to the hsc.exe file on the HS server. I have tried mapping a local client drive to the HS directory on the server, but that just opens another instance of HS on the client (?). The client is where I do HS development, so I have HS loaded there too.

This is why historically I have used Girder from client to Server to invoke a .vbs script to operate HS. I guess I can use command line in Girder instead of the .vbs scripts. Gotta play with this to see if it's easier to manage.

sigh.... wish ML had a plugin for HS!

Thanx for keeping it in mind!
David

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
ML Girder setup when used in conjunction with the HS Command Line .exe.

Directions:
Create a new directory called HSC in the Homeseer root.
Download the HSC.zip file from Homeseer (see Mario's link above).
Extract to the new HSC directory.
In Girder create a new Command. Learn Event IES.
Type your event name eg: "RampLightsOn"
Click on the Command Name in the left side of Girder.
Click on OS tab, then Execute from the drop down.
Type the path of the hsc.exe file eg: c:\program files\homeseer\hsc\hsc.exe
In the Step Size box, type the command eg: "-x L1 on".
Hit the Accept button.
Save the .gml file

Go into ML and create a new button.
Assign the button to IES (click the button).
type "RampLightsOn" (from example above) in the Girder Events box.


This replaces the .vbs file previously discussed in this thread. This is simpler. It is also available from a ML client to operate a HS command (or Event) on the server.

Thanx Mario for the heads up!

6/30/03 pic edited as it couldn't be viewed.

[Wysocki]

smoothtlk,
Your screenshot image is unreadable on my system. Did you compress it a bunch or did the upload distort it?

[smoothtlk]

I deleted the pic because it wasn't readable. I tried to upload three times and each time it gets distorted.
It was a picture of Girder with the example.
If anyone has a question, post it.

[mcascio]

Just curious what resolution everyone is using to develop their interfaces using MainLobby?

Not the resolution they are displaying their final output.

Just wondering if I can increase to a recommend 1024x768 design area instead of 848x480 currently used.

[mcascio]

BTW smoothtlk,

Thanks for extra info on using Girder with HomeSeer!

[schud]

Originally posted by mcascio
Just curious what resolution everyone is using to develop their interfaces using MainLobby?

Not the resolution they are displaying their final output.

Just wondering if I can increase to a recommend 1024x768 design area instead of 848x480 currently used.

Develop at 800X600
Display at 800X600

[FLingier]

I installed tvlobby and created a scene with it. I allready had xmltv installed and configured so updated my script to put the tv.xml in the mainlobby folder for tvlobby to find it.

when I generate a listing using tv_grab_be, tvlobby shows nothing although the .xml file seems ok and is about 500k. when I use tv_grab_nl i only get 1 channel listed altough the .xml contains 5 channels....

Anybody know what's going on? If added the be.xml in case somebody wants to try it:)

Filip

[dreicher]

Filip,

Using your file (be.xml) the first problem I noticed right off the bat was the <tv> tag. Properly formatted XML would put that on a single line, so change:

<tv generator-info-name="based on the Script by Bart Heremans

and extended by Watteel Pascal (piwi3910)">

to:

<tv generator-info-name="based on the Script by Bart Heremans and extended by Watteel Pascal (piwi3910)"> (all one line)

and the channels, at least, show up on the left. I'm gonna dig in a bit more and see what is causing the programs to not show up.

Dan

[dreicher]

Filip,

Second problem: é - Dunno why, but Flash is not liking that in the least. With that converted to e - it, at least, imports the whole .xml file. Now - for some reason the programs aren't showing up...I'll keep digging.

Dan

[dreicher]

Filip,

Alright, found problem #3. Apparently, the _na version for XMLTV grabs the hours:minutes:seconds that a show starts/stops - whereas the _be version does not grab seconds - so it wasn't converting the dates / times correctly when importing to flash. I dropped the seconds piece (not important any way) and everything worked fine!

I'll attach a new .fla (source) and .swf (what you need) for you to use. The only problem is:

I can't fix the e thing - you'll have to do a find/replace on those - although that seems to be the only offending character. It may be different on your machine so try it first because of character mapping, etc. - but just know it's a possibility. If you only get a few programs and then no more - that's probably it.

Also, the top where the line was broken by a carriage return - that's an XML no-no. So that would need to be fixed. I don't know if that's how it came from XMLTV or not, but make sure that isn't happening or you fix it manually. If you don't get anything at all - that's probably why.

Hope that helps. Glad you caught me on a good day. :)

Dan

[dreicher]

The source if you're interested.

Dan

[FLingier]

Thanks. I'll try it when I get home tonight.

I'll have a look at the tv_grab_be and fix it so doesn't generate the incompatibilities.

Filip

[mcascio]

OK Folks,

I'm looking for suggestions of things you wish you could do and/or assign to any object/button in MainLobby.

This is open to anything and everything.

Let me know if this is too broad, but don't be afraid to shoot for the moon. :)

Or you could answer the question... "I really love MainLobby, but I wish I could..."

I'm also would love to hear more thoughts on improving the Design environment...I have a lot of cool ideas in the works and they appear to be coming along nicely along with a variety of very cool surprises that no one is even expecting. ;)

[Jay Wilson]

Hi Mario, Some of these are already on your list I know, but I just want you to know that your effortson them are not in vain and that they are important to us:

1) Macros...anything in the macro...be it loading 2-3 different programs, delays, slinke commands, etc.

2) Serial control :D You know why I'm smiling

3) Larger text fields

4) Better preview windows...not only for buttons, but other graphics as well. It would be nice to test a scene that you've programmed without having to save and exit.

Basically, as you said, just makign the design portion a little easier to navigate and program.

I'm sure there are others, I will add if I think of anything!

[_K_C_]

Feature requests

(1) Don't allow scene to close without saving. Lost count of how many times this has caught me :)

(2) (WebLobby related) - allow buttons to load pages in the WebLobby browser window. I realise this isn't your highest priority, it's just this is a real showstopper for me. I'm not going to do general web browsing on my TV, but I would like to create a scene with buttons linking to a small number of pages (eg news, weather etc).

And in response to your earlier post:
View at: 1280x768
Design at: 1280x768
:D

[mcascio]

Hi Jay,

Regarding your request for a preview window...do you mean you want to view thumbnails of your scenes? If so, it's already in the works. :)

Yeah Jay - hopefully there will be a lot more smiles going around soon. ;)


_K_C_,
Good ideas. Thanks.


Any other ideas? Aim high!

[Jay Wilson]

Yes and Thanks! :)

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
You have heard this one before:
Ability to click one button ON of a group of say 4 that turns the rest OFF. This is to change sources of Audio / Video as an example.

Slider controls for volume / dim (Homeseer!), scroll (through lists like audio files).

action associated with ON (and "ON" button graphic state)as well as a seperate action for OFF (with cooresponding OFF graphic state).

Dim-able buttons (see HSFlash for example)

I never quite go the clock functionality looking good in ML2. Sometimes missing digits. I seem to remember a post about a fix - something about windows settings?

A tutorial on creating buttons in Flash.

A Help document that is updated with each release.

Add a Bug / Fix section to the Cinemar website (so we don't have to scour the website when we think we remember a fix documented). List of bugs and tracking ID and then a link to the fix or timing of solution.

Sorry if this went beyond buttons :)

[mbluhm]

OK, you asked for it

"I really love MainLobby, but I wish I could..."

1. I'll second the macro request

2. I'll also second the request for sliders

3. The ability to import pronto CCF files (shooting for the moon...wouldn't it be nice to import a ccf, have it convert the graphics and the pronto codes to slinke.... and yes, I realize what I'm asking for here)

4. Have MainLobby/DVDLobby interact with Nevo.. I'm running mainlobby on an airpanel that includes nevo rc software.

5. I would like a caller id function (has anyone already figured out how to do this?)

6. Mother-in-law "OFF" button (I will pay through the nose for this one)

[dreicher]

mbluhm,

CallerID...now that would be cool! :)

Dan

[dlksf]

Hi Mario -

I'd love to see MainLobby have the ability to "remember" whether a unit was on or off. In other words, if you have a macro that says "turn on TV - turn on VCR" and MainLobby had already turned on the TV for another task, all it would do is turn on the VCR. (Otherwise, as you know, assuming the same remote code was used to turn the TV on and off, when MainLobby turned "on" the TV it would actually turn it off.) This can be done through Girder but it would be GREAT if it could happen directly through MainLobby. There's a remote control out there that does this now - Harmony Remote - and it's quite a nice little gimmick.

Of course, it means that if you manually turn off the TV, MainLobby will still think it's on, and things will get out of synch, but that's not a big deal if 99% of the time MainLobby will be used to control the A/V sustem.

Thanks for your consideration - keep up the good work!

[smoothtlk]

Many of these "wants" are addressed with Homeseer. Caller ID, detection of ON state, etc. Not to harp, but if MainLobby had a 2 way interface to Homeseer, you would have more gadgets and projects than you would know what to do with :)

[Jay Wilson]

Originally posted by smoothtlk
Many of these "wants" are addressed with Homeseer...detection of ON state, etc.

Really? How does it work with an IR based device that uses the same button/command for power? I would be interested in looking at Homeseer for things like that. the thing that has kept me away is the price, and I didn't realize this type of thing was available. Do tell!

[Dean Roddey]

I have talked with Mario about him interfacing to CQC (www.charmedquark.com) as well, which would also proivde two way control of devices, so that you don't have to do unnecessary operations, though of course that depends on their being two way control of the device available, which IR based devices won't provide.

Making foolproof control of IR devices via macros is a losing game. It doesn't matter if the controller remembers where it was last time, since it might not be anyway. All it takes is one stray press of a remote control and the whole scheme falls down.

[Jay Wilson]

Yep. That's why I hate IR and have been pushing for serial. However, there are some current/light/power sensing equipment that were they able to interface (which I thought might be happening with Homeseer), you could reliably control the IR with IF/THEN logic.

[smoothtlk]

For IR, use discrete codes for On vs. Off. Many are published.

There are current sensing devices that are connected to interface boxes that connect serially with the PC running Homeseer. Some of the HS enthusiasts are building their own. My memory says the sense device was about $30.

Homeseer remembers last device state. This is what MainLobby needs to poll and display (show appropriate button graphic - like ON or OFF or % DIM). Homeseer has an optional plugin called HSFlash that Gary wrote that is a perfect demonstration of this capability within a Flash UI.

Homeseer allows for advanced scripting and easily does If / Then /Else logic - can be as sophisticated as you can code.

The Homeseer community (6000 and growing) is very giving (like Mainlobby) and there is a wealth of free and fairly inexpensive upgrades (like HSFlash for $40).

Because of this user community and support, the current $150 for the software is cheap. Download the demo. Try it. It is usable by PC savvy through advanced programmers. Not quite turn key for the novice PC user, but one click more background is necessary. Every poster I see in AVS Forum seems to meet and exceed the minimal tech requirements to use HS.

As mentioned before, HS is the horsepower, ML is the UI (if they worked bidirectionally).

David

[boykster]

Dan,

LOL!

Rich

[dreicher]

:)

[hjackson]

For those of you who struggle with Girder and lack of (working) directional key support but have no problem integrating the Slink-e into your MainLobby system, the new iMon remote control may be your answer! This INFRARED remote is solely for control of your HTPC! It has a software manager that allows it to control software programs. Certain software programs like Win MP and PowerDVD appear to be pre-programmed in. They claim that the IR receiver can learn from ANY household remote so the Slink-e should be no problem. See my recent post here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2414118#post2414118, visit their site here: http://imon.soundgraph.com/ and buy it here: http://www.digitalconnection.com (it appears to be on back-order and I am not clear if they carry both types of iMon)
I plan on buying one and will post my results if no one beats me to the punch.

hjackson

[Jay Wilson]

The only problem is that while some discrete codes are published, others do not exist at all. I will look into Homeseer as the if/then piece for the device or two that I need IR on. Actually, once all the serial is complete, I'll only need it for one piece. Hmmm....

[Jay Wilson]

Also, if these sense devices can connect serially...

Dan, can we work with that with everythig else going on? I suppose that would require 2-way wouldn't it? Poll com port 2 and if such and such a state send IR?

The problem with the program (any...HS, ML, etc.) is that turning it off manually or from another remote one time and the whole sequence is out of whack. But with sensing...ie the power light...then we have something very powerful!

[smoothtlk]

AC sense device: http://www.smarthome.com/7190.html

Homeseer forum thread discussing IR sensing: http://homeseer.infopop.net/6/ubb.x?a=tpc&s=697298074&f=797294556&m=7092910686&r=9222960686#9222960686

AC current sensing Homeseer forum thread: http://homeseer.infopop.net/6/ubb.x?a=tpc&s=697298074&f=446296174&m=5336086533

[Jay Wilson]

thanks Smoothtlk!

Looking at that current sensor, if Dan and Mario can get 2 way X10, that would definately do the trick!

The two threads looked more specific to Ocelot and "mechanical" ie relay triggering. I registered for the forum though, and will search a bit more to see what else may be available. Thanks again for the heads up!

[Dean Roddey]

Homeseer allows for advanced scripting and easily does If / Then /Else logic - can be as sophisticated as you can code.


The upcoming CQC release will likely kick it's butt in this area. It has a fully object oriented, virtual machine based programming language, with full graphical IDE for debugging and testing, and you can write device interfaces in it. It basically opens up CQC for very complex customization by users, far, far beyond simple decision making.

[mzemina]

Originally posted by Dean Roddey
The upcoming CQC release will likely kick it's butt in this area. It has a fully object oriented, virtual machine based programming language, with full graphical IDE for debugging and testing, and you can write device interfaces in it. It basically opens up CQC for very complex customization by users, far, far beyond simple decision making.

But what good will it be if Mario doesn't support it like girder?

Mike

[smoothtlk]

Dean:
"Making foolproof control of IR devices via macros is a losing game. It doesn't matter if the controller remembers where it was last time, since it might not be anyway. All it takes is one stray press of a remote control and the whole scheme falls down."

When using the Slinke - any IR command from a conventional transmitter is sniffed by the slinke. Slinke in turn tells HS what got switched so HS keeps track of state. The prob is when you hit a button on the actual device :(
As Slinke also supports Control -S for Sony products, there is bidirectional control for some units (not my DVD changer :( )

Also, when programming IR macros, we usually program to get to a know state before initiating the macro. Like hitting STOP and then going from there to change disc, Play, select a chapter, etc. Depends on the device. It is a bit cobbled, but doing the best with what we got!

My Lexicon has serial input. So does the Tivo. Looks like you are very aware of these looking at your Charmed HA website. Looks interesting!
Best of Luck with it.

David

[Dean Roddey]

But what good will it be if Mario doesn't support it like girder?


What good are Ferarris if Mario doesn't support them? They are very nice, advanced products. It woud be nice if Lobby supported CQC as a back end, and I'm ready to help to do that, but it's not like CQC is useless without it.

[Dean Roddey]

My Lexicon has serial input. So does the Tivo. Looks like you are very aware of these looking at your Charmed HA website. Looks interesting!


CQC has good IR support. I currently support the IRMan and RedRat2 and Jon is sending me a USB-UIRT for inclusion in the upcoming version, which will be the preview release for the official 1.0 version. But it always will provide you ten times more control and power for two way devices. I would encourage everyone to strongly consider not buying devices in the future that aren't controllable via some two way protocol (serial, IP, USB, whatever.) Even if you can't do it all at once, over time you'll end up with a system that you can truly automate.

[Jay Wilson]

Dean, Are you into CQC full time now? Seems like I remember you being "thrust" into it at a less than opportune time awhile back. Is CQC still your main focus (and day job :))

[Dean Roddey]

Yep, it's my life now. The 0.9 release is about a few weeks away. I'm down to the short list of 'must do' things. I'll give it to some long term testers for a week perhaps, to make sure it's basically sound, then I'll make it publically available for evaluation, and start accepting pre-orders. As soon as it's deemed stable, it'll go 1.0.

The preview of the docs for the new system are here (www.charmedquark.com/www2/TmpWeb/), if you want to look through it. Some of it is stubbed out since it's not been brought over to the new site content and I've not brought over all the pages for supported devices yet and it doesn't have many pretty pictures and whatnot yet. But the technical content section has info about the new macro language and IDE and driver architcture and so forth.

The price is going to be $200 for the base package, all that there will be in the 1.0 release (ignore the optional packages on the web site, which are just trial content), but the pre-order price will be %25 off, so only %150. That's for a network license, not a machine license. CQC is distributed. The license is for a master server on one machine in the network and you can run the server and client components on any other machines. If you have only one machine, you just load all the components on one machine.

[mcascio]

Hi everyone,

Sorry for my absense on this thread. I've been plugging away at MusicLobby.

I'm hoping to have it ready for primetime within the next couple days.

Take a peek at the latest screen shots:

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/musiclobby_01.jpg

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/musiclobby_02.jpg

There's still a significant amount of work left to do on the PocketPC version...but the look is already being worked on.

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

I'll have to respond and read the latest posts to this thread to see if any require a response from me when time permits. ;)

[slocko]

mario, what mp3 players do you integrate with for music lobby?

[mcascio]

Hey Slocko,

MusicLobby will require either J River's Media Jukebox or J River's Media Center as well as MainLobby 2.

I've been playing around with Media Center and I'm quite impressed. The cross-fading between song selections is very cool. Even better is that you can have multiple machines running MusicLobby - they all update simulataneously and display live up-to-date playlists. If one user removes a song from the playlist, it will remove it from all other playlists.

[slocko]

will check it out!!!!

just got my htpc case the other day. now to find a motherboard!!!!

[pdermody]

I was just curious about the status of the arrow key nav issue, was it ever resolved in ML2? Or is it slated for ML3? If ML3 - any ETA? Just curious.

-pd

[_K_C_]

Mario

Could you give me some advice on scaling?

I'm running at a windows resolution of 1280 x 768

MainLobby
Custom resolution 1280 x 768
Scaling x and y at 66.67
x shift -159
using 1024x768_Theme5.jpg

Main scene looks good, but I found this by trial and error. Perhaps these settings are what's causing me problems with dvd and music lobby?

DVDLobby
dvdlobby.swf at 105%
Scene is offset to the right (in design mode about 7+ squares of gap to the left, about 4 to the right)
Any way to center it? I'm also having trouble getting the trimpiece to match up...

MusicLobby
musiclobby.swt at 105%
Also offset to the right. Also looking for a way to center it.

Weblobby
set at 100%. Flushed left. Any way to center it?

Any suggestions much appreciated.

[dreicher]

Well, you say, what else can they come up with to make MainLobby that much better?

Client/Server?
Bi-directional communication?
A server with plug-in architecture so other smart people can write stuff to control my hardware/software?

Okay! That we can do!

This is an add-on for MainLobby that I've been working on (not so secretly) for some time now. What does it do? Well, it allows MainLobby clients to communicate bidirectionally with a server to issue commands to control hardware/software connected to the server.

So, what do I need?

You need to install the server software (attached setup.exe) on the computer you'd like to control. Install an updated version of MainLobby that supports the new client/server setup (coming later today I'm told). From the new update, you can send commands to the server and the server will be able to send commands back to your clients.

What can the server do right now out of the box? I've included plug-ins for:

CallerID. See who's calling and a log of the last 30 callers from your MainLobby clients. Requires a modem be installed on the computer with MLServer. Setup unlimited caller aliases to show a defined name when a number calls, instead of the phone companies idea of the callers name. Screenshots at bottom of post.

FileOpen. Execute a file with options on the server from your clients.

Girder. Send girder commands/payloads directly to Girder MUCH, MUCH faster the ieventc.exe. See 'About' for special requirements.

MusicPlayer. Play music files/tracks on the server. Create unlimited aliases, examples included, so you can send an alias instead of the full path. Ex: MLServeCmd.MusicPlayer|PLAY~test. Also, change volume output, pause, etc.

Pause. Pause execution for x seconds before executing the next command. For use in macros. Oh, yeah, macros baby.

RS232Send. Send ASCII/HEX commands to any serial port.

WindowFunctions. Minimize, Maximize, Restore, Bring to Foreground, Close, Quit, or Send Keystrokes to any Window on the server with a partial window title.

Here's my disclaimer: While this app was created with Mario's support and he's making changes to MainLobby to incorporate functionality for the server - this is a "Dan" application not directly supported by Cinemar. As such, support you get from myself and/or Mario is what it is. The 'About' dialogs will give you command syntax and any setup information you should need; however, we're looking to the community as a whole to help each other out on this one.

We're currently working to incorporate the Firecracker (CM17a) and CM11a for a two-way X-10 system, and other people smarter than I are working on direct control for Powerfile, Slink-e, Ocelot, etc; however, some functionality can be done with what's available now. I will be making an SDK available as time allows for users to create their own plug-ins.

Setup is available for the time being, here:

http://66.93.18.50/setup.exe

Dan

http://66.93.18.50/mlCIDIncoming.jpg

http://66.93.18.50/mlCIDLog.jpg

[stickyfingers]

Uh-oh...now that we've got your phone number, you're going to be deluged by AVS fans in search of autographed 3.5" floppies - or hot chicks wanting to get down to your Chipmunks do Christmas music collection...

;)

Brian

[dreicher]

You used hot chicks and floppies within four words of each other. :) Somehow, that strikes me as funny!

I need some fresh air. Or a cigarette. Maybe both.

Dan

[dreicher]

There was an error in the FileOpen plug-in, so if installed before now, please redownload/reinstall and you should be fine.

Sorry.

Dan

[slocko]

how do i make it call dominos and order me two hawaiin thin crust pizzas? :)

[dreicher]

Switch to Papa John's or Pizza Hut and we'll try create an interface for their online ordering system! :)

Dan

[stickyfingers]

Originally posted by dreicher
Switch to Papa John's or Pizza Hut and we'll try create an interface for their online ordering system! :)

The really scary thing is - I'm not entirely sure you're joking...

;)

Brian

[dreicher]

Or, better yet, have Domino's contract us to build their online ordering system (man, are they behind) and we'll build native support right in: PizzaLobby. Just Mario-made graphical drag your Mario-made graphical ingredients onto a nice Mario-made graphical pizza - hit order and voila!

You could leave your kids alone for weeks.

:)

Dan

[schud]

Damn you guys! ;)

Just as soon as I think I'm there, you dangle some new carrot like this out to grab! :D

OK - here goes some big questions that I should probably ask in differrent posts, but my mind is spinning....so here goes.

OK, so what do I need to know about web tablets? Since you guys have already gone down this road, could you please part with some "do's and don'ts" when shopping for a web tablet? Are there any to stay away from? Any definate recommendations for this application?

I assume you will need a wireless 802.11B hub or router?

I have a Crestron system right now. How do I obtain all the IR codes for my IR devices (like my Yamaha DSPA1 receiver, satellite receiver, VCR, laser disc, Lutron Lighting system)? Does the slinke function like a learning remote? Are there IR libraries for the slinke?

I would be very dissapointed to invest the $$$ in a web tablet PC, only to find that there is a level of control, or component that MainLobby client\server won't do.

Sorry if my questions seem elementary; I've just never been tempted to dive into MainLobby as a primary control GUI until now.

[mcascio]

OK folks,

Registered users can stop login to download the latest version of MainLobby 2.30 that takes advantage of Dan's new server.

Just reinstall the app and it will update your files. (Back up any mls files you that may be named the same as the initial install otherwise they will be overwritten)
It comes with a file called, "mlserverconnect.ini" - the server domain is currently configured to "localhost" - if you are running MainLobby on another machine not running the MLServer app - you'll need to change this to the proper server name or ip address.

The new version of MainLobby includes an MLServeCmd line under the button properties panel. You can also configure your clientID that gets identified in the list of clients in MLServer. This option is under OPTIONS | DISPLAY.

[steph99]

Hi Dan (DAAA-AAAN)! Hi everybody!

1st of all: great work! Very impressive! (musiclobby AND client/server)

I've been away/busy for quite some time but tried to follow the *Lobby development as much as possible...a lot has happened!

My question: is it planned to integrate this functionality with Musiclobby and maybe even DVDlobby functionalities in future versions?
What I mean is: will it be possible to use music/dvdlobby on a client and the music / movie will be played on the server?
The way understand the client/server functionality right now is that it is an additional screen/page within mainlobby and the "play music" module can execute single play commands on the server, i.e. it is not possible to use musiclobby on the client and everything is played via the server's sound card.
Not sure if I misunderstood the concept, can't test it at the moment (I'm at work).

[mcascio]

Hi steph99,

Welcome back. We missed ya! :)

MusicLobby is already a client/server set up...meaning you can have multiple MusicLobby's running throughout the home all displaying up to date playlists and the current song playing. If you drag the progress indicator on one display to move the song ahead, all other displays will update too. Remove a song from the currently playing list, it removes it from all other displays of MusicLobby. Same is true with Cover Art as the album changes during the playlist.

What's cools is they still have a level of indepence. Meaning one user could be in the add playlist portion of MusicLobby while another user could just have it setup to display the Cover Art and currently playing songs.

To answer your question, yes - everything is played via the server's sound card and all the clients can control it.

I think you'll see DVDLobby follow suit with this same type of client/server setup.

[dreicher]

Stephan,

MusicLobby on a client will remotely control a server running MediaJukebox/MediaCenter. You could have one instance of MediaCenter on the server computer being controlled simultaneously by multiple MusicLobby clients.

We are just dipping our feet into the client/server side of the pool - so anything is possible in the future. Hopefully, we'll be able to use variables from within MainLobby/DVDLobby/etc. to send custom commands to the server at some point down the road.

Dan

[dreicher]

Wow, great minds think alike...and in unison!

Dan

[slocko]

keep working on the pizza thing. if i could remove the only exercise i get during the day, picking up the phone to call for pizza, that would be great!!!!! :)

[Jay Wilson]

Mario, Can I ask a stupid question? And possibly a request...

Do we just login to the normal Cinemar "thingy" to download the latest? It always show "mainlobby2.zip", which is what all my files are named. :)

Just to be sure, can we call them "mainlobby230.zip" or whatever the latest rendition is? I'm never sure if I'm downloading the latest or not :)

Pretty sad huh? that that's teh only question I can come up with!

Thank you Dan and Mario!

BTW Dan, I started building my control PC last night as we have discussed in the past...A 2 rack space case with a total of 8 serial ports for control of everything...now to find a Progear that I can afford :rolleyes:

[mcascio]

Dan,
It's honor to have my mind compared to yours.

slocko,
I believe you have a Kenwood changer...no? We've got a Kenwood plugin for DVDLobby Pro 2 that's ready for testing. :) If anyone else is interested please shoot me an email. (You'll need DVDLobby Pro 2 setup and running and obviously a Kenwood Mega Changer) And no - the plugin doesn't come with a trial Kenwood changer. :)

Jay,
That's correct - it will show up as mainlobby2.zip but will install mainlobby 2.30 server edition - I do this for several reasons, the main one is to save me time. :)

[slocko]

Mario I do and would be happy to test for you, but I am still putting everything together with the HTPC. Got my ATI dongle yesterday.

Is the control of the kenwood going to be serial or through slinke? or either?

Maybe this weekend I can make some time and get everything going.

[mcascio]

Hi slocko,

The Kenwood control is through Serial - no slinke required.

Shoot me an email if you have the opportunity and I can provide more details.

[Wysocki]

Dan:

1. I just installed ML server on my htpc and started it. I checked "Start server on startup" and "minimize on startup" the clicked the "about" button. Got an error: "Run-time error '13': Type mismatch". Ran it again and whenever I click the "about" button it crashes.

2. The "settings" button does nothing, is this normal?

3. Is there any way to minimize or close the window once it's up?

Mario:
Unrelated but bugging me: Any reason why you can't have all the ini files with CRLF at the end of each line instead of the & character? Would make it a lot easier to debug and maintain.

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
Do you have a recommended directory structure?

I was using:
c:\program files\cinemar\mainlobby\mainlobby.exe
and
c:\program files\cinemar\weblobby

Seems like c:\program files\cinemar\mainlobby.exe is now the default?

It seems that the structure that is important is everything relative to the mainlobby.exe file? and where that is nested is not so critical?

It would help for setup / updates / instructions to pick a default path and for all of us to stay consistent (at the user's choice).

I chose the default path with the server install and it created lots of redundant files (actually, made my old ones redundant).

Would it be wiser to chose c:\cinemar\mainlobby.exe because of batch file issues with long file names (even though I don't like things in the root)?

Thanx
David

[smoothtlk]

Dan,
Search on the Homeseer forum for a thread that Collegeboyslive started which was about interfacing with online pizza delivery services. Believe it or not, it was a "real" project. I remember College was having some issues with the website, so I don't know if he ever got it working. College was checking out at least DVDLobby for a while here.

See what happens when you come up with a new project - even if it was in jest :)

David

[mcascio]

Dan,
I'm trying to remember way back when I was getting that error. I'm trying to remember what solved it. Could be a regsvr thing?

David,
My recommendation would be to use Program Files\Cinemar for everything.
Most things will rely on the mainlobby.exe.

A lot of the programs that MainLobby will use should be in the same folder. Which includes Scenes and other executables.

While I realize it's not the most organized way to do things, it does work. :)

Dan's MLServer though doesn't need to follow suit with what's going on with MainLobby. Since it just connects to his app.

[dreicher]

Terry,

About/Settings only work when something is highlighted in the plug-ins list. Those are for the individual plug-ins. You shouldn't be getting runtime errors, though. I'll take a deeper look.

You can send the window to the taskbar by clicking Options->Hide.

David,

I'll check it out! :) If, for nothing else, than some good humor. The redundant files are there because there are several versions of WinSock and they have to be identical for things to work properly. I also need to install the flash and windows media 7 ActiveX, because 9 has DRM stuff that I didn't want automatically put on users systems.

Dan

[slocko]

usually mismatch errors are due to a dependent dll or ocx not being the required rev that it's expecting.

I bet if you tried registering the dlls/ocx that come with Dan's program you will see registration errors.

[mcascio]

Hi everyone - I'll post this hear since it applies to many MainLobby users.

It's been a while since an update has been made to Weblobby. I'm sure many of you feel neglected with all the other things going on with the Cinemar Lobby applications.

I've just finished making an update that allows you to go to a specified url from any button in MainLobby.

Just add this cmd to the MLcmd line: Web.NavigateURL
Then in the var line below - specify the url: http://www.cinemaronline.com

You'll need to login and get the latest version of WebLobby along with the latest MainLobby 2.30 Server Edition to utilize this new feature. If you've already downloaded ML 2.30 before today or actually as of 2:30pm Central time - you'll need to redownload for the update to take effect.

I know it's not much, but I think it makes the program much more useful.

You'll be able to create Sports | Weather | etc. buttons and have them direct to the proper url.

Heck - you could even create a button called "Pizza Delivery"! :)

[slocko]

you are getting us closer to Nirvana Mario ;)

[mcascio]

slocko,

Nirvana is MainLobby 3. :)

Everyone,
Forgot to mention - when upgrading to the latest version of MainLobby 2.30 Server Edition - be sure to back up any .ini files or .mls files. Specifically mainlobby.ini stores all your default startup settings, slinke settings, display resolution, etc. This is probably the most important.

[dreicher]

Wysocki,

An updated version fixing your issue will be available for download tomorrow. Sometimes when your coding on NoDoz, you tend to do dumb stuff. The problem is fixed and it should work correctly going forward. However, in the meantime don't press about unless a plug-in is hightlighted.

The & at the end of variable strings makes sure the last variable gets loaded, as that convention of importing variables basically splits the string up between the &'s. Sometimes it works without it, but for best practices - it needs to be in there.

Dan

[dreicher]

Okay, since it's been out for a day - I'm in the process of rewriting the server! :) Seriously, I'm hoping to have a new version of the server out in the next couple of days.

The bad news: structurally there will be some major changes to the server that may necessitate an uninstall / reinstall. I will do my best to keep the user intervention to a minimum.

The good news: A much, much better plugin structure. I've been getting bombarded with people wanting to write plugins for this and that and the other thing in this or that or the other code. My apologies, but I didn't anticipate the needs of a lot of other people who wanted to get involved. So, the new version will support the ability to create plugins in VB, C++, Java, PerlScript, Python, PScript, JScript, VBScript - basically any language that has a windows scripting engine.

This version will also allow for inter-plugin communication, so a slink-e plugin could send a command to the music player plug-in to tell it to say Goodnight, or whatever. Once I'm done with the server, I can finally put together an SDK - so look for that shortly after.

The new version will also automatically recognize new plugins and issue commands to them from the MLServeCmd syntax without updating the command processor (which will be eliminated) - so developers can test their plugins from MainLobby as they couldn't before.

I'm sorry for any inconvenience. Had I known this was going to happen, I would have held off on releasing the server - but it's too late to take it back now. In the meantime, enjoy.

Dan

[dreicher]

MainLobby Users,

The rebuild of the server went much faster than expected and I'm happy to say is done.

http://66.93.18.50/setup.exe

If you installed the previous version, you must either:

1) Uninstall the previous version, or
2) Unregister and delete MLSendToServer.dll and MLCommandProcessor.dll from the plug-ins directory

before you install the update.

Changed:
-Removed MediaPlayer from server and embedded in plug-in.
*Plug-ins are now persistent.
-Removed external command processor - now handled internally but automatically exposes new plug-ins.
*Rebuilt plug-in framework to accomodate any scripting language
-Removed SendToServer plug-in. No longer necessary, plug-ins can make direct calls to the server function for sending information to the client.
+Added: Interoperability for plug-ins to allow developers to access other plug-ins directly from their plug-in.
*Fixed: About button would cause Runtime error when no plug-in was selected.
+Added: TechTalker samples already aliased to demonstrate capabilities of MusicPlayer plug-in
*Updated all about dialogs to new syntax

With this new framework, all command structures have changed, though not dramatically. Now, you call the plug-in name directly so Girder -> MLGirder. For example:

MLServeCmd.MLGirder|Notepad

I'm sorry for the inconvenience; however, it had to be done this way in order to make it easy for other developers to make plug-ins quickly and easily. I will be putting together an SDK as quickly as possible. Anyone willing to help me translate into C++ or Java, please contact me.

I'll make a quick plug for Mario...I've included the sample TechTalker sound files to illustrate the aliasing feature of the MusicPlayer plug-in; however, Mario will have an installer available tomorrow for anyone interested in purchasing TechTalker Vol. 1 that automatically installs all 580+ professionally recorded sounds and aliases into MainLobby Server. With macros, your creativity is the only limit.

By the way, you can do macros. I don't know if that's been said or not. Syntax is:

MLServeCmd.Macro|MLFileOpen|notepad.exe!MLPause|3!MLWindowFunctions|Notepad~SENDKEYS~Hello

Just seperate each command with an ! and use MLPause|x seconds to time things correctly.

Dan

[steph99]

Dan and Mario: just wanted to say thanks a lot for your reply yesterday. You guys answer more quickly than most of us can ask questions... ;)

Once again: VERY impressive list of functionalities that has been added in recent weeks of my absence...hope those facts aren'tr co-related in some way or the other... ;

[dreicher]

Just wanted to let everyone know that I somehow broke the CallerID plug-in with the server rebuild. I'm working on fixing it and hope to post an update soon. This should give me a chance to look at the framework for communicating back to the server for other developers.

Dan

[dreicher]

I just posted an update to the MainLobby Server Beta at:

http://66.93.18.50/setup.exe

*Fixed CallerID plug-in
+Added Web server on port 6246
+Added web capability http://server:6246/command?[MLServeCmd]|[Parameters]
+Added web capability http://server:6246/send?[Text]
+Added MLServeCmd.MLCmd|ChangeScene~[Client/All]~[mls]
+Added MLServeCmd.MLCmd|Msg~[Client/All]~[Title]~[Text]
*Changed Event Log now prefixes "Command:" or "Text:"
+Added MLServeCmd.MLCmd|MLCommand~[Client/All]~[MLCmd: MLBackScene/MLminimize/MLexit/MLsendtoback/RemoteFX Hide/RemoteFX Show/OverlayFX Hide/OverlayFX Show/BackgroundFX Hide/BackgroundFX Show/TaskBarShow/TaskBarHide/MLMenu]
+Added Plug-in for CM17a/Firecracker one-way X-10 control

The Caller ID plug-in has been fixed and is working again as envisioned. We have also embedded a web server into MLServer that allows you to issue commands from any web browser, ie:

MLServeCmd.MLPause|3 -> http://SERVER:6246/command?MLPause|3

and so on. 6246 spells MAIN on a phone, so it seemed apropo. :) You can also send text directly to the clients, though this isn't all that important yet. I've also added a new command called MLCmd. Syntax:

You can change scenes from any client or web browser, by sending

MLServe.MLCmd|ChangeScene~PROGEAR~musiclobby.mls

will open musiclobby.mls on PROGEAR. You can also choose ALL for the client to tell all connected clients to open the scene.

Another new feature, is the ability to display a message box in MainLobby the same way. See above for syntax.

You can also access most of the MLCmd's from other clients or a web browser, like:

MLServe.MLCmd|MLCommand~ALL~MLExit

The new installation program will place an updated mlserverconnection.swf on your desktop. For the new external commands to work, you must replace the one in your MainLobby root directory with this one.

I've also added a very basic ON/OFF control for the CM17a/Firecracker module from X-10, if anyone actually has one of those. I just got a CM11a a couple days ago - so I'm hoping to have a 2-way plugin done some time in the future.

Dan

[mcascio]

Folks,

If you downloaded MLServer from the post above before 7:25pm Central time, you'll need to unzip and replace the mlserverconnect.swf file with the one in this post.

Sorry 'bout that. :)

[Oliver Klohs]

Hi,

I am new to this so please bear with me if I ask completely stupid questions which mainly circle around DVDlobby and DVDprofiler:

I exported my DVDprofiler data but some of it that I liked very much is missing form DVDlobby, which is a list of actors and the director.
A lot of time people who watch a movie with me ask if I have other movies with a certain director or actor to choose from and it would be very handy if I could just have a list of the 8 or so most important actors of the movie and be able to click on an actor name and see all the other movies I got with him.

Of course this would also be nice for the director :)

Another thing I'd like to ask: Is it possible to start main lobby pro in DVD mode (which means DVDlobby) or other predefined modes ?
I watch DVD's most of the time so this is what would be most convenient for me.

@Mario: This is a great program - congratulations and I already look forward to version 3 !

Thanks

Oliver Klohs

[Wysocki]

The SETUP.EXE installs the mlserverconnect.swf file to my nice neat Desktop instead of either my Mainlobby or MLserver folder. Is this correct? If I move it to the MLserver folder the server crashes on startup.

[dreicher]

Wysocki,

You'll want to move that file to your MainLobby directory. Since users have MainLobby in so many different directories - it's put on the desktop just for the sake of being moved.

Dan

[mcascio]

Originally posted by Oliver Klohs
Hi,

I am new to this so please bear with me if I ask completely stupid questions which mainly circle around DVDlobby and DVDprofiler:

I exported my DVDprofiler data but some of it that I liked very much is missing form DVDlobby, which is a list of actors and the director.
A lot of time people who watch a movie with me ask if I have other movies with a certain director or actor to choose from and it would be very handy if I could just have a list of the 8 or so most important actors of the movie and be able to click on an actor name and see all the other movies I got with him.

Of course this would also be nice for the director :)

Another thing I'd like to ask: Is it possible to start main lobby pro in DVD mode (which means DVDlobby) or other predefined modes ?
I watch DVD's most of the time so this is what would be most convenient for me.

@Mario: This is a great program - congratulations and I already look forward to version 3 !

Thanks

Oliver Klohs

Hi Oliver,

Welcome to the MainLobby Mickey Mouse group. :)

We are pulling in some of the Actors if you check out the dvdlobby.xml file. It's currently not being used as of now. We do have plans to do some things with this though in future versions.

No tentative plans for director until we're utilizing the server to pass info to DVDLobby - we've tried to keep the XML file as thin as possible for faster load times. The server will speed up DVDLobby tremendously though.

You can configure the startup scene to DVDLobby.mls if you'd like. Within the MainLobby menu bar, select OPTIONS | DISPLAY then browse to your dvdlobby scene and press OK. Then press SAVE and restart Mainlobby.

[mcascio]

OK,

I finally fixed the bug in MainLobby that was causing the MLcmd drop down to be populated with duplicate fields.

This bug fix is free and available for download from the Cinemar login page for registered users.

This seemed to be annoying quite a few people.

WebLobby users will also want to download yet another update that fixes quite a few bugs.

[dreicher]

So Mario shoots me an e-mail last night, asking if I could add picture capability to the CallerID plug-in. I say sure,

http://66.93.18.50/dancalling.gif

and send it over. He shoots back, "No, I mean, every time someone calls it displays a picture of me!".

http://66.93.18.50/mariocalling.gif

Man, what an ego! :)

Dan

[mcascio]

Man, what an ego!

Dan,

It's not my fault I'm a good looking guy. :)

You can purchase the one time limited offer CallerID plugin with my mug shot for only $2,000. Any takers? :)

It even talks in an annoying voice and says, "Pick up the phone", "Pick up the phone".

[mcascio]

Did anyone else notice how young Dan's wife looks in the photo above?

My shes aged well. ;)

[Wysocki]

With as fast as you guys are coding, I never know if features like this are a joke or not?????

OT: Not to beat a dead horse, but could dvdlobby be modified "easily" to do audio CDs instead of DVDs?

[dreicher]

Let me assure you, this feature is very real. I've added two features to the CallerID plug-in.

1) Picture ID: if enabled sends a picture (6125551212.jpg) along with caller information to all MainLobby clients.
2) MLServeCmd: When you receive an incoming call, you can send any MLServeCmd (even macros) to the server: use it to play a sound clip, turn a light on/off, pause/mute, change a scene in MainLobby, or whatever else you can dream up.

You should get in on the e-mails where we start discussing the proper shipping methods for monkeys...which is, of course, in a barrel. Don't ask.

Dan

[dreicher]

And, by the way...that's not my wife - that's me! :)

I bet you all didn't know I was actually a 4-year old girl.

Danielle

[mcascio]

Hey Terry,

You should have received an email from me yesterday regarding CDs.


The CallerID thing is very cool and really has a lot of potential. I've got a few ideas brewing as far as cool animations, etc. :)

Plus it's a lot of fun. I find myself calling myself just to see it work over and over again. Plus it shows a nice picture of me. ;)

And, by the way...that's not my wife - that's me!

I bet you all didn't know I was actually a 4-year old girl.


That explains why you never want to discuss anything over the phone and only communicate through email. :)

< too funny Dan - my eyes are watering >

Dan's not only a 4-year old prodigy, but a comedian too. :)

[slocko]

Danielle do your parents know you hang out with a bunch of geeky guys?

[mcascio]

Hello Pronto Pro users,

I thought you might be interested in downloading a free Color Pronto Pro CCF for controlling X10 gear. This is an orginal creation from Cinemar.

http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/files/rcfiles.cgi?area=pronto&db=devices&br=x10&dv=lighting&md=cinemarscolorlayout&fc=&kw=&st=&dt=&so=&pg=1&file=ccf_templates/lighting/cinemar-x10.zip

[dreicher]

slocko,

Hang out - I'm your queen! :)

Actually, I wish I were that cute! It's a good thing my wife is good looking - or who's knows how my daughters would have turned out.

Dan

[Oliver Klohs]

Mario,

thanks, I already changed my startup screen to DVDlobby.
I will now try to read a bit first before asking more questions, but nice to hear that you plan to do something with actors :)

Support for looking up movies with specific actors AND directors is really highly welcome, as it is a nice way to choose movies especially when you have guests.

Oliver

[mzemina]

Originally posted by mcascio

We are pulling in some of the Actors if you check out the dvdlobby.xml file. It's currently not being used as of now. We do have plans to do some things with this though in future versions.

No tentative plans for director until we're utilizing the server to pass info to DVDLobby - we've tried to keep the XML file as thin as possible for faster load times. The server will speed up DVDLobby tremendously though.


Mario,

As part of future plans how about allowing the Lobby tools the access to a true database on the either the users network or on the HTPC (not recommended due to loading)?

The reason is... I have been working on conversion of the DVDprofile XML file and creating a true relational database.

The reason behind this I was having a fit in searching (from a coffee table book standpoint) on a specific actor and remembering what other films he/she was in.

I have some of the work completed (I had time this week to work on it) but am still not quite ready to call it alpha yet.

Mike

[slocko]

that is a great idea. using a relational database.

[mcascio]

Hi Mike,

Having all information stored on the server and stored in a database is much more obtainable with the Dan's MLServer. Stay tuned. :)

BTW, I haven't seen many postings of people using the new ML Server or feedback.

Either the directions are simple and easy-to-use or not many people know about it.

I have yet to notify all the users about this - I was waiting till the smoke cleared and to see if any major bugs were found.

[dreicher]

Mario,

That's because I posted my phone number in a screenshot. :) They're all just calling me.

Dan

[Wysocki]

MLserver observations:
I'm running a couple of computers and a Progear with a separate htpc as the server. I downloaded MLserver and was pretty excited about it. But then when I sat down to the computer and installed it, it just stared back at me. I guess I could use some examples, instructions, tutorial, to get me going because I'm a bit puzzled on how to get going and now implement some of the great stuff that I think it does if I needed it to do that stuff.

[dreicher]

Wysocki,

I wish I could say that's all done and on it's way over, but it's not. Selecting the individual plug-ins and clicking 'About' does yield a fairly decent rundown of what the plug-in does and has some examples, but it's not a replacement for true documentation or a help system.

I'm hoping to have something together this week as far as a tutorial, some feature enhancements, bug fixes and the like. If you have specific questions, in the meantime, please post them here so we can try and hit as many people as possible for now.

Have you been able to get it setup at all? Get your Progear/computers connected to it?

Dan

[Earcandy]

Dan,

I just installed your Mainlobby server last night, and I was having difficulty getting the caller-id plug-in to work. When I go in the settings for the plugin and set the COM port to 6, it tells me invalid port. This is the port number assigned by Windows XP in device manager. Any ideas? Also, once it is configured does the caller-id automatically pop-up or are additional steps for setting it up. Thanks for any help you can provide.

Craig

[dreicher]

Craig,

I'll check into the port thing. Once it's setup and working - it will automatically broadcast caller id information to any connected clients. Perhaps, try Port 2 or Port 4 and see what happens.

Dan

[dreicher]

Craig,

Try downloading the latest server update - posted this morning.

MLServer Revision Log

August 3, 2003
*Fixed: CallerID plug-in was hanging on COM Port error when first connecting.
+Added MLWindowFunctions|SendCharacters to attempt to send characters to an application without changing focus.
Currently works with some applications, but not all.
+Added MLCmd|thanks~<<client>> for some fun.
+Added MLServeCmd override capability for individual callers in CallerID plug-in.
+Changed: MLFileOpen now accepts any executable or file and opens it with the default program.
+Added: MLFileOpen now accepts command-line parameters.


August 1, 2003

+Added MediaCenter plug-in to operate with MusicLobby plug-in for MC. Allows control of basic MC functions from MainLobby when used in conjuction with the new MC/MJ remote server.
*Fixed MusicPlayer plug-in. Was not loading automatically
+Added picture display capability to CallerID plug-in
+Added ability to send MLServeCmd on ring from CallerID plug-in
*Changed: About boxes are now draggable
*Fixed: CallerID plug-in was acting erratic.
*Updated mlserverconnect.swf with Picture CallerID information.

Dan

[dreicher]

Make sure to update mlserverconnect.swf in your MainLobby directory with the one added to your desktop during installation.

Dan

[Earcandy]

Dan,

Thanks for fixing the COM error in the Caller ID plug-in. I now connect to my modem, but caller-id still seems to not be working. In the plug-in I connected and set the modem. Now, when mainlobby is open I should get a caller-id pop-up when the phone rings? I don't see any calls in the plug-in log either. Are there any other troubleshooting steps you would recommend? The modem works fine testing it via hyperterminal. Thanks in advance for any help.

Craig

[mcascio]

Craig,

Did you drag over the new mlserverconnect.swf file to your Cinemar folder that Dan places on the desktop?

Remember to press connect in the CallerID Plugin settings.

Also try some of the other settings instead of None, Xon/Xoff, etc. I've noticed some problems too. You should at least see something in the CallerID plugin. There is also either two Cancel buttons or a try me button in the CallerID settings that you can press to test just to see a sample pop up on the clients - if Dan still left it in there. It's the top cancel if it still says that.

Also, try calling your number 2 or 3 times in a row and see if it shows up on the second time.

[dreicher]

Craig,

Could you post what's showing in the Modem Events box? Does your button say 'Connect' or 'Disconnect'? On the main server window, do you show any clients being connected?

I would recommend monkeying with the Echo and Flow Control. Mine is set to: Echo On, Flow Control RTS; but yours may differ to get the proper results. Alas, I did take out the test buttons. I will put them back in for the next update to at least see if it's the plug-in or ML end.

I'll send you an e-mail with a test button in it.

Dan

Dan

[Earcandy]

Mario and Dan,

Which modem are you using with the caller id feature? I actually believe the one I'm trying to use is not CID compatible.

Craig

[ccclapp]

Originally posted by Jay Wilson
BTW Dan, I started building my control PC last night as we have discussed in the past...A 2 rack space case with a total of 8 serial ports for control of everything..

Boy I need a bunch of serial ports too. What is the best way to add them? Do they mahe larger serial hubs? USB?? Firewire? PCI?

Any help would be great.

Thanks

--Caleb

[mcascio]

I've created a User Login SWF for MainLobby. Just unzip the files into the same folder as MainLobby.exe. You can use this when switching scenes that you want to password protect.

There is also a configurable .ini file that you can edit with NotePad. Just change the USER, PASS & MLS variables to whatever you prefer.

The MLS allows you to specify which MainLobby Scene File it should load upon acceptance of the username and password. NOTE: You'll need to make sure the MLS file you are loading is also located in the same folder as mainlobby.exe unless you specify a full path to the mls file in the ini file. As usual, I always recommend keeping all mls files in the same folder as mainlobby.exe.

If the user specifies and incorrect user/pass - it will prompt the user to try again.

The graphic will auto center to the screen within MainLobby. Just load the SWF into an FX layer of one of you scenes.

[Jay Wilson]

Caleb,
There are USB to serial "adapters" if you will that create somewhat of what I guess you would call a hub. Dean Roddey told me about them about a year ago when I started into this. The only memory (and not sure that it is accurate at all) was that a 12 port was going to run me around $400.

I trade a 5 year old DVD player for a 2 rack space case that I am going to use as my control PC, runnign ML and DVDLobby exclusively.

The mobo has 2 serial ports, and what I did was add an additional 4 using PCI cards. They were about $40 each, and each have a 9 pin and a 25 pin port. I will either use 25 to 9 pin adapters, or build my own cat5 serial cable with a 25 pin to rj45 jack. This is ideal for me, as I have my receiver, slinke, x10, and projector to control. That's a total of 4, plus I plan on a scaler instead of the HTPC in the near future. Whatever scaler I buy will also be 232 controlled and will make it a total of 5 ports I will be using.

If I ever add anything else, I still have the one open port, plus 4 USB ports on the rear I could convert to serial if absolutely needed.

FWIW, I am using an ASUS microATX board, and because of the 2 rack unit case, have to use a riser card for the additional slots. It works out pretty well as a "control" PC.

[mcascio]

Craig,

I went to a local OfficeMax and picked up a cheapo modem:
Best Data 56K V.92/V.44 Windows Internal Modem.

I'm still having some sparatic problems with the CallerID - I'll need to do some more testing with Dan. I think we were hoping to have more testers provide feedback such as you've done.

When it hasn't worked, it usually would work after calling one or two times. Hopefully Dan can track down the issue behind this.

[smoothtlk]

8 port USB to serial adapter:
http://www.byterunner.com/cgi-bin/cart.cgi?store=byterunner&product=name:USB-8COM-&cart_id=5271581.19555&user-id=&password=&exchange=

[lido]

Here's another alternative...

http://www.axiontech.com/prdt.php?item=45052

I, too, am out of serial ports (IRMAN/Airboard) - and this is much more cost effective than buying 8 more serial ports. I have all my USB ports still available.

Just a thought... This SHOULD work in theory... Shouldn't it?
OR is a serial port absolutely needed?

-L

[slocko]

that is pretty neat, the usb to serial adapter.

Mario/Dan,

I remember in the Ultimate TV forum, people having tons of problems with called id after Microsoft added the feature in 3.7. I don't remember the root cause of the problem, but I don't think it was something that could be fixed. I will try to hunt down the threads and will post them if I find them.

[DanAllen]

I'm messing around setting up MLServer. Anyone know how to send an "END" keystroke, or other non character keys to the command line?
I'm trying to get Theatertek to work.

Thanks,
Dan

[dreicher]

BACKSPACE {BACKSPACE}, {BS}, or {BKSP}
BREAK {BREAK}
CAPS LOCK {CAPSLOCK}
DEL or DELETE {DELETE} or {DEL}
DOWN ARROW {DOWN}
END {END}
ENTER {ENTER}or ~
ESC {ESC}
HELP {HELP}
HOME {HOME}
INS or INSERT {INSERT} or {INS}
LEFT ARROW {LEFT}
NUM LOCK {NUMLOCK}
PAGE DOWN {PGDN}
PAGE UP {PGUP}
PRINT SCREEN {PRTSC}
RIGHT ARROW {RIGHT}
SCROLL LOCK {SCROLLLOCK}
TAB {TAB}
UP ARROW {UP}
F1 {F1}
F2 {F2}
F3 {F3}
F4 {F4}
F5 {F5}
F6 {F6}
F7 {F7}
F8 {F8}
F9 {F9}
F10 {F10}
F11 {F11}
F12 {F12}
F13 {F13}
F14 {F14}
F15 {F15}
F16 {F16}
+ {+}

To specify keys combined with any combination of the SHIFT, CTRL, and ALT keys, precede the key code with one or more of the following codes:

Key Code
SHIFT +
CTRL ^
ALT %

To specify that any combination of SHIFT, CTRL, and ALT should be held down while several other keys are pressed, enclose the code for those keys in parentheses. For example, to specify to hold down SHIFT while E and C are pressed, use "+(EC)". To specify to hold down SHIFT while E is pressed, followed by C without SHIFT, use "+EC".

To specify repeating keys, use the form {key number}. You must put a space between key and number. For example, {LEFT 42} means press the LEFT ARROW key 42 times; {h 10} means press H 10 times.

[smoothtlk]

Little typo that took a while to figure out - I had everything I tried working with the new server (neat stuff!), but got stalled trying to figure out how to change scenes remotely. From a Dan post:

"You can change scenes from any client or web browser, by sending

MLServe.MLCmd|ChangeScene~PROGEAR~musiclobby.mls

will open musiclobby.mls on PROGEAR. You can also choose ALL for the client to tell all connected clients to open the scene. "


The correct syntax is: MLServeCmd.MLCmd|ChangeScene~PROGEAR~musiclobby.mls

Dan had it listed in his list of new features, but typo'd it wrong in the example.

Back to playing!

ps... Dan Allen - did you get Theatertek to work? Can you post your solution? I was going to work on that next....

[dreicher]

David,

Sorry about that. :D

Sometimes the mind works better than the fingers - or vice versa.

Dan

[pmohajer]

Hi,

I am setting up Mainlobby with slinke and I was wondering if anyone has a link to a site to download cde files. I am looking for any of the following:

Yamaha RX-V1
Kenwood 5050 or 5900
Mitsubishi HD-5 (any hughes directv receiver should work)
Philips/ Hughes Directivo (any id 1 through 9)

The cde files I setup myself never work as well as ones I have downloaded. Thanks in advance.

[mcascio]

Dan and I are looking for people to give the MLServer CallerID plugin a run for its money.

You'll need to make sure you have the latest MainLobby 2.30a Server Edition as well as the latest version of MLServer:
http://66.93.18.50/setup.exe

You can download the latest MLCallerID.dll from:
http://www.caseserve.com/cinemar/phpBB2/download.php?id=60

We're looking for any problems or bugs.

Thanks.

[dreicher]

The latest setup.exe has the most recent version of MLCallerID included. So if you download the newest it will be automatically registered/installed.

Dan

[mcascio]

NOTE: I edited my message above Dan's that mentioned updating the CallerID plugin.

Just install the setup.exe and you are good to go. :)

[dreicher]

I had a MatrixOrbital MX2 LCD fall off a truck in my neighborhood, so I decided to see what I could do with it. :)

I wrote a new plug-in for MLServer that will be included in the next release for the LCD that allows you to send MLServeCmd's to update the display. The MLMediaCenter plug-in has been updated to output and MLServeCmd on track changes (so you can write the current track/album/artist to the display) and, of course, you can write CallerID to the display - etc. Really, whatever you want from MainLobby.

You also have the ability to map all of the LCD buttons UP, DOWN, LEFT, RIGHT, ENTER, F1, F2 to MLServeCmd's. Mine are mapped to change tracks in MediaCenter, adjust volume and toggle pause.

For more information check out:

http://www.matrixorbital.com/pages/product_view.asp?CatID=4&ProductID=34

It's a pretty cool addition to a MainLobby/MLServer setup.

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Dan,
Very cool. You must have read my mind. I have the USB Matrix Orbital display in my HTPC that was showing the default bootup screen for about 3 months! I tried a few of the LCD software, but they were either buggy or a pain in the butt to configure.
Looking forward to using the ML plugin!
Thanx for sharing.
David

[gtrogue]

Has anyone ever seen, developed, or know about an ATI Remote Wonder plugin for MainLobby or DVDLobby?
I haven't decided yet on my frontend but I am leaning towards MainLobby with Slink-e to control my Sony changer and it would be nice to be able to use the transport controls on the Remote Wonder.

Edit: I found that there is a Girder plug-in for the Remote Wonder so I will go that route.

[dreicher]

There is an update to MLServer Beta available here. I'm quite lazy about change logs, so here is the stuff that actually got entered into the log...

*Changed: doAbout() now retrieves string from plug-ins to make C++ plug-in development easier
+Added: support for X10 plug-ins to update status of X-10 devices at the server
+Added: generic X10 handler to pass X-10 commands to appropriate plug-in
+Added: Grid to show status of all X-10 HouseCode/Unit Code combinations
+Added: Ability to retrieve a screenshot remotely (http://serverdomain:6246/screenshot.jpg) will return a current screenshot.
+Added: Full error logging. All errors write to error.log
+Changed: Sped up initial load time
+Added: Homeseer plug-in (Larry Rowland)
Started: Powerfile plug-in
Started: DVDLobby3 plug-in
+Added: Profiler Importer to DVD plug-in
+Added: Ability to add/edit DVD's in DVD plug-in
+Added: Image changing capability to DVD plug-in
*Changed: Hitting [Enter] now sends server command
*Changed: Label on event log to Event Log. :)


There were quite a few more fixes/additions, including a plug-in for MatrixOrbital LCD's and quite a few changes to the MediaCenter plug-in for MusicLobby users.

http://mlserver.redirectme.net/mlserver/mlserver_setup.exe

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Dan,
Looking at your post, maybe you have woken up from your all nighter!
Downloaded the new MLServer. Looks like some neat functionality updates, especially the HomeSeer plugin!

Ok, I have started looking at the HS plugin (no kidding!).
I uninstalled prior MLServer in Add/ Delete Programs. Then I installed the latest server with all the plugins. Updated the mlserverconnect.swf in the Cinemar root directory. Rebooted Server. Started the MLserver. Saw HomeSeer open.

Question 1: Didn't see any new plugins in HS - do I now always have to launch HS via launching the MLServer for the two to see each other? I assume the plugin looked into the Registry for the path to HS? If I reinstall HS - do I also have to reinstall MLServer to keep the connection? Did the plugin make any changes to HS during it's install?

Then typed "MLServeCmd.MLHomeseer|/ex:A06Off" into the Send Server command line and hit Send. HS log shows "8/24/2003 11:24:18 AM~!~MLHomeseer Info~!~Cmd: [/ex:A06Off]Reply: [] 0 characters"

MLserver Homeseer plugin Log (snippet):
"Homeseer Message: N280200
Cmd: [/ex:A06Off]
Reply: [] 0 characters
Homeseer Message: _640300"

Unfortunately, my light at A06 did not turn off.

Sending a command from a MLclient gets same reaction, just now with the originating client ID (this might be interesting once I get the basics figured out ie: the ability to see from which client the request came from)

question 2: Is the way I am using this and the syntax correct?
I tried /ev:EventName (replacing EventName with a copy /paste from HS) and got similar reaction from HS and no event play.

Can't wait to see this work!
Thanx for your tireless work!

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
OK, once I figure out how the Homeseer plugin actuates HS events and device control, I see there is a status function - how would a ML button appear based on the result of the status inquiry - ie: If when polled HS advises that device A06 is "on", how would a button in ML show up as "on"? Will this functionality be restricted to some new custom buttons in design?

another need would be for no-status X10 devices: I click in ML the "Light On" button (which runs the MLServe command to advise HS to turn the device on). Since this device doesn't respond to a status update, how would the button (upon the initial press) change to the "on" version of the button (toggle On / Off with no regard to actual status)?

Dan, Larry, feel free to respond if this is more in your camp.

thanx all.

[dreicher]

David,

Best practice is to have Homeseer running when you start MLServer. I've had some intermittent problems with MLServer not connecting to Homeseer when it has to load it.

Next, drop the leading "/" - so MLServeCmd.MLHomeseer|ex:A01Off

Sorry about that - the docs will be updated to reflect that.

There are a few buttons in the works that work with Homeseer in a 2-way setting. I should be able to post those a bit later on. They are really in the early stages and I see this being an area of constant improvement.

"No status" buttons could be any button in MainLobby.

Give that stuff a whirl and I'll get back later tonight.

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Dan,
Now we're rockin!
I see device commands, Event commands and Status updates how they work now. FANTASTIC!
Give me a few pointers on updating ML buttons with status and I will be a very busy person!
David

[dreicher]

David,

Here are a couple of 2-way switches for playing around with. They're external .swf's (as they probably will all be going forward). There's 4 of them and I would suggest putting them in your /swf folder. So:

1) Add a button to the stage
2) Edit the button and browse to the .swf under JPG Image of Flash .swf
3) Scale the image, etc.
4) In the label field, enter: A01-FLOOR LAMP (or whatever using that as a guideline). X10-DEVICE NAME.
5) Use design mode to place the button where you want it. That's it.

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Dan,
Very easy.
Seems like they need a little bit of tweaking though. For example on a Leviton 2 way switch that controls my study lights, once the light is dimmed, I can't get it full on again. Also the slider keeps bouncing back to it's original setting. This must be the 2 way response sliding it back to where the switch says it is at? Something isn't working quite right.
Neat graphics!
On the car wheel, how does one get a longer description? Now, only the 2 digit device code shows as description on the button.
thanx for providing!
David

[dreicher]

David,

There are still quite a few kinks to work out, but I wanted to get some testing going on. You have to admit - it's still pretty cool! :)

I haven't added a description feel to the car wheel yet. I'll do that shortly.

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Very cool....Just what we needed for tight Homeseer / MainLobby integration. I think the HS crowd will be all over it when it is clean. Now I gotta think what pages need to be built....

How would one display the HS device status? As mentioned in IM, there is text data that is kept there to capture results of web page grabs (like weather or news or traffic updates), or true device status (On / Off / Dim / etc) or temperature of the house etc. Seems like there may be needed a text box that displays the status results. Hopefully the box doesn't take as much screen real estate as the current static text box which is difficult to put a button below the text as the text box's area conflicts with the active button below it to click on it. We almost need it sizable.

Thanx again.

[lrowland]

Dan's SWF controls work well. There was a bug in the MLHomeseer.dll that caused commands to be sent twice. I think this is what caused the behavior of it toggling like that. I fixed the double commands in the new version of the plugin I sent to Dan last night.

Larry

[dreicher]

David,

We're going to be adding device status in a future release. It's a matter of expanding the arrays in MLServer and MainLobby to hold the data, but we wanted to make darn sure everything was functioning correctly before adding any more. :)

Dan

[dreicher]

Here is the first of two tutorials. This one deals specifically with using external .jpgs or .swf's as buttons in MainLobby. It's a good way to start things off. I'll be working on the other one for building Custom Libraries tonight and will post it as soon as it's wrapped up.

http://mlserver.redirectme.net/tutorials/buttontutorial1.zip

Dan

[KidSquid]

Dan -

There is a great flash program for building software demo's and tutorials...

You might want to take a look into it...

It's called RoboDemo http://www.ehelp.com/products/robodemo/

Will save you a ton of custom flash coding.

Squid

[dreicher]

Here is the second tutorial. This one deals specifically with creating a custom library for MainLobby. Using the custom library you can "buttonize" just about image format known to man. Creating custom libraries does require FlashMX. The steps may be duplicable in other applications that export .swf files, but I don't know.

http://mlserver.redirectme.net/tutorials/librarytutorial1.zip

Dan

[dreicher]

Squid,

Thanks for the link. I'll take a look. Being fairly comfortable with Flash, things go pretty quickly, though.

Dan

[neils]

I feel a little junior here, but I am dying to ask. I have a Slinke and a Datalux 12" touchpanel on order. I would like to hardwire all of my A/V gear to 1 Slinke on 1 server in my home theatre room (basement). Then I would also like to put another computer in the kitchen with a 10.4" Datalux touchscreen. Here are my questions/concerns:

1) Would I need to install ML/DVDL again on the 2nd PC or would I be
running the application remotely from the main PC (Slinke server)??

2) What would I need in terms of sw to get any PC on the wireless network to remotely send all necessary IR commands from the Slinke server to the A/V gear in my HT room (basement)??

3) How easy is it to configure?? Are there any manuals or help guides that I can read up on to setup this type of communication between client PC and Slinke Server

4) Would I use the standard release of DVDl/ML on my server in the HT room PC, or is there special variations for the server sw application.

Thanks for your help with this

Neil

[smoothtlk]

1) Would I need to install ML/DVDL again on the 2nd PC or would I be
running the application remotely from the main PC (Slinke server)??

I think you could install ML/DVDL on the client and just the MLServer on the Server. But why wouldn't you install ML on the server too? Makes it easier to setup everything if you can get everythintg working locally (on the server) and then extending to your LAN. Use Remote Desktop or VNC or PCAnywhere or other remote administration software so you don't have to be in the cold, damp basement playing on the server console :)

2) What would I need in terms of sw to get any PC on the wireless network to remotely send all necessary IR commands from the Slinke server to the A/V gear in my HT room (basement)??

The PC on the wireless (or wired) network just needs ML client. The ML client would send the commands to the server, where your slinke is connected.

3) How easy is it to configure?? Are there any manuals or help guides that I can read up on to setup this type of communication between client PC and Slinke Server

I have DCOM configured on each client PC to talk to the slinke server. Go to www.nirvis.com for setup info. For XP (which came out after the Nirvis setup guide), the setup is similar, but the settings are kept on different pages.


4) Would I use the standard release of DVDl/ML on my server in the HT room PC, or is there special variations for the server sw application.

Use all of the latest software. If unsure, download again. The latest ML says it is the Server release (meant to work with the MLServer). But, it is the latest, standard MainLobby client software.

[neils]

Thanks for the detailed reply. So what you are saying, if I understand you correctly, is that the same version of ML (or DVDL) can act as client sw or server sw right? When everyone was talking client/server, I thought that different versions of the sw existed and that is why I needed to know what versions to ask Mario for. Is there somewhere in the ML/DVDL sw that allows you to set it up as clinet or server, or is it additional sw like PCAnywhere or DCOM that dictates the configuration??

So to recap, I basically install ML/DVDL on every PC I want it to operate on, and then simply link it as "client" to the main "Slinke Server" in another room, and voila, I should be able to control all of my A/V gear, and hopefully it won't be too difficult to configure the sw that communicates and allows the client/server setup to work as it's suppose to.

Thanks

Neil

[smoothtlk]

Neil,
There is MainLobby (Server edition) which goes on the client (a client can also exist on a server).

There is MLServer which goes on the server.

There is DVDLobby, MusicLobby, WebLobby, which are upgrades to MainLobby and are installed on the client as well.

On one PC, you can have MLServer running, MainLobby running and DVDLobby running.

or,

PC1 MainLobby and DVDLobby as the "client"
talking to
PC2 which is running MLServer.

MainLobby can talk to MLServer (as per above) and it also can talk directly to a Slinke via DCOM. MainLobby can also talk directly with Girder. MLServer is not necessary with either of these.

MLServer also supports talking to Girder. It also supports via a plugin talking to HomeSeer home automation software.

It sounds difficult, but for it to be as flexible as it is, there needs to be this many choices of implementation.

How do you want to implement? - might be easier to explain.
Your recap is accurate if that's how you want to implement. You don't need MLServer for those needs. Once you get addicted, you probably will add MLServer for it's added capabilities.

[neils]

Man you guys are so helpful, thanks!! I guess I wasn't too clear in how I need my setup to work.

PC1:
Located in basement, will be the master control for all A/V gear in HT room, interface via 12" Datalux touchpanel, Slinke hardwired to this PC. So since it will be the master interface while in the HT room, I will need it to have ML, DVDL, MusicL on it.

PC2:
I guess this sucker is the client, so I will need ML, DVDL, MusicL on it as
well. Since I have multi-room audio, and eventually an LCD video display in the kitchen, the interface will be a 10.4" Datalux in the kitchen (main floor). The network will be wireless. This is where I need to know how to setup this PC to communicate with PC1 which has the Slinke on it.

Example of what I need it to do:
While in the kitchen (main floor), I select a CD cover art icon, instead of accessing and sending the IR commands from that PC (client), I would need it to acccess PC1 which has the Slinke connected, and also has all of the IR codes on it's HD, and fire off the commands to play the disc in my changer (basement).

I am assuming that I don't need PC2 to have any IR Slinke commands stored on it's HD, right?? So now that you know how I want the system to operate, would I need ML server or simply additional communication sw like DCOM, PCAnywhere etc...

Thanks again for your time in helping me with this!!!!

Neil

[smoothtlk]

"PC1:
Located in basement, will be the master control for all A/V gear in HT room, interface via 12" Datalux touchpanel, Slinke hardwired to this PC. So since it will be the master interface while in the HT room, I will need it to have ML, DVDL, MusicL on it. "

Yes, Don't forget MediaCenter for MusicL to work. Slinke software too (with IR Device Files). Open DCOM on this "server".

"PC2:
I guess this sucker is the client, so I will need ML, DVDL, MusicL on it as
well. Since I have multi-room audio, and eventually an LCD video display in the kitchen, the interface will be a 10.4" Datalux in the kitchen (main floor). The network will be wireless. This is where I need to know how to setup this PC to communicate with PC1 which has the Slinke on it."

Yes, this is the "client". wireless is no big deal for ML setup. It's just another client on the LAN, unless you have a firewall between your private wired and private wireless LAN. That will just add more complications... You just won't be able to stream live video due to the lower bandwidth (possibly with 802.11g, but I haven't played with that yet). You need to configure DCOM to talk to your server's IP address. Setup just like at www.Nirvis.com instructions.
Setup Slinke (enable Slinke Active X choice box selected as well as device files and ports) and Girder (optional) settings to also talk to the server's IP. Setup the slinke device files according to the path on the server. I usually mirror my install paths on all PCs to keep this simple.
What OS is on this PC?

"Example of what I need it to do:
While in the kitchen (main floor), I select a CD cover art icon, instead of accessing and sending the IR commands from that PC (client), I would need it to acccess PC1 which has the Slinke connected, and also has all of the IR codes on it's HD, and fire off the commands to play the disc in my changer (basement)."

You would be selecting via MainLobby (either via a custom button or DVDLobby) which sends commands locally to slinke client software across your network (wireless or wired) to the slinke server software via DCOM. The slinke software will then talk to the serial port on the server which is connected to your slinke hardware. Your IR lan is connected to the slinke hardware which communicates to your DVD changer (or other IR or Control S controllable device).

"I am assuming that I don't need PC2 to have any IR Slinke commands stored on it's HD, right?? So now that you know how I want the system to operate, would I need ML server or simply additional communication sw like DCOM, PCAnywhere etc...

Thanks again for your time in helping me with this!!!!"

Correct, your IR slinke commands only need to be on the server. However, you will find out that if you are connected via DCOM and your lan is down (or server), then you won't be able to launch ML on the client without it crashing. If you keep an instance of Slinke local too, then you can redirect DCOM to point locally and not to the server so you can design in a stand alone fashion at the client.
The PCAnywhere and VNC software is so you can mimic the server's console at the client and you can manage the remote server as if you were sitting next to it. Unrelated to MainLobby functions or install.

No prob with the help.
David

[neils]

Aha, so it's not the ML sw that will act as client or host/server, but it is the Slinke sw that will do this. You mentioned below Slinke client sw & Slinke server sw. I am assuming that this is the same Slinke sw installed on both PC's but they become client/server based on your setup with DCOM, right?? Or is there somewhere in the Slinke sw that you setup the client/host??

I guess that's it then, I will try this and let you know if I have any other problems.

Thanks again,

Neil

Original Message:
You would be selecting via MainLobby (either via a custom button or DVDLobby) which sends commands locally to slinke client software across your network (wireless or wired) to the slinke server software via DCOM

[smoothtlk]

Neils
On the client, I believe there is really only one or two files that is needed for Slinke to catch the ML commands and to transmit. I took a quick look for a thread that identifies which, but can't find it. I install the whole package. HDs are cheap now-a-days anyway :)
DCOM makes the difference on the direction of the slinke command.

[htsource]

The link seems to be dead to download MLServer? I have MainLobby suite installed along with DVDLobby, WebLobby and Homeseer. Looks like this new MLServer will keep me busy for a while :)

Just to make sure, this MLServer is different than MainLobby 2.30, right? I'm still going through all the threads so if I'm asking questions that have been asked before, please forgive me :)

Is there also a MLClient where I can install MainLobby on a remote PC to control the main theater?

Thanks,

Simon

[htsource]

Now I understand the "MainLobby 2.30a Server Edition" downloaded from Mario's site is really just a client. MLServer is another module that installs to the PC where the SLinke is attached to locally. I somehow thought "MLServer" is the short form for "MainLobby 2.3 Server Edition".

Here's my hardware/software:

a) Main PC XP PRo running Homeseer, Girder, SLinke with a 300-disc CD changer

b) Laptop in the hallway running XP Pro and "Home Panel" (this software is developed from another Homeseer member for a touch interface). I'm using Home Panel to select my mp3 collection as well as controlling Homeseer lighting.

Now what it'd cool is if I get MusicLobby and install it locally on the laptop, I'll have access to my mp3 collection and at the same time, controlling Homeseer and my main theater all within the same interface.

Wow, I can't wait now :)

Simon

[smoothtlk]

HTSource,
Don't forget you need MusicCenter or MusicJukebox to run MusicLobby.

For your setup:
On the MainPC (with the slinke plugged into it's com port which is connected IR to the changer):
Slinke, MLServer, MusLobby MC plugin, MusicCenter, Girder, Homeseer, MLServer HS plugin.
Optional: MainLobby, DVDLobby, WebLobby MusicLobby (if you use the PC as a client too).

On the hallway PC:
Slinke, ML, MusicLobby, (with Dan's HS flash devices), DVDLobby, WebLobby (to run your HS browser screens), Girder.

[htsource]

Thanks smoothtlk for the information. Does the HS plugin part of the MLServer? I can't download the setup.exe but I'll keep trying.

You mentioned on the hallway PC, I also need SLinke. Not sure what you're referring to? I only have one SLinke and it's installed with the main PC. What I'd like to do is to control the SLinke hardware from the hallway PC if possible.

Thanks again for your help.

Simon

[smoothtlk]

The HS plugin is part of the MLServer program (not "ML Server Edition 2.30") . On the hallway PC, just the slinke software. Actually there are only one or two files in the whole install that is used, but I can't remember which two :)

You may have to setup DCOM between the Hallway (client) and the MainPC (server accepting DCOM connections). Many seem to have prob with XPPro and DCOM. I sent a ppt with some setup screenshots, but haven't heard back if it helped. If you need it, post your email. This is for Slinke remote use.

[htsource]

Smoothtlk,

Thanks again for the clarification, much appreciated.

My email is htsource@cogeco.ca

How large is that MLServer program, I wonder if it would be possible to zip it up and send it to me as well if you have it? I still can't get it from the site.

Thanks,

Simon

[dreicher]

Simon,

The link was moved to Mario's website:

http://www.cinemaronline.com/mlserver_setup.zip

You should be able to get it from there. Good luck with your setup.

Dan

[htsource]

Dan,

I got MLServer installed and I'll set it up tomorrow after work. I guess I better head to bed and turn off the computer or else I won't go to sleep at all :)

I'm sure I have more questions later on but I'll try going through this thread first. Thanks for the new link,

Simon

[htsource]

As you can see, I haven't gone off to bed :) I got my first x10 page ready and the commands seem to be triggering although I ran into the problem. However, the thread from Cinemar fixed it. Basically the Help file refers to this to execute an X10 command:

/ex:A10On

However, the latest command from MLServer is:

MLServeCmd.MLHomeseer|ex:A10On

2 questions so far,

a) is it possible to trigger virtual devices such as anything starting "q" to "z"?

b) now that MLServer is 2-way, how do I go about getting status text into MainLobby?

Thanks for the help,

Simon

[jriver]

Originally posted by smoothtlk
HTSource,
Don't forget you need MusicCenter or MusicJukebox to run MusicLobby.


Did you mean to say (J. River) Media Center or Media Jukebox?

[smoothtlk]

I spoke to Dan about status text. He is aware that getting text from HS would be a good thing. Looks like the plugin is capable. Now we just need a "device" in ML to show the HS response.

MediaCenter, not MusicCenter :) sorry!

[mcascio]

Hi everyone,

In my effort to try and become more efficient and organized, I've started a new MLServer category in the cinemar forum. There is a sticky there that most beginning users should find helpful.

http://www.caseserve.com/cinemar/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=35

[slocko]

Welcome back Mario. How was Cedia? Did you meet any good looking broads that were into manly HT equipment :D

[mcascio]

Hi Slocko,

It was exciting to be at Cedia...not only attending for the first time, but being an exhibitor as well. I just wish I would have had time to actually walk around and check out the exhibits. The booth was packed for most of the time. The first two days I only had time to catch one meal. I did get a chance to speak with many users of the software which was a great pleasure to put a face to the name. I didn't expect to see so many users there.

Cinemar's booth turned a lot of eyes not only by attendees, but also other exhibitors.

We setup a touch screen running the Lobby Suite and it was controlling a Media Server. Just press a Movie Poster and on the Media Server you would see LOADING MOVIE appear and the movie was cued up in seconds.

I heard there was a company selling something similar to DVDLobby with the server for $35k base system. I believe it held around 200 or 400 movies - not sure.

The only booth I made it to was a $35k chair set that moved all around and synced to Lord of the Rings. I wouldn't recommend watching a movie in one of those chairs after a long night of drinking. :)

The only woman I really talked to was a reporter from Electronic House Magazine - so helpfully you'll see Cinemar mentioned in their next issue. Also be sure to keep your eyes peeled on PC World's next issue.
I've never seen so many men all in one place before. ;)

[slocko]

I heard the same thing. I expect to see a legal challenge mounted against them since their solution includes the ripping mechanism.

Great news on your success.

So you had fun with the Cinemar groupies!!!!!! All those adoring men looking at you with worship in their eyes :D

[mzemina]

Originally posted by mcascio

...
Cinemar's booth turned a lot of eyes not only by attendees, but also other exhibitors.

We setup a touch screen running the Lobby Suite and it was controlling a Media Server. Just press a Movie Poster and on the Media Server you would see LOADING MOVIE appear and the movie was cued up in seconds.


Were you able to get pictures of your booth? Care to share? Maybe on your website?

Mike Zemina

[mcascio]

Mike,

I only had time to get one snapshot in and you really can't see too much...but here it is.

John from Music Mountain who provided the system running the Lobby Suite is shown demonstrating the app to attendees:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/cedia_photo.jpg

We were also using a Gyration Mouse and keyboard on the Main display.

The person next to us left a day early so we setup the Nobu touchscreen on the booth next to us so it's not visible.

You may notice some razzle dazzle icons on the screen that are part of the home and media graphics library I want to complete and release.

For the show, I created a unique jump screen menu that when you pressed the bottom of the screen would appear. It certainly made it easy to jump among the products.

So I'm thinking of ways to allow the end user to build this type of jump menu.

There's always this battle between allowing customization versus this is what you get. This is what you get is certainly alot faster to develop and tremendously easier, but there's always someone out there that wants to do something different. Hence the reason MainLobby evolved. :)

[orbitzboy]

Too Cool!

Mario,

as a power user I have to say thank you for the extensibility of Mainlobby. I can think of at leas 10 ways to get DVDLobby to start a movie. As someone who as agonized over the same issues you have, I must say less features, and more refinement. I've recommended the software to a number of people already, and I inevitably become their help desk for the first week or two - and these are other developers. As the software gains a wider acceptance, the support issues go up logarithmically. I think the balancing act is pretty good now (I'm guessing a majority of users use Slink-e... because you connected the dots from start to end, use the templates that came with the software... etc...). If you pre-built some end-to-end solutions for other popular HTPC uses without the technical need more people will follow.

Then, after Cinemar is bought by Sony, and you're living in Hawaii, us power users will keep the software alive because of it's open nature.

But seriously as someone that can pretty much make the software do anything I want at this point, I would like to see you get more customers.

Why are the people still paying Creston and AMX prices? Because they are clueless! My gosh, the "programming" bill a home theater installer will charge to "personalize" an AMX installation is 10x what Mainlobby costs.

If you supplied a software hardware solution for something popular (say a few DVD mega changers, musiclobby, easy control of common amplifiers and a cheap wireless slate) A lot of people would show up at your door.

[smoothtlk]

Looks like the Cinemar Forum is down again...


Dan,
HSFlash has this thread for the Homeseer crowd.
It would be great if MLServer Homeseer Plugin had this same capability of allowing for user creation of "devices" to interface with the plugin:

http://homeseer.infopop.net/6/ubb.x?a=tpc&s=697298074&f=9356031503&m=2976093423&r=8016073624#8016073624

:) Nudge... :)

[smoothtlk]

Looks like the Cinemar Forum is down again...


Dan,
HSFlash has this thread for the Homeseer crowd.
It would be great if MLServer Homeseer Plugin had this same capability of allowing for user creation of "devices" to interface with the plugin:

http://homeseer.infopop.net/6/ubb.x?a=tpc&s=697298074&f=9356031503&m=2976093423&r=8016073624#8016073624

:) Nudge... :)

[s.morris]

Hi Mario,

would like to try MLServer but it would seem that mainlobby 2.30a is needed,

my registered version is 2.18 but i have not received any info about upgrades to new version ,
would the upgrade to 2.30a a free one?
went to the login section of your web site to download, but for some reason the version i downloaded was 1.7.1 which is lower than the version i have all ready,


steve

[smoothtlk]

When you go to the login download page, you should download the latest MainLobby and you should get 2.30 "Server edition". Then there is a seperate link (outside of the download page) to download the latest MLServer software. This link is on the Cinemar forum's site (which is down right now or I would post the link).

Did you download the latest MusicLobby (that is 1.7 I believe)? Try downloading MainLobby instead.

[s.morris]

Hi Smoothtlk,

no i am only registered with mainlobby will try again but the last one i downloaded when i loaded it up it had 1.7.1 at the top,

[jcase]

I've contacted the host, the Cinemar forum should be up shortly. Sorry about the inconvenience.

[s.morris]

Hi Smoothtlk

this is the link i use



it was the first link that i was sent when i registered to 1.5 and have used it to down load other upgrades for Mainlobby. but i have been out of the Mainlobby threads for a while
is it correct.

[s.morris]

Thanks Smoothtlk,

that look a bigger file

do you know if you just drop the exe into the folder to update, will it wipe my previous work

steve

[lrowland]

Originally posted by smoothtlk
It would be great if MLServer Homeseer Plugin had this same capability of allowing for user creation of "devices" to interface with the plugin:
:) Nudge... :)

It should be easy to allow creation of devices remotely using Commands The only hard part will be building the interface on the Mainlobby client where you can enter the names and codes.

I also assume you would want to be able to delete said devices.

Finally, what about creating new events and scripts? It seems to me that this would be more useful than device creation.

What do you think?

Larry

[smoothtlk]

Hi Larry,
yes, I agree, the hard part is creating the ML UI to add the Homeseer plugin "devices". That's what I am pestering Dan and Mario about :) since they are the only ones I have seen crack this code. This is what I mean about creating "devices". Not a Homeseer device, but one that appears in MainLobby as a new "button" and interfaces with the MLS/HS plugin.

Gary of HSFLash created a standard default .fla file that allows plugin customers to create their own flash "devices" that can be used within HSFlash. I think if MainLobby supported that same, then there would be a much larger population of devices created by users, then waiting for Dan or Mario to build them. They have been very responsive, but get pulled in a lot of directions to keep everyone happy. If we had this .fla, I would do what it took to learn Flash!

For example Dan created some neat 2 way slider X10 control "devices". That's fine, but most of my X10 install is still 1 way :( The 2 way devices get confused when they don't see the response and lock up MainLobby. So, would need some 1 way switch choices (with dim sliders that stay where they were last moved and send a proper dim command once released). I suspect the majority of X10 switches in the HS community are one way devices as they have been around longer, and are significantly cheaper.

Also, would be great to be able to show Device Value and Device Status in text to show current Homeseer tracked conditions and script results (like view weather text).

Since you wrote the plugin (thanx many, by the way) - what "devices" are you using with HS? Have any to share?

Gary's HSFlash has some good ones already (different types of lighting, window / door status, Sprinkler actuation and status, now users are contributing a A/C and Fan and PC "devices".

I am thinking that creation of new events and scripts can be maintained in Homeseer. I am thinking that MainLobby is just the user's UI for predefined control of lighting, HVAC, actuate events, see status, see script results. I don't see the need to maintain the events in ML or create new HS scripts from within ML.

[neils]

I hope I'm in the right thread to ask this sort of question. I just recently purchased the Lobby suite from Mario. I set up all of my ML screens, and now want to attach my Slinke commands from the CDE files, problem is, they don't seem to work though ML properly. I can execute all of my IR commands using EZLearn and each command tests and executes properly.

I have gone into the main Slinke window in ML, I have defined the paths to the CDE files, I have defined devices as #1, Slinke as #1, and port as 4080, and still nothing. I have my IR connection hardwired to Port 1 which is the Xantech port feeding all of my IR emitters. I have also tried port #32 for IR port 1 and still nothing. I can see the IR command names in the drop down menu, so ML does see the CDE files, but no luck in executing them.
Again, I know my setup is fine on the PC, Slinke, and wiring because the commands to work when testing them in EZLearn.

Please help, I'm going nuts with this and losing a lot of sleep and patience.

Thanks

Neil

[smoothtlk]

Try port 16.
Also - are you running MainLobby on the same PC as the one attached to the Slinke? If not, you may have to configure DCOM so that the ML slinke commands can be sent to the PC that is connected to the slinke.

do you have the "Enable Slinke Active X" checked on the top left of the Slinke setup screen?

[neils]

ML is on the same PC as the Slinke, and yes, the box is checked for Active X. I tried port # 4080 which should cover all IR ports (excluding Contol AII).
I will try port #16, but I seriously doubt it.

I read on the ML forum (cinemar) that a lot of other folks are having the same problems. There was a mention of jumping port 0 with port 1 with a small jumper cable, but I don't think that is much of a solution. If port 1 works with EZLearn, then that means that the PC/Slinke/wiring is all setup correctly.

As for ML, not much else I can do other than checking of Active X, defining where to find my CDE files, and associating a command from that file to a button.

Running out of ideas here, thanks anyways.....

Anything else???

[smoothtlk]

From the ML Docs:

2. Enter a device name that doesn’t include capitalization or spaces. Use easy to remember names like vcr, cd, dvd or x10

When you launch ML, do you see devices getting added in the SlinkeServ window? If not, then I would suspect that ML isn't seeing the Active X control.

[hjackson]

Try to post a capture of your Slink-e option screen, and your button edit screen.

hjackson

[dreicher]

Everyone,

I'm selling a Progear if anyone is interested. Linux + charging stand. Out of the box but brand new.

dreicher@ultimatewireless.com

Dan

[neils]

Assume for a minute that it is a problem with ML seeing the Active X/SlinkeServ. How else could I force ML to see it, besides checking off
that box at the top in the Slinke configuration window in ML??? Is there a way to configure the SlinkeServ to look for communication requests from specific software (in this case ML) ??

Thanks for your help

Neil

[gtrogue]

You could try reinstalling Mainlobby, the slink-e software, or both.

[dreicher]

Everyone,

A new MLServer plug-in to control TheaterTek. Along with a few other updates, you can download the entire MLServer installer at:

http://www.cinemaronline.com/mlserver_setup.zip

Why a plug-in for TheaterTek? Well, it's a pretty common application. This plug-in allows you to control TheaterTek without using "hotkeys" or losing focus in MainLobby. It communicates directly with TheaterTek to issue commands.

Syntax:

MLServeCmd.MLTheaterTek|<<command>>

Supported commands are:

PLAY
STOP
EJECT
EXIT
PAUSE
NEXTCHAPTER
PREVCHAPTER
FFCYCLE
FFSLOWMOTION
FF1X
FF15X
FF2X
FF4X
FF6X
FF8X
RWCYCLE
RW1X
RW15X
RW2X
RW4X
RW6X
RW8X
TITLEMENU
ROOTMENU
AUDIOMENU
SUBTITLEMENU
CHAPTERMENU
RESUME
VIDEOMENU
ADDBOOKMARK
DELETEALLBOOKMARKS
SETMOVIESTART
AR16X9
ARLETTERBOX
AR4X3
AR16X9PANSCAN
ARSAVED5
ARSAVED6
ARSAVED7
ARSAVED8
ARSAVED9
ARSAVED10
ARNEXT
MOVIEINFO
CCON
CCOFF
SUBTITLESOFF
SHOWCONTEXTMENU
SHOWSETUPDIALOG
CYCLEAUDIOTRACK
CYCLESUBTITLE
CYCLEANGLE
CHAPTERTITLEREPEAT
ABREPEAT
SKIPBACKWARD
SKIPFORWARD
FRAMESTEP
SHOWSTATS
CAPTUREIMAGE
RESUMEFROMLASTPOSITION
CYCLEDEINTERLACEMODE
UP
DOWN
LEFT
RIGHT
ENTER

I haven't had the pleasure to test all (or even most) of the commands - so please report any broken ones here. Thanks and enjoy.

Dan

[neils]

Well, strangely enough, things started working tonight, not everything, but some major parts. All I did was uncheck the Active X box, then check it again, I also removed and redefined the path to the CDE files. Now my Sony changer and Dish gear responds to all of my key commands. The only piece that does not respond is my Yamaha receiver.

At this point, I am a lot less worried. I now know that the whole PC/Slinke/SlinkeServ/ML combination works, it's just a matter of working out the kinks with one piece of equipment.

So I guess to all of you out there trying to get these things to work together, first try to make sure you have IR communication outside of ML using the EZLearn, and once that works, then it's just a matter of playing around to get ML to communicate with the Slinke by unchecking and rechecking the Active X box in the properties section in ML. At least that strangely enough worked for me, it does prove the theory that at some point in time, ML could not communicate with the Slinke through SlinkeServ, even though all IR worked fine through EZLearn.

Selecting movies in DVD Lobby now works like a charm.....

Thanks for your help

Neil

[mcascio]

"Cinemar is pleased to announce the addition of Dan Reicher. Dan has sold his position in a previous company, resigned his position and acquired an equity stake in Cinemar, terms undisclosed. Dan will be assuming a full-time role in product development for Cinemar. Dan brings a thorough working knowledge of the entire line of Cinemar products and a strong marketing and business management background to Cinemar that should allow us to continue to develop existing products and accelerate the development of new products."

-Mario Cascio



"I'm very excited for the opportunity be a part of a wonderful product and look forward to doing everything in my power to continue to advance the Lobby products and develop new and compelling software ased on user desires. The support this product has received from it's users has been inspiring to me for some time and I'm grateful that I've been allowed the opportunity to concentrate on something that I've been so passionate about for so long full time going forward."

-Daniel Reicher

[lawdawg]

Alright. Congrats to both of you! I can only imagine what the two of you guys will come up with now that Dan can make Cinemar products his priority. And I was just starting to play with mainlobby again, now that my theater is almost done. :)

Now Mario, I've been away from the Mainlobby scene for a while. Is there by chance a PocketPC version of mainlobby around the corner? I'd love to use mainlobby to turn my IPAQ into a touch screen remote.

[slocko]

That is great news. Congrats Mario and Dan.

[acaciolo]

lookout amx and crestron....here comes dan and mario!

[smoothtlk]

Best of luck, Mario and Dan.

[Jay Wilson]

Originally posted by mcascio
[BDan will be assuming a full-time role in product development for Cinemar. [/B]

I thought he was already doing that without officially doing that? :D

Congrats guys!

[redbull99]

This is fantastic news, with the great work Dan has already put into music lobby and Mlserver you are going to go places.

Can't wait for all the great things you will be able to do together tvlobby? winthelotterylobby? gotoworkformelobby? decoratethehouselobby?:D

Keep up the goodwork..

Steve

[dreicher]

Everyone,

Thanks for the kind words and motivation. I hope everyone is onboard for the ride, because it's gonna be a FUN one! So strap yourself in. As the rest of the crowd becomes vaporware - Cinemar is getting stronger and picking up steam. It's really an exciting time. Now if Mario and I can actually MEET - who knows what will happen!

Steve,

Haven't seen you in a while. Nice to hear from ya! It's time to step it up a couple of notches and we'll definitely be leaning on our users for direction. Thanks for you support and I hope we can really deliver some cool stuff to everyone in the future.

Dan

[mzemina]

Originally posted by dreicher
It's really an exciting time. Now if Mario and I can actually MEET - who knows what will happen!


Wouldn't that cause a cosmic rip in the time-space continuim?

Mike Zemina

[slocko]

If you guy haven't seen this thread, check it out. orbitz hit on the ingenious idea of making mainlobby the windows shell!!!!

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=302671

[slocko]

Just make sure your wives don't meet. You don't want that to happen!!!!!

Originally posted by dreicher
Now if Mario and I can actually MEET - who knows what will happen!


Dan

[dreicher]

We've each told our wives that the other isn't married. :p That should keep 'em in the dark for at least a few months.

Dan

[redbull99]

Originally posted by dreicher
Steve,

Haven't seen you in a while. Nice to hear from ya! It's time to step it up a couple of notches and we'll definitely be leaning on our users for direction. Thanks for you support and I hope we can really deliver some cool stuff to everyone in the future.

Dan

Dan,

It's been a while, having fried my htpc I have been working hard/borrowing hard to pay for the replacement htpc and the new toys to keep pace with ML. You boys are costing me a fortune:

Theatertek,
Replacement htpc,
Dell axim + wireless card
Projector (sim2 domino)
Motorized Screen
House alterations to turn lounge/dining room into theatre.

Exciting times for all ahead - I'll keep you all posted with photos as I get everything finished.

Normally hardware drives the software, in the case of ML the software is cool enough to go and buy the hardware to run it.

Cheers

Steve.

[dreicher]

I posted and update to the MLServer setup:

http://www.cinermaronline.com/mlserver_setup.zip

This release adds two new plug-ins:

MLConditional

Allows you to executes MLServe Commands based on two different conditions, if a program is running and if a file exists. The syntax is a bit different to accomodate the need to "nest" MLServeCmd's.

Example:

MLServeCmd.MLConditional|IsRunning::Zoom Player::MLFileOpen|notepad.exe::MLFileOpen|calc.exe

Will open Notepad if Zoom Player is running and Calculator if it's not.

MLServeCmd.MLConditional|FileExists::C:\autoexec.bat::MLFileOpen|C:\autoexec.bat::MLFileOpen|C:\notautoexec.bat

There is also a new Showshifter plugin. Supported commands are:

TOGGLEMENU
CHANNELUP
CHANNELDOWN
RIGHT
LEFT
DOWN
UP
ENTER
PLAYPAUSE
STOP
NEXT
PREV
FASTFORWARD
REWIND
RECORD

More to be added later. Additionally, the Zoom Player plug-in gets some added commands:

PAGEUP
PAGEDOWN
HOME
END
INSERT
DELETE
BACKSPACE
ESCAPE
SPACE
TOGGLECONTROLBAR
SHRINKWIDTH
EXPANDWIDTH
SHRINKHEIGHT
EXPANDHEIGHT
FULLSCREEN
PLAYBACKINFODIALOG
RESETCOLORCONTROLS
APPLYCOLORCONTROLS
SHOWHIDECOLORCONTROLS
DECREASEBRIGHTNESS
DECREASECONTRAST
DECREASEGAMMA
DECREASEHUE
DECREASESATURATION
INCREASEBRIGHTNESS
INCREASECONTRAST
INCREASEGAMMA
INCREASEHUE
INCREASESATURATION
DVDNUMPAD(0-9)

That should do it for now. Download the latest to take advantage. :)

Dan

[orbitzboy]

Dan,

I love the IsRunning condition. Does it use the same "image name" variable of the process like taskkill or processid? Can you use wildcards?

[dreicher]

IsRunning conditional utilizes the Window Title. Partial titles are accepted, ie: IsRunning~Zoom, IsRunning~Zoom Player, IsRunning~Zoom P would all return the same result.

We'll be trying to expand the conditional logic as things progress.

Dan

[Jay Wilson]

Love the variables guys! I'd love to see some others as well...like polling a serial port. There are a lot of device that can plug in (either USB or serial) that sense stuff...

temperature above "then" turn on rack fans...
sense current then don't turn off receiver...
sense light then don't issue power command...

And so on...

variables are a very powerful thing when I do my AMX programming... One thing I usually do is create a user variable called source...then, when a client is waatching a particular source, that is what the variable is set to. This way I only have to create one button for play...if source=dvd, then issue dvd_play command. If source=vc, then issure vcr_play command...and so on.

I think with variables and the if/then logic, nothing will be able to touch you!

[stylinlp]

Main Lobby is difficult enough now I have to think about ML Server. I have no clue where to begin. Way over my head here. I would be lucky to get Main Lobby to tell what time it is on screen much less trying to intall the entire suite. Beginners needs more instruction telling us what to do :(

[dreicher]

stylinlp,

Let us dive in and help. What are your trying to accomplish, what have you been able to do so far?

Dan

[stylinlp]

So much im over my head. I HAVE to get al this done before Monday too :(

Right now I created a front Main Lobby page. I added these simple buttons with no commands
DVD Lobby, Music Lobby, Web Lobby, SageTV, Outlook, Weather, Power, WindowsXP, Photo's. I want the time to be displayed on the screen too.

I installed tonight Girder, MainLobby, downloaded DVD Lobby, Music Lobby, Web Lobby but dont know where to unzip them. Right now I just need this main computer to function. Remote and client computers ca wait to next week.

Im running Theater Tek and Windows Media player 9, WinXP Pro. SageTV with Activist IR to change channels on DirectTV satelitte box. I have the Haupauge250 Remote working with SageTV successfully.
I have Wave out and Coax digtial out of a revolution 7.1 to a Denon 3300 receiver. Pentium 2.8gz 1 gig Ram, radeon 9600pro

I guess I should begin by somehow installing DVD Lobby? I play DVD's onDVD rom drive and from DVD's ripped to the RAID0 D: drive using Shrink DVD

[dreicher]

Unzip DVDLobby, MusicLobby and WebLobby to your Cinemar folder (C:\Program Files\Cinemar\). Create a new scene in MainLobby and save it as dvdlobby.mls (or you can use one of the included scene files). Set your DVDLobby button to open that scene from the button options menu (Select Edit mode and the button).

Start there and we'll walk through it a step at a time. You'll be singing in no time at all.

Dan

[stylinlp]

This walk thru is great! Im on my way allready. I went ahead and used the default DVD, Music and Web Lobby .mls files. Im running a 50" Plasma screen at 1280x768 @60hz and I had to fit the original .mls scene. When I tested the DVD Lobby button the next paged was 100 times larger. Could only see a quarter of the screen it was so large. I guess I have to trim thisdown to size. Will this setting mess up the first page if I change it?

Also what do I do next? Work on SageTV or TT?

[dreicher]

Have you installed MLServer yet? Also, DVDLobby has an auto scale mechanism in it that should automatically get it to the size you want. Could you post a screenshot of your MainLobby video settings?

Dan

[stylinlp]

Im not sure how to take a screen shot of the Main Lobby Screen settings. I dont think I can post an attatchment of my .mls file can I?

Yes I installed ML Server but didnt do a thing with it. Just like I did with Girder

[stylinlp]

Ouch. I tried to change the resolution of DVD Lobby. When I hit the back button to go back to Main Lobby the screen is all shrunk again like i first found it. Glad I didnt click SAVE

[dreicher]

Stylin,

From the MainLobby menu:

Click Options
Click Display (left side)
Click the Prt Scrn button on your keyboard
*this will take a snapshot of your screen
Minimize MainLobby
Open your favorite PhotoEditor (ie, Microsoft Imaging)
Resize the image to 640x480 (or in your case 640x384)
Save it as a .jpg or .gif file and attach it to a message in this forum.

If you have any problems with that, let me know.

MLServer is MUCH easier to learn that girder, I promise. :)

Dan

[stylinlp]

screeninterface13.jpg
thats what I used as my background. I wanted to start off simple so used one that came with Main Lobby

[stylinlp]

Heh. I thought of doing that. But I have no idea what the name of this JPEG, where its located. As far as I know WinXP Pro only comes with MS Paint program.

[dreicher]

Stylin,

From MainLobby menu bar, click Options -> Display:

Try these settings:

Try these settings...remember to save and restart MainLobby:
MainLobby
X Resolution 1280
Y Resolution 768
X Scale 62.5
Y Scale 62.5
XShift -159

Click 'APPLY'
Click 'OK'
Click 'Save'
Click 'Exit'

Restart MainLobby and let me know what you get.

Dan

[stylinlp]

Its now back to small again. The whole screen takes up about 1/4 the upper leftside screen. back where it was when I choose this skin.