MainLobby Version 2.0 - A Sneak Peek

[mcascio]

**** posted with permission of the AVSForum ****

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml171images.jpg

I apologize, but the other thread became corrupt so I've started this new one. Here's a link to the old thread:
Last MainLobby Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=183237)

Here's a sneak peek into what's right around the corner in MainLobby Version 2.0 which should be released shortly after Thanksgiving.

As usual, some things may change before the actual release.


What’s New in Version 2 since MainLobby 1.5 was released?

· Import JPGs and animated SWF files (assign actions and drag them around just like other buttons)
· Change Fonts
· Change Font Size
· Change Font Color
· Align Fonts left, right and center
· Rotate graphics/buttons
· New buttons, animations and graphics
· Button Display also shows the text treatment
· New ML Command Line (Assign complex actions to buttons – Exit MainLobby, Back Scene, Minimize ML, Send ML to Back, Open ML Menu, Shutdown Windows, Hide Task Bar, Show Task Bar, FadeIn, FadeOut, etc.)
· Editable X and Y coordinates for precise editing of button placement
· Adjust the transparency of any graphic
· Launch any type of file from MainLobby (.exe, .vbs, .mp3, .mov, .avi, .wmv)
· Set any Scene as the default Scene when MainLobby starts up
· Includes SWF animations
· New Background Images
· Pass variables to other programs
· New Custom Resolution Settings to accommodate 4:3, 16:9 and any other resolution
· Use Tab key to navigate buttons
· New Shell option for opening any program, file or script
· Hide any button/graphic without loosing its properties
· Next/Back arrow on Button Properties panel to quickly edit buttons
· While dragging buttons in design mode, the buttons become semi-transparent for quicker alignment
· All edit panels have been resized to a maximum 800 pixel width at full size
· Removed animation from Sliding menu for faster development
· New RemoteFX layer
· Added scaling ability to each FX Layer
· Moved the sample Button Display area to the upper left corner
· Added a button to hide the sample display button
· Use Keyboard Arrow Keys/Remote to navigate onscreen buttons (Optional Arrow Keys Checkbox)
· Automatically sets focus to the first button added to the Scene
· Invisible Button for Image Mapping
· Slinke Support
· Added TextField element for paragraphs and labels
· 1366x768 preset button added for Displays
· Open an application Hidden, Normal, Minimized, Maximized
· Fixed Grid Display to full screen while in Design Mode
· Removed Draggable feature to prevent Pen Tablet users from Accidentally moving the interface
· Draggable Panels

[cmcjo]

This looks really cool mario,
Friday is shortly after Thanksgiving. So that gives us the weekend to play!

[cmcjo]

I have the Hauppage wintv video card that is fed a cable from my Channel plus modulators. 5 of the channels are security cameras. How do we get the camera images and the option to select the channels, (or camera) in Main Lobby?

[jwaters]

Can't wait Mario!! Looks very good.

[mcascio]

Originally posted by cmcjo
I have the Hauppage wintv video card that is fed a cable from my Channel plus modulators. 5 of the channels are security cameras. How do we get the camera images and the option to select the channels, (or camera) in Main Lobby?

Hey Joe,
The reloading JPG Slideshow is currently buggy. But I'll try to get it fixed before the release of ML2. Essentially, your security software would need to export a single jpg image to your hard drive. Then MainLobby would just continually reload that same jpg image. Check out a software program called HomeWatcher. It will save the a jpg to your hard drive and has a lot of options.

[mcascio]

Hey Folks,

Spent all day working on the Manual and some bug fixes. Encountered a major one that I'm still trying to fix.

As usual, I've tried to make each version backwards compatible with prior versions of MainLobby Scene files.

Here's a screen shot that shows one of the new MainLobby background skins and what you can do when you put an old button on top of a newer one to create some interesting layer effects. All the buttons were aligned using the new X & Y coordinate feature.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot01.jpg

[mcascio]

Hi all. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend.

Very productive day today for me.

I've been able to fix many of the bugs that were causing problems. I've also had time to add more buttons and background graphics for MainLobby.

Here are some sample screen shots of included interfaces and buttons.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot03.jpg

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot04.jpg

[drbenson]

Hey, Mario, if you don't get this out the door soon, we'll all be dehydrated from salivating!

[Wysocki]

Ditto! Are you taking any Beta testers?

[z.mash]

I noticed that you added a preset resolution for 1366x768. Can you also add one for 1024x576? I think that is a pretty common resolution for those of us doing 16x9 with an XGA projector.

Thanks,
-Zak

[scottdw]

Hey Mario,
I love the second "Main Menu" screenshot. It's exactly what I want to do.

Can't wait for the upgrade.

[lawdawg]

Yes,

That second screen is sweet! Very TIVO-rific! 2.0 should be great!

[cmcjo]

This is too cool.
Should we expect it this week?

This looks like a much needed and less expensive alternative to the new Media center PC.

[mcascio]

I'm hoping to release MainLobby 2 in the next 48 hours or sooner if all goes well.

Glad you folks are enjoying the screenshots. I knew that would get you going. :) I've added alot of graphical buttons and backgrounds to the mix.

I noticed that you added a preset resolution for 1366x768. Can you also add one for 1024x576? I think that is a pretty common resolution for those of us doing 16x9 with an XGA projector.

Zak,
Consider it done!

Ditto! Are you taking any Beta testers?
Anyone who wants to partake in the possiblity of becoming a beta tester should send me an email (mario@cinemaronline.com) with your system specs including how you are controlling your computer, web tablets, remotes, software, etc. I have a few testers and won't need any before the release of ML2, but it's nice to know about you when the time comes.

[mzemina]

Mario!

You are the number one man! (No matter what your wife may say, grinning and ducking).

Exactly the UI I was looking for. Now it is time for me to brush aside some time to work on XML input so the Lobby products can have broadcast (TV-Guide-like) menus available. Lots of scripting work ahead!

Mike


Originally posted by mcascio
Hi all. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend.

Very productive day today for me.

I've been able to fix many of the bugs that were causing problems. I've also had time to add more buttons and background graphics for MainLobby.

Here are some sample screen shots of included interfaces and buttons.

[cmcjo]

Mario, will Photo Lobby Pro be released with 2.0 as well?

That also looks prommising.

[mcascio]

Mike,

I thought of the TV Guide idea a while back, but no time to implement. Have at her - that would be awesome.

Joe,
PhotoLobby Pro will not be available by the time ML2 hits the streets. Still more work to be done on that project. My goal is to get DVDLobby Pro 2 integrated into MainLobby's architecture first.

[mzemina]

I definitely won't be promising any time-frame for completion. I work at WorldCom and have my hands full currently. I want to be an active contributor and have my regular job, then a website I am trying to complete which is taking up alot of my extra (I don't even know what that term means most of the time) hours. I see this as a gratifying project though, you have done a GREAT job. Can't give you enough kudos!

Mike

Originally posted by mcascio
Mike,

I thought of the TV Guide idea a while back, but no time to implement. Have at her - that would be awesome.

Joe,
PhotoLobby Pro will not be available by the time ML2 hits the streets. Still more work to be done on that project. My goal is to get DVDLobby Pro 2 integrated into MainLobby's architecture first.

[mcascio]

Hey Mike,

No problem. I know how fast the days get eaten up.

I squeezed another new animated BackgroundFX into MainLobby 2. The TV rotates around slowly in the background.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot05.jpg

[s.morris]

Hi Mario,

What do you mean by this

My goal is to get DVDLobby Pro 2 integrated into MainLobby's architecture first.

are you planing to intergrate DVD lobby with Mainloby,


steve

[mcascio]

Hi Steve,

The beauty of MainLobby is that it contains all of the information about the users system as well as alot of the framework. Which means this doesn't have to be duplicated both in programming and in user input within DVDLobby. When I say integrate into MainLobby's architecture, it means that you'll just load DVDLobby Pro 2 into MainLobby 2 as a layer. This gives DVDLobby Pro 2 access to all of MainLobby 2 features as well as the ability to tap into all of the user settings and component configuration.

Initially, it's created 10x as much work for me to devise a solution like this, it makes the Suite more powerful and flexible going forward.

Because now you can trigger lights down before watching a movie, or add MainLobby buttons onto your DVDLobby Pro 2 scene. This also means DVDLobby Pro 2 will function much like MainLobby 2 in that you will be able to build as simple or complex Scenes as you like. Plus you won't have to load two separate .exes and everything will be contained within one seamless flow.

Hopefully this makes sense.

[mcascio]

It's official.

MainLobby 2.0 is now available. If you did not get an email regarding the upgrade, contact me and I can make sure I didn't goof up something. Or if your email address has changed recently.

I'm still working on updating the website with the latest news and info.

Can't wait to see what you all come up with.

[z.mash]

So, how many paypal confirmation emails have you gotten in the last hour? :D

Can't wait to start playing with the new release!

-Zak

[Thinker]

wHEN'S THE dvd LOBBY 2 UPDATE COMING?

[DueN]

Can MainLobby play a user-selected music when displaying a screen? For instance, can some music be played while displaying the main screen? And when the user navigates to another screen, another piece of music is played?

Can DVDLobbyPro do this? It would be very nice if the user navigates around to locate a movie, a theme song for that movie is played.

Sorry if this has been asked before. Glancing at the feature list, I didn't see it. I'm completely new to this [cool] software and would like to know about it as much as possible.

Thanks.

[mcascio]

Hey Zak,
You can certainly tell who the anxious ones are. :)

Thinker,
I don't have a definite date, but hopefully before year end DVDlobby Pro 2 will be available. One thing I've found though is that predicting accurate dates when developing software is next to impossible. One little bug can cost you tens to hundreds of unexpected hours before figuring it out.

DueN,
Everytime you change a Scene or Screen MainLobby will play an MP3 file.

As far as DVDLobby Pro, you would need to trigger the sound to play by pressing a keyboard shortcut, mouse or remote.

Welcome to the gang. It's a good time to be getting started.

[DueN]

Mario, for DVDLobbyPro, would there be the ability to attach an MP3 file to each thumbnail or DVDProfiler data in the future? As the thumbnail is selected or the DVDProfiler data screen is displayed, the MP3 file is played. Is it something that would be worthwhile?

Thanks.

[Wysocki]

Mario:
What's the upgrade procedure to 2.0? Should the INI file be overwritten/skipped and what about other files? Is anything in the registry? etc...?

[mdownard]

Must... contain... self... must... not... explode...

OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG!!!!!!!

Crap. Self-control didn't work.

I've been lurking around here for quite some time catching up on all of the threads and this is great news. I've been waiting for the release of the 2.0 versions of MainLobby and DVDLobby to build my HTPC and buy a few of the new Sony DVD changers. Looks like I won't have to wait much longer!

My goals are pretty simple. I have a large DVD library; I want an attractive, wife-compatible, easy-to-use interface for selection and launching. My bare minimums are sorting by genre or title, ease of entering titles into the library, and intuitive control via my ProntoPro. That's pretty much it.

With that in mind, can someone tell me if the listing of items below will fulfill this purpose, or if I am missing something? Obviously the "Home Theater PC" item is a whole discussion unto itself but I understand there are various decisions to be made there.

---MainLobby 2.0
---DVDLobby 2.0
---DVDProfiler 2.0
---Home Theater PC, likely with Radeon for component output to TV
---Two or three (or four...) Sony 300-disc DVD changers
---Slink-e and appropriate cables
---Automatic component video switcher (my Sony TV only has one HD input; was looking at the one at http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/1154.asp)

My only real fear based on what I've read so far is that the video switcher won't be smart enough to switch to the "active", i.e. playing, DVD changer. Anything else I'm missing?


Thanks,

Mike

[mcascio]

Hi Terry,
I would recommend backing up or renaming your old directory entirely - specifically your Scene files. Then unzip and unpack ML2 into a separate directory. Then you can just copy over .ini files and Scene files. As far as I know, you should have a problem using existing Scene and your old .ini file. There is a new directory called Library that needs to be created and should be when unzipping the files.

Nothing is currently being written to the registry. I'm still working on an install routine to simplify the entire process.

DueN,
It's possible that I could allow an option for the MP3 file to be played when the movie is active or when a button is pressed. I don't think it would be too difficult.

[Thinker]

Well, maybe you'd have more time to work on DVD Lobby if the Packers would start losing......

[Chris Fox]

Mike,

Like you, I worry about the AA1154's auto-switcher. It doesn't look to handle situations where devices send continuous signals. Since there is no IR, it is useless for this type of application.

The Inday component switch seems to be a better choice, since it has IR capability. I wish it had audio support built in (they do have an audio only switch on the horizon), but I think the Slinke can send IR commands to all necessary devices to make things work...

Chris

[Wysocki]

(How) can I resize the amount of space the TextFieldBox takes on the scene? As I pass the cursor through its area (very large!) the blue highlighting comes on and illuminates over the top of whatever's near it. Maybe the TextFieldBox shouldn't have any special effects associated with a mouseover.

Also, the screensaver only covers the right 80% of the 1024x768 screen.

[EDIT#1:] I just had to edit in one more comment, Mario. It seems to me your beta testers were sleeping. I've just been playing around a couple of hours with 2.0 and SEVERAL very strange things have been happening:

-- Buttons that were scaled, descaled until edited a second time, then rescaled.

-- Parts of scenes (buttons, etc) remain when changing scenes.

-- Slinke not showing lists of commands in the pulldowns.

-- Slinke commands not working.

And other bizarre behavior. I'll try to document these better and post them up here when I find the pattern.

[EDIT#2:] Found the button scaling problem: If you have a button scaled over 100%, save it. Then reedit the button but click on "cancel" instead of saving any changes. The button reverts to 100%.

[mcascio]

Must... contain... self... must... not... explode...

OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG!!!!!!!

Crap. Self-control didn't work.


Mike,
It happens to me all the time. :)

Sorting genres will be available in DVDLobby Pro 2. I'm still awaiting arrival of the new Sony DVD Changer. You can bet that all the Lobby products will be able to control that bad boy once it's in my hands. ;)

Thinker,
The Pack is back. It would have been an embarrasing day if they lost this past Sunday.

Wysocki,
I'm working on smarter textfield options. I actually had to go into every single button and rewrite the code in order to allow the user just to change the font, size and color. I think the text field needs refining - I'm always open to suggestions as to how you can see it integrate. Somehow I need to allow more control over how big the text field is and whether its multiline or not.

The screensaver is still an old one from the days of 1.0. It hasn't been high on me list to recreate it at a 4:3 ratio (currently 848x480) since nobody really complained. Let me know which one you would like recreated and I'll see if I can squeeze it in for you.

Unfortunately the beta testers didn't even get their hands on 2.0 before it's release. So some of the bugs may have been introduced during one of my 15 hour work days at 5 in the morning. :)

-- Buttons that were scaled, descaled until edited a second time, then rescaled.
I believe I've fixed the scaling bug you mentioned.

-- Parts of scenes (buttons, etc) remain when changing scenes.
Let me know if this is a problem occuring with using old scenes that haven't been resaved in Version 2.0 or if this bug is happening when starting from scratch. ANy other info may help me to troubleshoot.

-- Slinke not showing lists of commands in the pulldowns.
I just noticed this. I made a change just prior to the release that could have affected the Slinke controls. I'm on it.

[mdownard]

Originally posted by mdownard
My goals are pretty simple. I have a large DVD library; I want an attractive, wife-compatible, easy-to-use interface <snip>

---MainLobby 2.0
---DVDLobby 2.0
---DVDProfiler 2.0
---Home Theater PC, likely with Radeon for component output to TV
---Two or three (or four...) Sony 300-disc DVD changers
---Slink-e and appropriate cables <snip>

I've thought of one other thing. If Mario or someone else could address this question I'd be grateful.

Since the Sony changers cannot be daisy-chained, obviously the Slink-e will be talking to multiple devices. I'm making the assumption that somehow, within DVDLobby, I'll be able to tell it a "unit number" or something in addition to a slot number. Is that correct? And if so, how will the Slink-e know, for example, to send the "load disc 200 and play" command to changer 3 and not changers 1 and 2?

Just want to make sure I'm not overlooking something.


Can't wait to get started,

Mike

[mcascio]

Since the Sony changers cannot be daisy-chained, obviously the Slink-e will be talking to multiple devices. I'm making the assumption that somehow, within DVDLobby, I'll be able to tell it a "unit number" or something in addition to a slot number. Is that correct? And if so, how will the Slink-e know, for example, to send the "load disc 200 and play" command to changer 3 and not changers 1 and 2?

Hi Mike,
The way the Slinke works is that you would assign a unique device name to each of the changers. Such as dvd1, dvd2 and dvd3. Then each one could be called individually. dvd1:play, etc.
I don't know if I would advise you going out and purchasing 3 of the Sony DVD changers until I've had a chance to get my hands on my own and to know without a doubt that I will be able to control them flawlessly. I don't forsee any problems, but hey, you never know. Just looking out for your best interest.

[mdownard]

Originally posted by mcascio
I don't know if I would advise you going out and purchasing 3 of the Sony DVD changers until I've had a chance to get my hands on my own and to know without a doubt that I will be able to control them flawlessly. I don't forsee any problems, but hey, you never know. Just looking out for your best interest.

Wow. Now THAT is support. I will take your advice and hold off until you have verified that it's okay. Which probably makes sense since until DVDLobby 2.0 is ready I guess there's no reason for me to rush ahead. What can I say, I'm like a kid gearing up for a big trip to the toy store.


Thanks very much,

Mike

[drbenson]

Sent Pay Pal for upgrade yesterday, have not received yet today. How long is fullfillment taking, so I'll know when I need to make some calls if I haven't seen it?

[festivalman]

I know this is a troll post, but 3 Sony dvd changers? 900 DVD's? at 20 dollars a pop for the average dvd, that's 18 thousand dollars on movies. Who in their right mind would spend that much on dvd's when it's only another year or 2 until a new format with HD-DVD stuff comes out or whatever the next technology is?

[mcascio]

Originally posted by drbenson
Sent Pay Pal for upgrade yesterday, have not received yet today. How long is fullfillment taking, so I'll know when I need to make some calls if I haven't seen it?

It looks like your email bounced back. I tried resending it a few moments ago. Send me another email if you don't get it.

I know this is a troll post, but 3 Sony dvd changers? 900 DVD's? at 20 dollars a pop for the average dvd, that's 18 thousand dollars on movies. Who in their right mind would spend that much on dvd's when it's only another year or 2 until a new format with HD-DVD stuff comes out or whatever the next technology is?

festivalman,
You had to put that in perspective. :)
Ouch. I've made a practice of only buying DVDs around $15.99 which lately isn't too hard to even get the latest releases at this price. So for the record, that's only $14k for 900 DVDs. :D

[mdownard]

Originally posted by festivalman
I know this is a troll post, but 3 Sony dvd changers? 900 DVD's? at 20 dollars a pop for the average dvd, that's 18 thousand dollars on movies. Who in their right mind would spend that much on dvd's when it's only another year or 2 until a new format with HD-DVD stuff comes out or whatever the next technology is?


I will resist the urge to take the flame-bait here by simply stating that your post makes the assumption that I am in my right mind. :P


Mike

[mdownard]

Mario (or anyone else with an opinion),

In preparation for my inevitable migration to DVDLobby 2, I was going to go ahead and populate DVDProfiler 2.01 (bought it today) with my collection.

Would that be a good move or would I be wasting time, since I'll have to go back and enter the changer/slot number later?


Mike

[mcascio]

Mike,
I don't think you'll be wasting your time entering in your collection. You might pick up one of those bar code scanners to help automate the process. I believe the average is about 300-400 dvds entered in about an hour.

You'll just import the file into DVDLobby Pro 2. What you might do is enter in the slot number in one of DVDProfilers fields just for your own reference.

[mzemina]

Mario,

Are the $15.99 DVDs also the retail $29.99 special edition DVDs? I can only get these down to $19.49, must I wait? What are you doing to get down to this price on the more expensive movies?

Mike

Originally posted by mcascio
festivalman,
You had to put that in perspective. :)
Ouch. I've made a practice of only buying DVDs around $15.99 which lately isn't too hard to even get the latest releases at this price. So for the record, that's only $14k for 900 DVDs. :D

[boykster]

Mike,

I second the recommendation for the Inday Component switch (remote version)...I bought one a month ago or so to switch inputs on my 42" panny plasma (only 1 component in)...you can either use a pronto (that's what I use) or setup the slinke to switch inputs based on some logic...no guessing if it will switch automatically or not...

Looking forward to DVDLobby 2!

Rich

[mcascio]

Hey Mike,

Unfortunately $15.99 wouldn't get you one of the Special Edition DVDs. I recently bought MIBII and Ice Age. I'm pretty sure they were $15.99 each from Target.

Blockbuster and Family Video are also good places to pick up previously viewed DVDs.

There's also a video store down the street from me that rents any movie for $1 for 5 days including new releases. It's hard to buy movies when the prices are slow low for renting. So I'm only buying the ones I've already viewed or are gotta haves.

[drbenson]

I'd just like to know where Mike is going to find even 400 DVDs that are worth viewing, much less buying! And where does he find the time to look at them all?

On the other hand, Costco does have the 4-disk Lord of the Rings extended cut for 25 bucks right now....

[mdownard]

Originally posted by drbenson
I'd just like to know where Mike is going to find even 400 DVDs that are worth viewing, much less buying!

I already have about 500. I like to entertain friends and family. Based upon your logic of course, the product development, marketing, and R&D divisions of Sony, Kenwood, and other mega-changer manufacturers are out of their minds, because surely they have no customers.

Originally posted by drbenson
And where does he find the time to look at them all?

With respect - don't see how this (or my finances referenced in your earlier post) could possibly concern you. I think we can agree that you would not set up your theater the way I am setting up mine, and we can also probably agree that fact doesn't particularly bother either of us.


Take care (and forgive the sarcasm),

Mike

[mcascio]

Hey Mike,

I think I remember reading someone had a combination of 10,000 dvds and LDs in their collection. So really, you've got a long way to go Mike. :D

Being in this industry, I have come across quite a few other people who need 3 or 4 changers to hold their collection.

Nothing wrong with it and more power to you. :)

[cmcjo]

Yeah, there are posts in this forum that mention how many dvd's that people own. I own around 150 or so DVD's and that pales in comparison to most other DVD's collections. Some mentioned upwards of 2000 DVD's and growing.

[drbenson]

Mike- Absolutely nothing wrong with it- and that was never my suggestion. Nor did I mean to question your lifestyle or spending patterns. Sorry if I offended.

My comment grew out of meandering down aisle after aisle of DVDs at Blockbuster or Hollywood, trying to find even one or two worth renting on a given evening. I thought you must have a special industry connection that gets you the good stuff the rest of us never see!

[cmcjo]

I Just wanted to post this thread showing about 47 people responding to there DVD collections.
Someone has 1500. How's that for a habit?
http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc-dvd/thread.cgi?keywords=1090&highlight=collection|dvd

[JimmyMack]

drbenson,

First of all, you're definitely shopping at the wrong places. If you were a true cinema lover you would be searching thru the delightful choices of Netflix or one of the many other online rental sites. Blockbuster's choices are so narrow - limited to only mass market blockbusters - it is no wonder you're having problems. Right now, I have over 250 movies in my rental queue at Netflix and that's not including the many many movies I've already rented in the last 2 years. Either your taste in movies is severely restricted or you need to widen out your search net.

[mcascio]

Can anyone running MainLobby 2 and the Slinke confirm whether they are having problems?

Wysocki,
Are you still having problems?
Try shutting down MainLobby 2 and then reloading it. Also, make sure you still have the Enable Slinke ActiveX checkbox checked.

Let me know.

[boykster]

Quick ML question....

I've been playing around with 2.0 a bit today....is there any way to scale buttons in one dimension only (ie 150% in the X axis, but 100% in the Y)?

I'm trying to mock up DVDLobby, but I'd like to have some wider buttons than are currently available, but I like their height...just want them wider...

Cheers,

Rich

[mcascio]

Rich,

I tried to, excuse the pun, "squeeze" that in ML2. It caused all sorts of problems for some reason. I need to spend more time with it. It should get into a future release though.

PS Thanks for the email on my Slinke question. I hope to play around tonight.

[boykster]

Cool, thanks...I think I can use the textarea for what I want to do (as the text will only be 1 line that I need wider, and it should be wide enough) and just center the text/button to get the effect I'm looking for.

Good luck with the slinke...let me know if you need any more info on that..

Rich

[Wysocki]

One problem that I had with Slinke I traced to the fact that I had switched to a non-existant mls file. Didn't get an error but everything went weird. One problem I DO have with Slinke is with the CM11A and dim/bright commands. They don't work. My device file includes the following:

#A1 livingroom_ceiling LIGHTS
on[a1]:livingroom_ceiling_on
off[a1]:livingroom_ceiling_off
bright[a1,1]:livingroom_ceiling_bright
dim[a1,1]:livingroom_ceiling_dim

The on and off commands work thru Slinke but not the dim/bright. However, ALL the commands work if I use Girder. Keep in mind I'm running ML on a Progear to the htpc.

Unrelated problem still with the text fields. They are huge and overlay my buttons rendering them unreachable. I might edit the mls file and try to move them into the background to see if this helps.

[mcascio]

Terry,

It looks like the anything after the comma isn't recognized.

Does this work?

x10:dim[b5]

This would dim light b5.
I'll see what I can for the textfield option.

[Wysocki]

Yes the dim[b5] did work, must be the comma. Now how do I do a dim[b5,10] ?

As far as the text fields, I feel they shouldn't behave as buttons. That is, they shouldn't respond to mouseovers nor accept clicks. I'm trying to move one to the background. Is the "Z" order of the objects determined by their ID or by their physical order in the mls file?

[mcascio]

Terry,
I'll have to do some debugging and see how I can get the variable after the comma working.

The "Z" order is based on the button Number. So if it's the first button, it's on the bottom. Eventually you'll be able to change the z order which should make it a lot easier than it is now.

After seeing you trying to get your lighting going, it inspired me to do one for my theater

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot06.jpg

This looks really sharp on my 8 foot screen!

Eventually I'd like to use Flash and some of my 3D expertise to make a 3D model of my entire house that you spin around and click on lights where ever they are. Kind of like a virtual lighting model.

[mcascio]

Just a reminder, make sure you ML2 users Open up all the new Scene files included with MainLobby 2. If you don't, you're missing out on a lot. :)

[drbenson]

Mario, finally had a few minutes to play with ML2, and I've got myself in a spot I can't get out of. I was working on a main page for my HTPC based on *-skin04.mls. All seemed to be going well, I added an Exit button to simply close ML2 to get back to the desktop, and after saving I tested the exit button. Big mistake. When I restarted ML2, it had grown to an enormous size that didn't fit on my screen. Only part of the scene is visible. Now I can't even get to most of the options on the left half of the screen. There seems to be no way to move anything around using the mouse in order to get to them. My HDTV is running 1024x768. I guess I'll delete the ML2 subdirectory and start over, but I sure would like to know what I did wrong!

Couple of small bugs I've noticed already: If you check Use Slink-e Server, the server window comes up and stays on top of the ML scene. Has to be manually minimized, which is inelegant for a product that's supposed to hide the guts of HTPC complexity.

The Time button does not seem to be able to change font/size/color, and displays minutes less than 10 incorrectly, e.g. 1:9 rather than 1:09.

Is there any way to construct a 'pick list' of playlists? I'd like to be able to set up playlists for CDJ and Media Jukebox, then pick 'em from a list on screen and have them play.

[mcascio]

drbenson,
Not sure what happened. Chances are your mainlobby.ini file became corrupted somehow. You probably could have just deleted that file (or even edited it with a text editor) and then reloaded MainLobby which would have just taken on default settings.

My suggestion for the Slinke Server would be to put it in your Startup settings. I imagine there is a way to get it to load minimized somehow or a way to change how it opens from the Slinke settings. I don't think I can control how it opens since it is built into the ActiveX.

I have yet to see the Time displayed wrong on my system. What OS are you running? Can you let me know the exact time that is displaying wrong or is it everything with two digit minutes? I need to set this up for font changing. Forgot to squeeze that in when I rewrote all the other buttons.

I imagine for your playlist construction you are looking for a way to automate it. There currently isn't a way unless you have some programming experience. I know at least one other person has written a program that scans a directory and populates hundreds of scenes for MainLobby. It might just be a matter of repurposing that. I do plan on integrating a browse feature that would then help populate buttons on a page based on the contents of that folder. It might be a ways off though for your immediate needs.

[boykster]

As far as the slinke serv thing goes...

you could create a shortcut to slinkeserv (or make a copy of the one in the programs->slinke->dev tools) and put it in your startup group. Then edit the properties so that it starts minimized, rather than full screen...it won't go "to the tray", but it will sit in your taskbar....not quite as elegant as it could be, but it would work (especially if you have mainlobby hide the taskbar).

It is interesting how why it's doing that, however, when cdj calls slinkeserv (if you use slinkeserv with cdj that is) it goes straight to the tray, and when I create a slinkeserv object in my programming projects (VB) it also goes straight to the tray...wierd.

Rich

[boykster]

I got the clock digit bug today...just fired it up to show someone, and there it was time -> 3:9

here's a snapshot....

Rich

[mcascio]

Hey Rich,

Thanks for the tip on starting SlinkeServ. I thought there was a way to do that. Not sure why it opens maximized when I call the ActiveX. ???

Also, thanks for the clock screenshot. I'll have to see what the deal is with that when I get "time". :)

[vbich]

Hi Mario.

Can something be done to make buttons appear first time as they are defined in a scene? I have a 800x600 screen, that's why all my buttons are scaled down, and when ML starts, it shows all the buttons in their original size and then jumps back to the 50% I told them to be. It just does not look good.

Also, is there any way to disable "Loading MainLobby" screen during the initial load? On my screen it shows as something like "Loading Ma" (apparently it does not scale)

May be just blank the screen completely until the scene is scaled and is ready to be shown?

Thanks.

[PGPFan]

Hi Mario,

I seem to be having a little trouble launching TheaterTek with 2.0.

I have the config set ok, but when it is launched I see the 'frame' of an application that flashes momentarily and then TT opens as expected.

This occurs too fast to recognize the application that is making the 'frame' but it sure takes away the "coolness" of the MainLobby whenever I play a DVD.

I believe this may have been fixed in previous releases and has popped up again, if I remember correctly.

Is anyone else seeing this with TheaterTek?

Thanks!

-PGPfan

[mcascio]

Vadim,

Perhaps I'm misunderstanding you, but I set my display to 800x600. Then set a button to scale to 50%. Saved the Scene. Then hit the Back button twice to see it reload. The button comes in appropriately sized and doesn't rescale that I can see.

Are you running on an extremely slow computer?
What are your current display settings?

I really put that LOADING in there so I could troubleshoot the possiblity if MainLobby would hang or not. I can remove that in the next revision.

PGPFan,
I recently picked up an HTPC running WinXP Pro and TheaterTek. I've noticed varied results when loading TheaterTek also. Was it working 100% of the time on version 1.71?
One thing you could try is loading TheaterTek through a batch file. Let me know if this works as I haven't had a chance to test the theory out yet.

I'll look into the code and see what may have changed to cause such a problem.

[mcascio]

Hey everyone,

I've already got some new features ready to go in the next free revision of ML2:
> X & Y Coordinates of mouse display in corner when in Design & Edit mode for placing of buttons
> New Buttons
> Mouse Pointer hides after 5 seconds of inactivity (Nice for people using a remote)
> New MLcmd: Turn Off Montior - shut off your monitor when your movie is about to begin
> BUGFIX: Scaling Problem is now fixed when hitting cancel
> Removed Loading MainLobby graphic

[PGPFan]

Hi Mario,

I have the momentary window 'frame' flashing fixed. All I did was put a checkmark in the "shell" option. Much better now!

The new features look great, and I have an idea for another!

I use a remote exclusively to operate my HTPC and I'm currently using the 'scene_04.mls' that you provided. It looks GREAT until I have to navigate using "tab" (that yellow box issue). Anyhow, I notice that transparency is supported for buttons now. How about making the yellow box transparent when in launch mode?

Is this possible?

-PGPfan

[mcascio]

Hey PGPFan,

So your TheaterTek is loading 100% of the time now with the shell box checked - correct?
What OS are you running?

The yellow Box is certainly something I'm not too proud of but really not something I'm adding, it's something Flash does. If you are using Scene 4, a crowd favorite :), you could just use your remote to simulate an up (SHiftTab) and down (TAB) action. Make sure to uncheck the arrow keys box. Let me know if you need further clarification. When arrow keys are turned off, and the tab/shift-tab is used, there is no yellow box.

I'm still researching a better way to utilize the arrow keys without the yellow box.

Laz mentioned a product called Xara3D for those of you wanting to customize and create your own animations and 3D titles. It's an inexpensive package too - no where near the cost of FlashMX:
http://www.xara.com/products/xara3d/

BTW, I forgot to mention another feature that was added:
> Launch an MLS scene by clicking on the MLS file from Explorer just by clicking on it. THis will open ML with the MLS loaded. (I'm also working on a way to open a Scene into an already opened MainLobby)

BTW, is anyone still running multiple instances of MainLobby on the same machine for one reason or another. I'd have to make it so there can only be one instance of MainLobby in order to get the above feature working properly as far opening a Scene into an already opened MainLobby.

[PGPFan]

Hi Mario,

Correct about TT, it seems to be 100% good. The OS is XP PRO with Service Pack 1 installed. What is 'shell' designed to actually do?

Thanks!

-PGPfan

[mdownard]

Mario,

While waiting for DVDLobby2, I went ahead and populated my DVDProfiler2 database and installed the current version of DVDLobby as well as the Menu Editor utility (BTW, I'm an Access programmer myself and the gentleman that wrote the Menu Editor util did a great job).

I installed these on my Compaq notebook and used simple S-Video out to my TV, just to get an idea of how things will come together. Surprisingly, with the PC running at 800x600 resolution DVDLobby really doesn't look half bad on my Sony 61" HDTV.

Anyway this has led me to wonder three things:

---Is there any advantage to me going ahead and buying MainLobby 2.0 before DVDLobby 2.0 is out, if I'm using it pretty much exclusively for DVDs? In other words are there other "preparations" I could make by going ahead and getting MainLobby now, or should I just wait?

---In DVDLobby2, will there be an option to view a text-based listing of movies in addition to the thumbnails? It would be great to have the option to, for example, press a button that says "View DVD Listing by Genre" or "View DVD Listing by Title" to quickly scroll through the library. Clicking on the title would perform the same action as clicking on the thumbnail.

This would be a great feature for speed, and also because sometimes it's not immediately apparent from the Cover Art just what the movie is!

---I have a fairly sizable (but not huge) collection of Laserdiscs. Would it make any sense to add these to DVDLobby? The idea would be that for those titles, when the user clicks, instead of it going to the Slinke/Sony changers and loading the disc, it would display a message along the lines of "Please insert laserdisc to continue".

Well anyway keep up the good work... it's already pretty clear to me that this is the solution I've been looking for!

Mike

[vbich]

Hi Mario,

My screen is 800x600x32, my scene is scaled down to fit 800x600. Each button is scaled down 50%. When I first start ML, the scene loads unscaled and then instantly jumps to fit the screen (as it was supposed to be). After detailed investigation I understood that it may be the whole scene that is displayed with a wrong size, not just buttons, because the spaces between buttons change proprotionally. It happens right after "Loading" screen and (at least it seems so) before the background jpg is shown. It does not happen when scenes change, only when the first scene loads.

My comp is P4 1.6Ghz/256 MB with nothing processor-hungry running (only the usual things, like WinXP, girder, drivers)

Thanks.

[Shawn Pilichis]

Mike

I am using MainLobby for laserdisc's because I can have a special instance of dScaler for LD's. In the future you may find that MainLobby could be a nice front end to watch TV, Laserdisc or DVD's through DVD Lobby.

Right now I have two Dscalers running on my HD and both are separately configured to match my TV and Laserdisc needs.

[Thinker]

Mario,

DVD Lobby Menu Editor doesn't work for me, Larry says you'll have all that in DVD Lobby 2 (ability to interface with DVD Profiler) Is this true.

If we prepay now for DVDLobby2 can we be beta testers?

I really feel stuck...

[mcascio]

Originally posted by PGPFan
Hi Mario,

Correct about TT, it seems to be 100% good. The OS is XP PRO with Service Pack 1 installed. What is 'shell' designed to actually do?

Thanks!

-PGPfan

That's good to hear. I'm still having varied results but need to tinker some more. I've noticed when TheaterTek doesn't load, it's always after a fresh boot. It seems like once attempted at least once, it works fine afterwards.
The shell is usually a good solution for programs that don't open for some reason or another without it checked to put it in simplest terms. It seemed to work when opening IE.

While waiting for DVDLobby2, I went ahead and populated my DVDProfiler2 database and installed the current version of DVDLobby as well as the Menu Editor utility (BTW, I'm an Access programmer myself and the gentleman that wrote the Menu Editor util did a great job).

Mike,

Yes - Dan did a great job with his Menu Editor.

---Is there any advantage to me going ahead and buying MainLobby 2.0 before DVDLobby 2.0 is out, if I'm using it pretty much exclusively for DVDs? In other words are there other "preparations" I could make by going ahead and getting MainLobby now, or should I just wait?

Well there's a lot of things you can do with MainLobby 2 alone. And since you'll need this to run DVDLobby Pro 2, you'd at least have a jump start and not have to learn both programs at once. Although, ML2 is pretty simplistic to get going. It does move up a level of difficulty when you start talking about integrating Girder, other computers, Remote Desktop, etc.

Since you've already gotten DVDLobby Pro working with your entire collection, you could start by making an interface front-end or using one of my preconfigured/designed Scenes. Then use it to launch DVDLobby Pro and other programs you might plan to have in your theater. I know you mentioned just using it for DVDLobby, but there is so much more once you start playing around. You might want to add your theater name to the background graphic, find sound effects, build a remote control, etc.

If you plan on picking up a Slinke, it probably doesn't hurt to start learning how all this integrates into MainLobby 2.

It sounds to me like you can't wait. :) Personally, if I had the time, I could spend hours upon hours just tweaking interfaces and playing around because it is a lot of fun.

---In DVDLobby2, will there be an option to view a text-based listing of movies in addition to the thumbnails? It would be great to have the option to, for example, press a button that says "View DVD Listing by Genre" or "View DVD Listing by Title" to quickly scroll through the library. Clicking on the title would perform the same action as clicking on the thumbnail.

I do plan on having text based listings as well as thumbnails. All with the ability to sort by Genre, title, etc.

---I have a fairly sizable (but not huge) collection of Laserdiscs. Would it make any sense to add these to DVDLobby? The idea would be that for those titles, when the user clicks, instead of it going to the Slinke/Sony changers and loading the disc, it would display a message along the lines of "Please insert laserdisc to continue".

Someone else had asked about including a prompt message. I believe this could already be done using Girder even with DVDLobby Pro 1.21d through a batch file calling a girder event. But I think an integrated solution within DVDLobby Pro 2 would be doable. I'm going to add it to my to-do list.

[mcascio]

Originally posted by vbich
Hi Mario,

My screen is 800x600x32, my scene is scaled down to fit 800x600. Each button is scaled down 50%. When I first start ML, the scene loads unscaled and then instantly jumps to fit the screen (as it was supposed to be). After detailed investigation I understood that it may be the whole scene that is displayed with a wrong size, not just buttons, because the spaces between buttons change proprotionally. It happens right after "Loading" screen and (at least it seems so) before the background jpg is shown. It does not happen when scenes change, only when the first scene loads.

My comp is P4 1.6Ghz/256 MB with nothing processor-hungry running (only the usual things, like WinXP, girder, drivers)

Thanks.

Vadim,
I haven't been able to reproduce the effect. Could you email me your mainlobby.ini file as well as your MLS file?

Has anyone else noticed this?

One solution might be to make sure your background is scaled to 800x600 using a paint program so it doesn't have to rescale if you have it anything less than 100% scaling under OPTIONS | SCENE.

Another idea is that you could just put one button on the first Scene that always gets loaded into MainLobby first. Don't scale it. This would just be something like an enter button that would lead to the next scene.
Yet another option, depending upon your situation is to leave the Scene open like a Kiosk. (Perhaps not a viable solution in your situation)

Thinker,
Larry wrote DVDLobby Pro Menu Maker, not DVDLobby Pro Menu Editor (Somewhat confusing and just one word different). My memory slips me, but have you tried DVDLobby Pro Menu Editor written by Dan? It would require MSAccess.

Yes - DVDLobby Pro 2 will import the info from DVDprofiler 2 pretty painlessly.

I prefer not to take any prepay offers until a beta is ready to go. Send me an email with your current system setup and how you plan to control DVDLobby Pro 2, screen resolution, etc. and something that notes you'd like to be part of the DVDLobby Pro 2 beta test program.

[mdownard]

Originally posted by mcascio
It sounds to me like you can't wait. :) Personally, if I had the time, I could spend hours upon hours just tweaking interfaces and playing around because it is a lot of fun.

You sold me :) Sent PayPal for Slinke and MainLobby 2. Thanks for all your time.


Mike

[KRavEN]

Mario,

Would you be willing to post a .fla file for a simple button so that we can just edit the graphics to look like we want and then use the resulting exported swf file in main lobby?

I've not been able to get any of my swf buttons to work in mainlobby. I can get them to show, but can't drag them around in design view, and can't get text to show on them. I'm pretty sure it's because they don't have the correct actionscript to interact properly with mainlobby.

If no fla, could you post some sort of flash guidelines for making buttons that work with mainlobby?

[mcascio]

Mike,

Thanks very much. You've got mail. :)

KRavEN,
I'll put together an .fla. Are your running Flash5 or FlashMX?

Can you give me more insight into what you are attempting to do as far as importing your own buttons as well?
Are you trying to just import a graphic or a button that has rollover effects?
What do you mean you can't get the text to show on them?

The label won't display anything on the button without setting that up in the actionscript. You could however add text in your own button.
Are you trying to have one button that can be used multiple times on one Scene?

I'll need to show everyone how the Custom Library works through a sample FLA. This is very cool and should make those who want to use Flash and MainLobby a killer combo.

For those of you having the problems display the TIME through MainLobby, one user suggested the following:
"Suggest to the folks to look how their computer is displaying time. To do
this, go to START - SETTINGS - CONTROL PANEL. There, select REGIONAL
OPTIONS. There you will find a TIME Tab and the first line is the Time
Format. They should make sure that the time being displayed is in the
"hh:mm:ss tt" format. This could be their solution."

Let me know if this works for those of you having the problem.

[mcascio]

KRavEN,

I've uploaded a zip file which includes a sample FLA file.
http://www.cinemaronline.com/mainlobbytips.html

It will load into Flash5 or FlashMX.

I may be modifying some code to accomodate DVDLobby Pro 2 so I didn't include some code that could affect the text and font. I set it up so you can pick and embed your own font, color choice and alignment. So keep in mind, that you won't be affecting those variables in the button. The nice thing is no matter what I do down the road, it won't affect your button. You do have the ability to use the Button Label field though with the button I've created for you.

[KRavEN]

That is EXACTLY what I was looking for!!! Thanks so much Mario.

I am using FlashMX. I'm trying to create a tivo look-a-like interface. The buttons are invisible until they are tabbed to or moused over. That way when your using a remote to navigate it will appear as if the button is moving down the screen to the different selection fileds. I will be using the same button a few times on each screen.

[scottdw]

Mario,
I am trying to trigger a button in MainLobby with girder. I have a pocketpc using netremote and want to be able to trigger (push) buttons in MainLobby using Netremote to Girder to MainLobby.
Example:
I have a Play Movies button in MainLobby and assigned a hotkey of 1 to this button.
I setup girder to send 1 under the keyboard section of girder. I set it up to target MainLobby and made sure it worked by targeting the window and clicking the "find" button in the target selector window of girder and it did see MainLobby.

At this point I run a "Test Command" to make sure it works and it says the Key was sent but it does not do anything in MainLobby.
I also tested MainLobby by launching it and manually pressing 1 and it does trigger the event MainLobby is supposed to.

Any help would be great!!!
Thanks,
Scott

[vbich]

Scott,

Are you sure that ML has a focus when you are sendnig a keypress to it? I was unable to target ML from girder unless it has a focus. You may also want to try "send to foreground window" checkbox in girder.

[scottdw]

Vadim,
Thanks for the reply. I am still very new to and learning girder so pardon my lack of knowledge. I see the set focus option under the "window" tab but what do I do just select "Set Focus" and then target MainLobby, I tried this and it did bring MainLobby into focus but either the keystorke was not executed or MainLobby did not except it because nothing happened. Do I use the "Set Focus" in the same command as the keystroke I am trying to send. Also I don't uderstand what the "send to foreground window" option is supposed to do.

Thanks for any help.

[scottdw]

I got the "send to foreground window" firgured out and that did work but it would be nice if there was a way to target it.

Thanks for the help!!!!

[Wysocki]

Hey, Mario! When will we be getting some of these updates/fixes you've been working on?

[dreicher]

Mario,

First off...I wanted to commend you on another excellent release to MainLobby. With every upgrade comes a new breath of inspiration - and I don't inspire easily....perspire, but that's for another time and place.

BTW: My hidden agenda here is to actually subscribe to this thread. :)

It seems MainLobby 2 has generated quite a bit of buzz and I hope you're seeing the commercial success that you much deserve. I'm sure everyone naming their first born after you is nice, but at the end of the day - it's still about the money!

DVDLobby 2? Seeing a lot of questions about it. There used to be a Wish List on this forum, but that was a LONG time ago. Can we maybe start to put together a cohesive wish list again. My understanding right now is Profiler 2 import, genre sort, view by genre, "direct" girder support (no more black command boxes) are all "functioning" - so what else does everyone want to see? BTW, I hear the ability to edit titles from within DVDLobby is almost complete. ;) You're going to have a very captive market looking at systems over the holidays :)

On another note, and maybe it's because I've got a wife and kids - GET SOME SLEEP MAN! 1) You're no good to any of us dead 2) Don't get so wrapped up in ML2, DVDLobby 2, etc. that you end up having to spend a lot of time working on Wife #2 :)

As for MainLobby 2...some miscellaneous ramblings:

1) PVR. Anyone know of a good place to get TV listings in XML format. I've got a good understanding of XML and Flash and would be happy to work on some sort of interface to marry the two.

2) NTN. That's right - everyone's favorite bar trivia. I would love to see a multiplayer NTN-type trivia game to play at home with a couple of extra Progears :) This, of course, would entail the use of some sort of XML socket server, but I think it could be done.

So far, we've put Tivo and NTN out of business - who else? Let's start pushing the envelope a little bit.

Dan

[KRavEN]

Take a look at xmltv http://sourceforge.net/projects/xmltv

Works really well and it would be great to have something that would schedule hipix recordings through mainlobby. Might also be possible to view the hipix overlay window in mainlobby for channel surfing.

[vbich]

Scott,

I am by no means a girder guru, and I am struggling with targeting ML from girder too :)

So far I've been able to send keystrokes to ML by using "send to foreground window" option only, I was unable to do it any other way. Apparently, girder uses different methods for sending keystrokes to the foreground window and to non-foreground one, and only the first method works with ML.

Right now I am looking for a way to check what window is foreground and if it is ML, then I would enable a group sending keys to ML (actually to any top window, but since I checked before, it must be ML). The group would be disabled if ML is not a top window, that's how I think I can avoid sending TAB, ShiftTAB and spaces to any top window and send them only to ML.

If you know how to do it or have a better idea I'd like to hear it!

Other workaround is to beg Mario to provide us with a way to move focus and press buttons from a command line (I can dream, can't I? );)

Thanks.

[dreicher]

KRavEN,

I took a look at that a few days back, and kind of dismissed it because I thought there would be something easier. What a MISTAKE that was! That is beautiful! I'm going to try some things over the next couple of days, but at this point it is very conceivable to make an interactive TV Guide with the ability to view, set recordings out to ShowShifter or equivalent, etc.

How very exciting. Some stats:

Full channel lineups for 2 days, for a full cable lineup in my area (~70 channels) took about 2 1/2 minutes to download and created a 1.2MB XML file. Flash can parse that in about 20 seconds on my P4 1.8 and about 1.5 minutes on one of my Progears. So after the initial setup, user intervention should be no more than pressing an "Update" button and reloading the XML file. Unfortunately 2 weeks of information would multiply the download/processing time by 7 - that could get a little ridiculous, but it's better than we had yesterday. :)

Anywho, great find - I'll get to work.

Dan

[scottdw]

Thanks Vadim,
Right now the only way I know is the "send to foreground window" option that you pointed out to me, thank you very much by the way.
I have no doubt that Mario will address this any day now. The man is a busy worker but never dodge's any questions, so I will just wait to hear from him and continue to try to play around with it and figure it out.

Again thanks for your help!!!
Scott

[BernieBl1]

Hi Mario,

I was setting up MainLobby last night and I have the need to change at least the font color of the Time button. Is there a way to do this? If not, do you think that you could implement in the upcoming wish lists?

THanks
Bernie

[scottdw]

I was going to ask the same question!!!!

Thanks,
Scott

[mcascio]

Originally posted by KRavEN
That is EXACTLY what I was looking for!!! Thanks so much Mario.

I am using FlashMX. I'm trying to create a tivo look-a-like interface. The buttons are invisible until they are tabbed to or moused over. That way when your using a remote to navigate it will appear as if the button is moving down the screen to the different selection fileds. I will be using the same button a few times on each screen.

KRaveN,
Happy to be of assistance. Be sure to post what you come up with. :)

Guys,
I'm going to do some troubleshooting and see why/how ML is being affected and or not receiving focus when it's first loaded.

Hey, Mario! When will we be getting some of these updates/fixes you've been working on?

Terry,
Not sure yet. I'll keep ya posted though. I'll try to release a free update soon.


It seems MainLobby 2 has generated quite a bit of buzz and I hope you're seeing the commercial success that you much deserve. I'm sure everyone naming their first born after you is nice, but at the end of the day - it's still about the money!

Dan - I'm sure there have been a lot of first born named Mario, unfortunately, I don't think they knew me me or it was because of me. :)

I'll dig around on the forum for the old DVDLobby Wishlist thread and try to revive it to bring back all the feature requests Dan.

1) PVR. Anyone know of a good place to get TV listings in XML format. I've got a good understanding of XML and Flash and would be happy to work on some sort of interface to marry the two.

You da man Dan!

2) NTN. That's right - everyone's favorite bar trivia. I would love to see a multiplayer NTN-type trivia game to play at home with a couple of extra Progears This, of course, would entail the use of some sort of XML socket server, but I think it could be done.

Well - I certainly have enough friends that drink beer and would love to be beta testers of your bar trivia. :D

Full channel lineups for 2 days, for a full cable lineup in my area (~70 channels) took about 2 1/2 minutes to download and created a 1.2MB XML file. Flash can parse that in about 20 seconds on my P4 1.8 and about 1.5 minutes on one of my Progears. So after the initial setup, user intervention should be no more than pressing an "Update" button and reloading the XML file. Unfortunately 2 weeks of information would multiply the download/processing time by 7 - that could get a little ridiculous, but it's better than we had yesterday.

Dan - any way to speed this up somehow. Is XML the best/fastest way to import this info? Would the socket server speed things up?

Bernie and Scottdw,
I'll work on updating the Time button to the new format that I implemented in Version 2 of MainLobby. Has anyone tried the recommendation on fixing the display of the time who were having problems?

[mcascio]

BTW,

Some of you were wondering how you could control serial devices from within MainLobby. I spoke to a ML user today on the phone who said he has done this successfully using the Girder Serial Plugin. Ken Woodrow - I know you wanted this ability.

He also mentioned he was able to control the Ocelot through Girder!

[dreicher]

Mario,

Unfortunately, of the two options for importing (text v. xml) - xml is the fastest. Coupled with the fact that the information comes in formatted XML, it is going to be by far the easier. Like DL2, I think the best course of action is a one-time load dumped into the ML root that stays persistent as long as ML is open - even if scene jumping. The only thing the socket server would give us here would be the ability to send partial information from a master file on a more "as-needed" basis.

As for bar trivia, it's a matter of finding someone much more intelligent than I to work out the details of the socket server. Anyone? Anyone? I, like you I'm sure, wish I had as many Progears as I do beer-drinking buddies. :)

TV system is underway. Give me an hour and I should have it all wrapped up. :)

Dan

[z.mash]

OK, Dan, the hour is up! ;) Just kidding- actually, I have a question: Will what you are creating allow me to launch a program of my choice to display the selected show?

Thanks,
-Zak

[mcascio]

Hey Everyone,

First the bad news. I've depricated the Time Button. So if you've added this to your Scene, it won't show up with this next upgrade. If it's not the last button you added, you'll need to hide it or just let ML load it and you'll have a blank field. You could also replace it with some of the new time features available.

Now on to the good news. I've added the ability to change the font/color/size, etc as well as more time functions. Now you have total control over the hour, time, seconds and year. The last two features were never available.

Dan,
Looking forward to your masterpiece.

[scottdw]

Ok stupid question.
If I am using Tab and Shift-Tab via a remote I can move thru the menu's but how do I push a button? I thought I would use Enter but that does not work.

Thanks,
Scott

[dreicher]

z.mash,

Initially, I'm more focusing on an interactive TV Guide type deal. After that, I can certainly start adding functionality for sending command line strings out based on what it needs to do. So, in a word - yes. In another word - eventually.

Dan

[vbich]

Scott,

I have found that unless I check "arrow keys" in ML, I cannot use keyboard to press a button. (If you do not see that infamous yellow box around your buttons, this option is off).

I emailed Mario about this issue, hopefully he fixes it in the coming update.

Thanks.

[scottdw]

Vadim,
Thanks that did work but it would be great to do that without the yellow boxes.
Hopefully Mario will fix this, I am sure he will.

Scott

[mcascio]

Hey Guys,

I'm still working on a fix for the "ENTER" button when the arrow keys box isn't checked.

[mcascio]

Originally posted by vbich
Scott,

I have found that unless I check "arrow keys" in ML, I cannot use keyboard to press a button. (If you do not see that infamous yellow box around your buttons, this option is off).

I emailed Mario about this issue, hopefully he fixes it in the coming update.

Thanks.

Hey Everyone,

Good news. It looks like I've finally fixed the "Enter" bug when using the tab key. I'm also planning on adding another option on startup to allow the user to Activate the first button whether you are using the arrow keys option or not.

[PGPFan]

Hi Mario,

Sounds awesome! Any idea how soon before you release the fix. No pressure or anything, it's just the end of the world until you release it! ;)

-PGPfan

[mcascio]

I'll try to plan an putting together an update for early next week if not sooner.
This next update should fix most of the problems anyone was having along with some other goodies. :D

[mcascio]

OK,

What I thought I had fixed late last night still had some bugs in it. But after further research, it appears the ENTER key functions fine now.

I've also added more information to the lower left corner when in DESIGN or EDIT mode which displays the X and Y position of the button when you rollover it or if it is highlighted. This should make for easier editing and positioning rather than going into the Button Properties panel.

I'd like to add the option to move the buttons using the arrow keys while in design mode. This would make placement of the buttons really fast. Still trying to keep most of my efforts focused on DVDLobby Pro 2 right now. But I wanted to get some of these bugs fixed too.

I also found another bug in the way the Slinke was saving information. It was saving all the device settings to the MLS file when it should have been saving to the .ini file. This has now been fixed.

[mcascio]

Another Update!

Just completed the addition of a new feature to ML2 while in design mode that is probably one of the most powerful editing features I've added since version 1.0.

This feature speeds up the development time and position of buttons tremendously.

Now while in DESIGN mode, you can use your arrow keys to move the buttons around on the stage. A display in the corner shows the current position of both the mouse and the button you are moving. The arrow keys will move the button 1 pixel at a time or hold down the shift key to move the buttons 10 pixels at a time in any direction. No need to go into Button Properties any more to align buttons.

Want to change the button you are positioning? Just put your mouse over another button and it automatically sets focus to that button and you can move that button with the keyboard.

The screen shot below shows what it looks like when in design mode in your lower left corner.

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

The yellow numbers signify that buttons properties. To the left of the X and Y Pos you can see where your mouse pointer is on screen.

All this will be included in the next free update.

[dlksf]

Hi, I'm busily playing around on MainLobby 2 and enjoying it tremendously... I do have one question for Mario, though: when you delete a button in a scene, it still deletes the last button that was ADDED to the scene, right? If so, do you plan to change this so that the button to be deleted can be selected?

Thank you so much for a terrific program!

[mcascio]

Hi dlksf,

I know the way it deletes the buttons is not the best way, but for now it is certainly the quickest solution. When time is the only thing I don't have, picking my battles is often the challenge.

I do plan to add the option to delete any button, copy, paste, swap z-order, etc. For now, I recommend people use the HIDE option to just make the button invisible on the Stage area. Which is actually not bad since you can then uncheck the HIDE box and not lose any of the data for that button.

Just realized, as usual, that by adding the arrow key option, it disables the option to use the arrow keys during launch mode when the yellow box is visible around the button. Which is necessary for when the check box "Arrow keys" is checked.

How many of you will not need the arrow keys feature once the Tab/Shift-Tab is working with the Enter key solution?

[dlksf]

Thanks for the tip on hiding the buttons. That's extremely helpful and will totally fix the button deletion problem for now...

[vbich]

Mario,

I am not sure I understood your comment about the arrow keys, but I myself can live without arrow keys (using Tab/ShiftTab only) for a while.

But it would be good to have it working eventually, as I am going to use those arrow keys for DVD menus and it will be a usability discrepancy that I am sure my wife will not appreciate :)

On the other hand I do not mind the yellow box and if scaling works properly with the arrow keys on, then I am happy.

Thanks.

[mcascio]

Well,

I'm writing my own script to allow for the arrow keys without the yellow tab. I personally think Macromedia should have built this in to Flash, but since they didn't, I'll make my own. :) This will really make MainLobby polished.

[drbenson]

Mario, is there some technical reason that copy and paste don't work in the Edit button mode, specifically in the command line box? I'm creating a series of buttons so I can have Media Jukebox open and play a particular playlist just by hitting a button. This requires a fairly long command line, which only has to vary at the end for each playlist name.

Without cut and paste, I have to retype each time, which, besides being tedious, introduces the potential for typing errors and extended debugging time. Standard Windows Ctrl-C and Ctrl-V behavior would be really helpful. Is this a limitation of Flash? If so, it's a big one.

[mcascio]

Hey drbenson,

I've seen this work sometimes and not other times. I believe it has something to do with the timing and whether or not its actually recognizing the control key or not.

Here's a tip that I just tried and seemed to work reliably. Copy the text you want to paste from something like notepad. Then use Ctrl-v to paste into MainLobby. That works on my end. If only a few things are changing you should be able to go through all the buttons and only have to copy the text once but paste many times.

Another option is you could just edit the MLS (text) file.


Let me know if either of these options work for you.

[drbenson]

I actually tried copying the command line from the RUN command line, where I was testing it, and though it copied fine into Notepad, nothing showed up when I tried to paste into the command line in ML.

Hadn't even considered editing the MLS file, didn't know it was an option. I can give it a go tonight.

[KRavEN]

Mario,

I've been working with the button fla fie you posted and I can get it looking right and working somewhat now. Couple of issues though, probably my fault.

1. Button placement does not stay. If I save and then exit after getting everything placed correctly it doesn't stay where I put it when I reopen mainlobby.

2. When I use the dynamic text box I get text, but there is a hidden box that stays where the button was first put. The text follows the button when going into design mode and after. The problem with the hidden box is it gets a yellow box when tabbing as well as the button itself.

3. When I create a button using my swf and then edit the button, another button is created when I hit okay, but the button counter still shows only 1 and clear or remove will not get rid of the extra button. I can edit the button and hide it, then it goes away.

I would be happy to send my fla if you would like.

I am also having problems with a backgroundfx swf file I am using. It works fine and does the animation when mainlobby first opens, but if I have a button open another mls file that also contains the same backgroundfx, it does not do the animation. The animation is a one tween and stop.

[Funboy]

Has anyone been able to get MainLobby working with Girder and the WinAMP 3 Plug-In (for Girder)?

If you have I'd be interested in knowing how you went about setting it up, in particular how your fetching the playlist and displaying it.

Thanks

[RareB]

I have been messing around with the trial ver 1.71 and think this program seems kind of cool. I wish there would be a trial ver of 2 so I could check it out. The price of $60 does seem kind of high for this type of software.

Rare

[kcarlasc]

I can get a pretty good deal on the Viewsonic Viewpad 100, this is the CE 3.0 version. I am wondering if I could use this to control MainLobby via Terminal Services. This device is a big PDA. I am wondering what kind of draw backs I might have with this set up.

Thanks

[KRavEN]

Whew, I thought I was just really dumb with flash, but I did some more experimenting and it's not me. I used the SampleButton.swf file in the zip that I downloaded from the mainlobby site and it exhibits the same exact behavior as the button I exported.

On top of the problems in my previous post, I'm also seeing where the button gets the correct text and displays it, then after I save, exit, and restart mainlobby, the text on the buttons is gone and I can no longer edit the buttons. I can only delete and make a new one.

I thought the yellow box was not supposed to be there when you used tab and shft-tab to go between buttons?


Originally posted by KRavEN
Mario,

I've been working with the button fla fie you posted and I can get it looking right and working somewhat now. Couple of issues though, probably my fault.

1. Button placement does not stay. If I save and then exit after getting everything placed correctly it doesn't stay where I put it when I reopen mainlobby.

2. When I use the dynamic text box I get text, but there is a hidden box that stays where the button was first put. The text follows the button when going into design mode and after. The problem with the hidden box is it gets a yellow box when tabbing as well as the button itself.

3. When I create a button using my swf and then edit the button, another button is created when I hit okay, but the button counter still shows only 1 and clear or remove will not get rid of the extra button. I can edit the button and hide it, then it goes away.

I would be happy to send my fla if you would like.

I am also having problems with a backgroundfx swf file I am using. It works fine and does the animation when mainlobby first opens, but if I have a button open another mls file that also contains the same backgroundfx, it does not do the animation. The animation is a one tween and stop.

[mcascio]

Originally posted by drbenson
I actually tried copying the command line from the RUN command line, where I was testing it, and though it copied fine into Notepad, nothing showed up when I tried to paste into the command line in ML.

Hadn't even considered editing the MLS file, didn't know it was an option. I can give it a go tonight.

drbenson,
I tried copying from the RUN comand line using CTRL-C and then went into MainLobby and was able to paste using CTRL-V without any problems. Not sure what gives.

KRavEN,

I didn't have a chance to do any extensive testing with the FLA I posted. It could very well be something on my end that I setup wrong. Let me tinker with it and see I get similar results.

I am also having problems with a backgroundfx swf file I am using. It works fine and does the animation when mainlobby first opens, but if I have a button open another mls file that also contains the same backgroundfx, it does not do the animation. The animation is a one tween and stop.

This is actually something that is setup intentionally. Imagine if you have a moving background that you want to keep moving without any jump in the animation. Not everyone will want to have the animation restart when changing scenes. I guess, at least I didn't plan for it. There are a few options for working around this. The way it works is that MainLobby looks to see if the backgroundFX file location changes from one scene to the next, if the name stays the same, it doesn't reload it. If the name changes, it loads the movie. So for the options I mentioned, you could duplicate the backgroundFX and just rename it with a slightly different name. Then switch back and forth between the two as you change scenes.
Another option which may be over your head depending on your flash skills is to check to see if a new Scene has been loaded. You could setup a looping Movie Clip that detects the current name of the file every so many frames. The variable for this is "_root.FileName" which might be MainLobbydata.mls. This actionscript would go into your background. It would be a three frame loop. The first frame sets _root.FileName = _root.FileNameOriginalFile and would also load or play your backgroundFX by using the loadMovie script or just putting the movie in Frame 1, then in frame 2, put something like:
if _root.FileName != _root.FileNameOriginalFile (NOTE: != means does not equal)
gotoandplay(1);
In frame 3 you would put a loop statement back to frame 2 (NOT FRAME 1).
Which then reloads that BackgroundFX you wanted each time.

Hopefully this makes some sense.

Rare,
Unfortunately this line of business is a very niche market.

Keith,
You should have gotten a private mail about using the Viewsonic.


Well, creating something what seems as simple as the use of the arrow keys is a lot tougher than one would think. I had to break out some old Calculus stuff that I haven't used since college. The nice thing will be that when it's done, no more yellow boxes. YIPPEEEE.

[mcascio]

KRavEN,

I've uploaded a new file. I noticed some problems with the one I uploaded before. It seems using buttons is causing problems within MainLobby. If you create a simple SWF that is just a MovieClip instead of a Button, it will work fine though.

The new file is available from:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/mainlobbytips.html
You may need to clear your cache if you were recently there.

This is a much more robust way to import Flash graphics and tie directly into MainLobby 2's new Custom Library. Although it may be a little more daunting at first and not as simplistic as my last example.

Take a look at it and let me know if you have questions.

[KRavEN]

Mario,

Great, thanks so much for your great support.

I'll see if I can figure it out and once I do I'll write a brief how-to on making your own mainlobby buttons.

[mcascio]

KRavEN,

That sounds great.

A couple key things to getting it to import into MainLobby2:
1) Setting up a unique name when you right click the Movie Clip and setup linkage for the clip in Flash.
2) That name needs to match the name of the array setup in frame 1 of LibraryCustom01.fla.

[KRavEN]

Okay, I have the basic button part figured out and have it working I think.

How do I get it so that the initial button state is invisible and you only see the button when you mouse-over/select and then it changes colors a little when you click the button?

The way I have it working now is you see it, changes color when I mouseover, and changes color again when I click.

[mcascio]

KRavEN,

Just edit the Button and change the Alpha values on the Over and Down states to your liking or even adjust the Hue.

[KRavEN]

I don't think I got my problem accross correctly.

I've attached a zip with 2 swf's in it. The tivo_button.swf is how I want it to behave and the other is how it is currently behaving.

[KRavEN]

I think I figured it out. I need to make another mask attached to another button that just has the up portion specified.

Think I have it now. =]

[mcascio]

KRavEN,

Let me know if you've got it working.

It's a beautiful thing when it is working. :D

[KRavEN]

Well, I think I have the most of it. I have to figure out how to get the text in the right place on the button now. Also need to figure out why it won't let me move the button in design mode. I'll work more on it tonight.

I did notice that the text is still getting it's own yellow box when tabbing so you have to press tab twice to get through each button. This happens with your button exported from the fla as well as mine.

[KRavEN]

Okay, I have it somewhat working.

I did some more playing with your samplebutton exported from the fla and it works perfectly. The yellow box with tab goes away after a save and restart of main lobby. I was wrong before, there aren't 2 yellow boxes, something I did wrong.

I have my button looking like I want and the dynamic text is working and shows up where I want it. It shows up under Custom01 as TivoButton. I have 3 pending problems that I haven't been able to work through yet.

1. Can't edit once I change to my custom button.
2. Can't design once I change to my custom button.
3. Yellow box is still present on my custom button after save and restart

I've attached my fla in case you have time to see if I'm doing something dumb.

I'll keep banging at it.

[mcascio]

KRavEN,

You were missing a couple things:
1) Select your Button and give it an Instance Name of "clickarea"
2) Put this script on the Button as well: #include "actiondata.as"

I've attached the revised Zip. Let me know if it solves your problems. A nice Tutorial would be great to get others on their way. :)

[KRavEN]

Okay, now I understand. It works now of course. =]

I will work on gettting some screenshots and a little howto web page together.

Thanks again for all the help.


BTW, What is that empty MC movie clip for?

[visualbyte]

Mario

Stupid troll question. i am currently running homeseering for the lighting how can mainlobby be put in control. mainly for on off and 50% dim i have a cm11u thingy. also cm11u active x which i have not figured out,
(And i dont want to use girder if i can help it but will sit down and learn if i have to.)

P.S. The PCBlastir is going back in the post maybe i will give the redrat a go. Concept devices were kind enough to send me a pcremote as well but the pair of them were so flacky .......gruramarhhg. poo.
about 10 key presses to switch an amp on. buy the time i switched it on my wife got up opened the cupboard and switched it on her self. guess i have already got my remote. her in doors. !
there is a reason why cheap things are cheap.

[ccclapp]

Mario, or others:

I have a couple of Extron AV matrix switchers I will need to control as part of my whole-house AV setup. They are controlled via RS-232. Can I control them through ML buttons? If so, how? (I have not yet learned how to control RS-232 devices via my PC, or otherwise...I am now getting ready to learn).

If ML is not the way to go, what is? Is there an IR conversion interface to use (e.g. Girder) to control RS-232 via a pronto?

Thanks

--Caleb

[papester]

I've been reading the post here and have visited the MainLobby web site and have a few question before I take the plunge.

My current Home Automation setup consist of a server running Windows 2000 Server edition, HomeSeer 1.6 for X10 control and a Slink-E for IR and Sony control. I also have two Progear's running Windows 98.

I would like to run MainLobby on the Progears to control my HT equipment via the server with the Slink-E attached. But I have the following questions.

1. Can this be done?
2. If I install MainLobby on the Progear, would it talk to the Slink-E on the server via DCOM?
3. Would I need MainLobby on both PC's?
4. Is anybody doing this now?

I have been looking for an interface like MainLobby for my Progears and hope that what I have in mind will work.

Thanks in advance for your time.

Judd

[mcascio]

Originally posted by KRavEN
Okay, now I understand. It works now of course. =]

I will work on gettting some screenshots and a little howto web page together.

Thanks again for all the help.


BTW, What is that empty MC movie clip for?

KRavEN,

Glad you are up and running.
AFAIK, the empty MC is probably just from another clip I may have dragged into the FLA, but I'm pretty sure it's not functioning in the example or serving any purpose.

visualbyte,
There are several options for controlling X10. There is a program called x10com32.exe where you can pass variables to from MainLobby's application line. Just do a search for x10com32.exe under Google or Yahoo.
You can also use the Slinke if you have one.
Yet another option is to use Larry's SeerCmd available from his website.
http://www.gadgetland.net/
Like x10com32.exe, you would call his program directly from MainLobby. I've been meaning to integrate this as a command line from MainLobby 2, but time has not allowed for it yet. I believe you'll also be able to tap into WinAmp using his program.

Caleb,
Girder has a generic serial plugin that should allow you to control your device via RS232. While I personally haven't done this myself, a recent user notified me that he had done this successfully.

Judd,
Yes you can run MainLobby on your ProGear and control your HT equipment via DCOM. MainLobby would just need to be running on your ProGear's. I'm currently doing this and have 3 ProGears. I gave a demo not too long ago to a Crestron dealer showing off MainLobby on a wireless ProGear while walking around the house and controlling my cable box. Needless to say he was pretty impressed...then when I mentioned how inexpensive it was to do all this, he was blown away!

[visualbyte]

Cheers . seercmd sorted it out after a day of tinkering around, i still dont understand how to get girder to do its commands i stick to action scripting.

anyway after a bit of playing with flashnpack i was wondering if a scene could be added. if an effect to boycot the windows interface even if its running in the back ground would it be possible to use the web page feature so it can be set up to go to web in my case my mail web server ip address,

we know you dont really like sleep, its only for the weak, coffee ,mountain dew and miller lite keeps us feeling bright.

[dreicher]

Been burning some daylight working on TVLobby from the XMLTV information. At this point, I am able to download the correct listings via XMLTV to an XML file in my MainLobby directory. You can download up to 14 days at a time; however, that much information is a little difficult for Flash to handle.

Then, I take that information (as it is - no intervention) and bring it into a MainLobby scene I setup. This is the most time consuming part (I'll be working on any ways I can to speed it up as much as possible). The nice thing is once the information is in - you don't have to go through it again until you exit MainLobby. Jumping scenes doesn't cause a reload of the information.

Now that the information is in ML (and that was the easy part) - it builds the guide for a 3 hour period of time...see attached. Children's programs are formatted on green boxes, sports on orange, and news on red. All the rest are on black. Clicking a program gives you more detailed information about that program. I'll be adding start/stop times, category, etc. as I come up with a final "look".

Some other touches are putting arrows at the ends of programs if they are a continuation of or continued on the next screen.

There are crosshairs for moving up/down the channel lineup or left/right 3 hours at a time. That was the hard part.

Couple of current issues: XMLTV does not go into the next day (ie, if a program starts at 11:35PM and goes to 12:05AM - they end it at 12:00AM) so you end up with some gaps at the start of the day. Hopefully they address this.

Now, I need to work on the look/interface and start thinking about what you can do with this. :)

Dan

[KRavEN]

Dan,

Great work, looks like exaclty what is needed.

How are you going to release this? Would you welcome some help?

[jwaters]

Dan.... Outstanding!! That is exactly the kind of creative additions I knew was possible through MainLobby, so I love to see people helping Mario build and expand this platform!

I have MANY ideas myself..... if only my programming skills and time allowed me to pursue them! Great work, anyway....

[z.mash]

Fantastic! Can't wait until the release!

[dreicher]

An epiphany!

I've been struggling with the speed of the of the initial loading of the listings. I had built this really nice preloader to entertain while TVLobby loaded the XML file and dumped it into MainLobby. So I tried 2 days worth of listings on my Flash Dev computer (P3/700). It took 1 min 40 sec. Not to bad, but not so good. Fortunately the loader was VERY entertaining. :) Now try 14 days of information and we're up over 10 minutes. Thankfully, it only happens once each time you reload MainLobby.

So, I threw it on a Progear (P3/anemic) and it took...well 1 min 40 sec. So, I threw it on my HTPC (P4/2.2) and it took...you guessed it: 1 min 40 sec! Something is not right, I thunk to myself. Then the math started kicking in! 2 days worth of listings was about 1500 program listings and I had split the preload into a 2 frame loop to keep Flash from popping it's "I think I'm stuck on this frame and I can't get out". So, here's the math:

2 frames * 1500 listings = 3000 frames.
3000 frames / 30 frames per second = 100 seconds.
100 seconds = well, I bet you saw this one coming from a mile away.

So I restructured the loader to move some stuff around and BAM!

On my Dev computer, the same process takes 17.2 seconds from start of scene to information on screen. Moving from 3 hour slot to 3 hour slot takes about 3 seconds.

Now, those are numbers I can live with. Here's the other stuff:

Got the arrows working for programs that spill over into the next set (see image).
Jacked the ReplayTV interface to pretty things up a bit for now.

To answer the question about release. Timeframe is: I don't know. The how is through Mario. I am going to continue to work on this, but I will be handing it over to Mario to:

Make it pretty.
Make it better.
Support it.

Not to mention the help he has given me in his time, in the access to MainLobby's code that makes this even possible, and in the extra code he's had to put into MainLobby to make this work as well. I think that this will be a fantastic addition to any MainLobby setup, and I hope you all enjoy the finished product.

I might be able to work in a feature request or two, if there are any...

Dan

[mzemina]

Dan,
Sooooo cool! Your enhancement to MainLobby just adds to Mario's program and helps make this program set just the thing to have! I can't wait!

Mike

[vbich]

Dan,

This thing looks fantastic!

I am sure you (or Mario) will get a lot of feature requests once people here get their hands on your TV Lobby :)

Maybe I start now ... Can I modify the scene that shows the details of the program I clicked on? Can I add two buttons "switch" and "record" and use time/date, channel number and texts to create a command line to execute?
And from there it can send commands to some background scheduler.

That's in my opinion is 80% of what I'd need from any TIVO-like program - to look at the schedule and be able to switch to/schedule a recording of any channel from there...

To be able to interface back from the recording schedule to the TV Lobby and be able to display programs marked for recording somehow differently is nice but not critical.

I hope I did not sound too greedy :)

I personally prefer "open" programs that allow me to integrate various tools by myself easily to the "do it all" programs, and your program seems to be a great tool for such integration.

I can hardly wait to see what it can do!

Thanks!

[mcascio]

Sorry folks. It has been a hectic week with the holidays and continuous meetings.

Dan - TVLobby is looking awesome. I'll get back to your PM now that I've had a chance to get caught up on things.

BTW, I finally overcame another huge obstacle that's been bugging me for a long time on DVDLobby Pro 2. I'm going to do my best to get it to a point that is acceptable for beta testers as soon as possible.

In addition, I'm still working on full remote/keyboard control without the yellow outline around the buttons.

One major new feature I've added into MainLobby is the option to "delete" any button. You no longer have to just remove the last button in the order you added them. Very cool!

With this in place, copy and paste features will also be much easier to implement.

I was hoping to have the free upgrade ready to go, but it's taken much longer than expected. I'll see if I can have it ready for everyone so they can play with the new features before Xmas.

[mzemina]

Mario & Dan,

I think you guys need to take a well deserved Christmas break and then jump into after next week. All those who agree join me in three cheers...

Hip Hip - whoyah!

Mike

[vbich]

I agree with Mike - seriously, people, let's have a holiday! There is no harm in releasing all Lobbies after Christmas (or even after New Year)! I do not think that a weeks delay matters much.

I know that I am not going to have any time to relax and enjoy the holidays if anything is released this week ;)

[dreicher]

Mike & Vadim,

Thank you. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday. With the impending release of TVLobby and what I know of what's coming with DVDLobby 2 - I think Mario will finally own the crown of the best HTPC interface on the planet!

Once again, happy holidays to all - please take the time to enjoy your family and annoy your in-laws to the fullest extent possible and keep your eye out for some great MainLobby additions in the new year.

Attached is a little something I cooked up for you all - from my family to yours.

Cheers!

Dan

[dreicher]

Vadim,

Could you (or others) please post a "sample" command line for program recording, switching channels, and/or scheduling to watch - along with what program you're using for this. Thanks.

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Just purchased MainLobby2.
I used one of the standard .mls pages and added one button.
Saved the page to DavidHome.mls
Went into Options to select this new page as the startup default, hit OK and Save.
Exit MainLobby to check it out.
When launching MainLobby.exe, I see "Loading Main Lobby" then, I get a message like "a script is running slow on a Flash Player 6 movie, do you want to stop it?" (not even close to the exact message but in the spirit).
When saying Yes, cancel - the Menu bar drops down and up and down and up etc. Can't stop it. Hitting Esc kills the app. Rebooting the Win2000AS server didn't clean it up.

Any clues?
I assume I will unzip the download and start again? I didn't see any "Install":(

[mcascio]

Dan,

Thanks for the Holiday Flash greeting!
Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday.

Hey David (aka smoothtlk),

I would try reunzipping the files. I'll be working on an install routine after the New Year.

I think there was a bug in some of the Scene files where MainLobby is searching for the Slinke activeX. It would normally hang if this were the case, but I'm not sure I've ever heard of the error you mentioned.

If after unzipping, you are still having problems, go ahead and send me your mls file? I'll take a look and see if that's the problem.

BTW all, I've added another neat feature to MainLobby which allows the user to setup a timer to restart the Startup Scene. This was a users request that was fairly easy to do and made a lot of sense.
This is nice if you have multiple Scenes that take you away from your 'home' Scene, after say 2 hours, you could have it automatically reload your Startup Scene so when the next user or you comes back to the computer, it will automatically be ready for you to interact with your initial menu.

[dreicher]

Mario,

Good call on the new feature! Happy holidays, and I hope you get some snow in your neck of the woods. It really sucks living in the tundra and not even being able to have a white Christmas. :) Somebody please remind me why I live up here...

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
I saved my DavidHome.msl to a diff directory. Then unzipped install download again. App launched to default OK. Copied the DavidHome back to the MainLobby.exe directory and opened it. No prob. Just in case, I started again with a different sample .msl and everything working cool. The graphic that was open during the prob was the menu bar and the Cinamar blurb on the right (it was raising and lowering with the menu bar). Hope that helps debug.

Slinke - When I first clicked Active X, and added my first and additional IR devices, only the first device functions showed available in the test fields. Saving, closing, reopening, edit, and I could then use the second - 7th IR devices. Some bug here somewhere...

Speaking of Slinke - what is the device number for? Should my Tivo be 1, my Lexicon be 2, my VCR 3 and so forth? Docs would indicate all are 1. Is the Slinke number if you have two Slinke's? Do you support Slinkes older than 3.0?

I am using Win2000AS with Terminal services running Homeseer and MainLobby connected to a Slinke, Napco, X10, etc. What is the best process to connect via 802.11b win98 / XPTablet / Ipaq devices? I am now trying to get DCOM running on win98 fujitsu LT tablet to check it out.
By the way, the Nirvis website doesn't have a link to the DCOM config file. Only to the DCOM nuts and bolts. The config util was on Bill's DCOM support site.

thanx.
Merry Xmas!

David:)

[smoothtlk]

Ok,
Got DCOM working for the first Slinke device (Tivo1). With known good cde files (I can operate them with the same server, same slinke, same cde files via Homeseer), the rest don't work. Anyone have an idea on why? I configured the device (1), unit (1), and port (16) the same for all. Then I tired changing the device name different for each. No help.

Thanx for the guidance!
David

[mcascio]

Hi David,
Good to see you are almost all the way up and running.

It sounds like you still haven't configured the proper Slinke port for the devices that aren't currently functioning. The Slinke port settings are as follows:

Slinke Port Settings Table
1 - Control A1 Port 0
2 - Control A1 Port 1
4 - Control A1 Port 2
8 - Control A1 Port 3
16 - IR Port 0
32 - IR Port 1
64 - IR Port 2
128 - IR Port 3
256 - IR Port 4
512 - IR Port 5
1024 - IR Port 6
2048 - IR Port 7
4080 - All IR Ports, No Control A1-II Ports

Are you using an older version of the Slinke? I haven't done extensive testing with older versions so it's possible that could be part of your problem, but I do believe they had the ActiveX control with the version prior to 3.0.

I'd recommend changing 16 to 4080 which would address any IR port you may have the device hooked up to.

Let me know if this works.

[mzemina]

Dan - You and Mario could move down to Tulsa. We have a nice blanket of snow. But it is rare, I only remember (but age maybe playing tricks) three white Christmas since we have been here for 18 years. Then again didn't have that many white Christmas' when I lived in eastern South Dakota. We did have a few blizzards and whoppers of snow storms, those am glad we don't have down here. Also remember one of those storms which gave us over 20 foot snow drifts! Those were the days!

Mike

Originally posted by dreicher

It really sucks living in the tundra and not even being able to have a white Christmas. :) Somebody please remind me why I live up here...

Dan

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
As per your suggestion, I changed all my devices to port 4080. Each device number is sequential. Slink number is always 1. Testing is on Win98 233mhz fujitsu LT tablet running MainLobby DCOM talking to a Win2000AS server which is serial connected to Slinke pre 3.0 device (2.5?).

Seems like the top device slot in slinke Options is most reliable. I have changed the top slot cde file to other devices and sometimes they work. The key word being sometimes. So, the server is fine, the hardware is fine, the cde is fine for the device, the slinke control software is fine.

When I switch the cde file and go to edit a button, sometimes the correct IR commands for that cde are available, sometimes they are still the old cde commands, sometimes they are a partial list. Always it is slow to pull up the list of available commands.

Most of the time when the device doesn't respond, I can see that Slinke server is not getting the message as it doesn't show having received any. When the top slot has my Tivo cde, the response is pretty reliable.

I can see where this could go, if I could get it to work reliably. Neat Stuff! I was going to script a bunch of IR type commands in Homeseer but was hoping that MainLobby was going to save me some work.

By the way, is there a newsgroup with other folks .mls, shockwave, etc.? The script library is what makes Homeseer so cool. If I get something working, I am more than happy to share.


Thanx.

[jcase]

Mario wrote:
BTW all, I've added another neat feature to MainLobby which allows the user to setup a timer to restart the Startup Scene. This was a users request that was fairly easy to do and made a lot of sense.

Mario - Would it be hard to make this an inactivity timer to return to the Startup Scene? instead of an overall timer. Kinda like the way a screen saver works. As I'm typing and thinking this maybe harder then I envisioned because if the ML screensaver kicks in then the timer may never start to return to the startup scene.


Awesome keep up the great work, and do take a break :)

[mdownard]

Mario,

It's unlikely, but mama told me that "you never know unless you ask", so -

Have you had time to perform testing with DVDLobby/Slink-e combo and the Sony DVP-CX875P yet? As I recall it was something on your "to-do" list but you hadn't yet received the changer.

Was kinda holding off on buying a few of 'em until your test results were in. No pressure, just curious.

BTW Slink-e arrived, thanks much!


Mike

[Jay Wilson]

Originally posted by mdownard
Mario,

It's unlikely, but mama told me that "you never know unless you ask", so -

Have you had time to perform testing with DVDLobby/Slink-e combo and the Sony DVP-CX875P yet? As I recall it was something on your "to-do" list but you hadn't yet received the changer.

Was kinda holding off on buying a few of 'em until your test results were in. No pressure, just curious.

BTW Slink-e arrived, thanks much!


Mike

Nope. Unless he bought another one :D I am still waiting on Mario's to get her. I had mine on order from May until September. I made Mario a special deal becuse of all the hard work he put in for me, but unfirtunately Sony is very backordered on them. I ask weekly about it though :)

To answer your other question...the slinke works great with the changer and Main Lobby. I can assign any of the functions I like to the ML interface and operate teh changer effortlessly. I have not done all my programming as I am waiting on DVDLobby. But I can tell you that what I have played with so far is perfect!

Jay

[vbich]

Originally posted by dreicher
Vadim,

Could you (or others) please post a "sample" command line for program recording, switching channels, and/or scheduling to watch - along with what program you're using for this. Thanks.

Dan

Dan,
I am thinking of hiding all the complexity from TVLobby, so a call to something like "switch.bat <channel id> <programme title> <programme start>" or "record.bat <channel id> <programme title> <programme start> <programme stop>" would do.

BTW, which attribute has a numeric value of a channel? The one that I have to press on a remote? I cannot find it in the DTD - -that would be needed too.

Such a bat file will create a record in NT scheduler service (or whatever scheduler) and it would send events to Girder at appropriate time, causing it to send IR commands to switch to the channel specified and then start/activate TV application (in view or record mode)

Of course, since it is a bat file, other implementations will be possible too, the one above is just my own plan to work with WinTV command-line utility and UIRT for sending IR commands.

Thanks.
--
Vadim

[mcascio]

Dan,
Don't feel bad - no snow here in Wisconsin either. :D

smoothtlk,
One thing I would do first is eliminate DCOM and the tablet altogether. Try to do all your intial design and testing on the server. I imagine your server is much faster than your tablet. I've noticed the ProGear (400mhz) is slow at building the display when editing a button. It's much faster to build on the server and then just transfer the .mls file. Make sure you use relative references or absolute references to your server whenimages or backgrounds.
By eliminating your tablet, you also be making sure DCOM is not the problem or communication between the two.

Change all the device#s to "1" as well instead of sequential order.

Chances are the reason only the first device is working is because it is actually set properly. Once you've got that working, then add the tablet.
This should make it much easier to troubleshoot.

You could also try communicating with your devices by using CDJ (comes with the Slinke). If you can do it from there, then you can move on to MainLobby. Baby steps. :D

There is a thread for swapping MainLobyb Scenes that you may want to check out:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=182917&perpage=20&highlight=mainlobby%20screenshots&pagenumber=1

Mario - Would it be hard to make this an inactivity timer to return to the Startup Scene? instead of an overall timer. Kinda like the way a screen saver works. As I'm typing and thinking this maybe harder then I envisioned because if the ML screensaver kicks in then the timer may never start to return to the startup scene.

John,
That's exactly how the timer works. If someone moves their mouse or uses the keyboard, the timer resets. The timer will still be ticking away when the screensaver kicks in.

Mike,
Like Jay mentioned, I'm still eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Sony Changer. Jay's initial testing sounds pretty promising though.
The challenge that Jay may not have performed yet is being able to trigger a specific DVD to play from one button. Jay - have you attempted this yet?

[Jay Wilson]

I have not, becasue I am waiting on the next release of DVD Lobby. That's not a hint...really it's not :o I rebuilt my HTPC a few weeks back, and when I saw all the things you were going to implement, I decided to wait for the next release. Right now, by DVDs are hap hazardly in the changer, with no kind of order. All I did at this point was put about 10 in every 20 spaces or so to kind of balance out the platter.

[dreicher]

Vadim,

There will be a function in place to extrapolate whatever information you need (ie, just channel number, date, time - properly formatted, etc.). From there, I should be able to allow you to plug those variables into some sort of command line.

I'm going to finish up a search function, put the watch/record buttons in, make a clip to view an entire day for a single channel - then let Mario work his magic! All in all...I should be able to wrap it up pretty quickly.

Dan

[mcascio]

Dan,

I spoke to soon. There's a light snow falling that has already covered the ground. Looks like it may be a white Xmas here in Wisconsin after all if it sticks until tomorrow. Hopefully it heads your way just in time for Xmas.

[Jay Wilson]

Originally posted by mcascio
Dan,

I spoke to soon. There's a light snow falling that has already covered the ground. Looks like it may be a white Xmas here in Wisconsin after all if it sticks until tomorrow. Hopefully it heads your way just in time for Xmas.

Heh, heh, heh...being on the Gulf of Mexico, I don't think it's going to come my way no matter what :D

It is supposed to be in the 30's in the AM tomorrow, but supposed to warm to 60's. We'd just have a bigger muddy mess if it snowed here. It'd be a brown Christmas from all the damn mud!

Merry Christmas to my Lobby Suite compadres anyway, whether a white Christmas or not!

[vbich]

I think it is off-topic, but I hope I will be forgiven - It just started snowing here in NJ. After weeks of perfectly spring warm weather, it looks like it may be white Christmas after all.

Happy holidays!

[vbich]

Dan,

Thanks a lot, this is just what I was hoping for!

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
Still figuring out Slinke.
As FYI - I have been using Slinke just fine with Homeseer and CDJ. Never a problem - so I think my environment and configuration are fine.
What I have found with MainLobby - I had to again unzip the download, create a new mls from a sample, recreate Slinke config. Now, it works for multiple devices. Go figure. I chose port 16. No prob with this now either.
I called all Devices (1). (What is this identifier for?)

Newest finding: Tivo cde file has ch- as description of down channel. I added this function to a button and tested - no prob. I then OK and SAVE and tested - still no prob. I then EXIT and reload - the button refuses to work. I edit button and find that the (-) is missing. If I type it back - it works fine again. Save again.... Tried this scenario multiple times. Then, I edited the cde file changing ch- to chdown. Now no prob at all. ch+ works fine. Is there something weird with the (-)???? Something is deleting it on exit or launch.

I hope I licked the last of Slinke issues because I want to start design! (hopefully the fun part!)
Merry Xmas!

[mcascio]

Hey smoothtlk,
Hope Santa was good to you. :D

I think the problem might be a bug that I found when saving Scenes. It was actually saving the SLinke settings. So it's possible that my Slinke devices were setup for you system at certain points. Not sure though.

I'll have to review the Slinke help system to see why Devices is always set to 1. I do know, when it is, it works. :)

I would recommend not using weird characters in your Slinke settings or swapping them out for words like, "up" and "down". There is a known bug where MainLobby can't interpret them properly.

Aside, from these things, is everything running properly?

[rbtconsultants]

Dan (Dreicher) - Hi. I have been kurking reading about TVLobby. I would be enormously interested in this!

As far as recording and channel changing goes, I have been looking at numerous programs that accomplish this via TitanTV. They all pretty much work the same way:

When you click on an ICON at TitanTV, a file with extension .TVPI (for scheduling recordings) or a .TVVI (for channel changing) is downloaded. This is an XML file with some Channel and program info.

When any of this software that uses TitanTV in this manner is installed, they change the actions in Windows that are performed when these files are downloaded/opened. In the case of AccessDTV for instance, a javascript or VBS script is assigned to run and act on the XML file. In the case of ShowShifter, an executable is invoked.

I was able to view the downloaded XML by just assigning the .TVPI extension OPEN action to Notepad. I did it by looking at folder options in Windows explorer and choosing "File Types", then assigning an OPEN action to this file extension.

So, the simplest thing to do would be for your record button/channel change buttons to create a similar format .TVPI/.TVVI file and let the programs do their thing exactly as they would with TitanTV.

It sounds like it would be simpler and less error-prone then the NT scheduler/Girder thing discussed by Vadim.

One thing here that would be Nirvana: I have an AccessDTV card and a regular tuner card in my machine. I obviously can't have both the AccessDTV scripts and a program like Showshfter both assigned to the .TVPI/.TVVI file extensions. So, only one can work at any given time. So far, I have been manually switching the actions on the file open to schedule for one or the other during my testing.

I have thought about writing a script that would parse the XML and determine whether it was a digital channel or analog channel and invoke the proper action. This would require some programming on my part so I haven't gotten to it yet, and I would have to brush up on my skills.

So, to me, the ideal for TVLobby would be for me to be allowed to assign an action to be invoked for any given channel so I could have it invoke an executable. In my case, I would invoke WSCRIPT.EXE to run the scripts for AccessDTV for the digital channels, and invoke SHowshifter executable for the regular Cable stuff.

Incidentally, will TVLobby be able to provide programming info for Digital channels like TitanTV does?

Thanks for all of your hard work. Please let me know if I can provide more info.

Thanks,

Bob

[dreicher]

Bob,

I'll take a look at the TitanTV stuff to see what we can do. I've only used ShowShifter at this point (at that only sparingly) - so I know of what you speak, at least. But that's about it.

My initial thought for this was just to have a quick and dirty EPG so I could see when the next Scooby Doo is on. Having that done, I've spent the better part of the morning getting a "search" utility built - which is now done.

...and now - watch/record. To be frank - I've been putting if off as long as I can. More, because I don't use my HTPC to watch or record - so this part is of little use to me. I hope to be able to accomodate everyone's wishes, so I'm going to have to do a little research. If you could PM me a copy of the XML file so I can get the schema for the TitanTV files - that would be great. As far as listings go, I'm using XMLTV to grab the listings. For my area, XMLTV uses Zap2it to get the listings. I know my cable provider's digital listings are available but I don't have digital cable.

My thought here would be for you to look at running two scenes for TVLobby (one for standard cable/regular tuner card and one for digital cable/AccessDTV card). That way the program could be set to react accordingly based on the scene. I could certainly (if it were necessary) create user-definable file extensions that you could manually register and assign them accordingly. For instance .TVR1 / .TVW1 for the regular tuner (record/watch) and .TVR2 / .TVW2 for the AccessDTV card. That way, when the program "launches" the XML file the association dictates which card does what. Now we're talking! :)

Any information you could get me on what needs to happen for each card to "do it's thing" - it would save me a great deal of research time. I'm also wanting to accomodate being able to build an executable based on time/date/channel etc. to accomodate other programs (I think my ATI AIW7500 will work via this route).

I hope this all makes sense, because I'm still a little foggy on where to head with this. Hopefully, it will all come together to everyone's liking as I dive in and start to work out the details. ANY information on the workings of "automating" these programs externally would be GREATLY appreciated.

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday.

Cheers!

Dan

[Boxster_T]

Mario,

Been playing with ML for a few weeks now (very slick, BTW). I've seemed to run into what I'd call a bug in the way I'd expect the BackScene Command Line to work.

Most of my scenes are stored in the ML directory. However I'm using Johnathan's mp3 scripts to auto-magically generate mls scenes for artist/album data. These are stored in directories on a second dedicated drive for music. I've modified Johnathan's scripts to call a "visualization" scene stored in the main ML directory once an album is selected to play. (as an aside, this scene turned out very cool by using Girder event data from MJ to display album info and MJ's visualization engine to display syncopated visual graphics).

From the visualization scene I thought I could return to the scene that "called" it via the BACK SCENE command line. Doesn't work, just stays on the current scene. Remember that the visualization scene is not located in the same directory as the calling scene (any one of numerous "albumx.mls" scenes that are located in various album directories could call the visualation scene located in the ML directory). My guess is that ML does not maintain directory info as it hops across directories. But what do I know! ;)

Hope this makes sense. Being a newbie I may simply be doing it wrong but I've tried all I can think of. Any help would be appreciated.

Tom

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
First off, thanx for the multiple replies. Hopefully the thread helps someone else.

Project Status - I now have a Main Page with buttons to launch component screens and have written a component screen for each Slinke controllable device. They all seem to work!

Can't get X10 to work yet, but haven't played much with it. First thing I notice is that I can't type in the "]" at the end of the "x10:on[a6]" statement. That is the only key that won't type. I gotta figure this is why I can't get x10 to work.
Update: exited MainLobby and restarted - now I can edit the ]. Unfortunately still x10 problem. Next guess is - I assume you used the "AddDeviceText" method. If my CM11a is attached to com port 2 - how does it find it? Are you default programmed to com port 1?

Next step is to compose some macros (theatre ON, Play DVD, etc.)

possible bug - occasionally I notice a button looses it's text. Button properties show settings are OK. Switching to a different font fixes it (I can then switch back to the original).

Found out what the Slinke Device number is for:

"IDNumber

A 1-based index to which device number you want to use if the device file defines more than one possible device ID (e.g. Sony CD changers and VCRs can be numbered 1,2, or 3)"



Thanx

[ccclapp]

Originally posted by mdownard
Mario,
Have you had time to perform testing with DVDLobby/Slink-e combo and the Sony DVP-CX875P yet?
Mike

...is this the DVD changer to get? I have a slinke.

Thanks

--Caleb

[mcascio]

Originally posted by Boxster_T
Mario,

Been playing with ML for a few weeks now (very slick, BTW). I've seemed to run into what I'd call a bug in the way I'd expect the BackScene Command Line to work.

Most of my scenes are stored in the ML directory. However I'm using Johnathan's mp3 scripts to auto-magically generate mls scenes for artist/album data. These are stored in directories on a second dedicated drive for music. I've modified Johnathan's scripts to call a "visualization" scene stored in the main ML directory once an album is selected to play. (as an aside, this scene turned out very cool by using Girder event data from MJ to display album info and MJ's visualization engine to display syncopated visual graphics).

From the visualization scene I thought I could return to the scene that "called" it via the BACK SCENE command line. Doesn't work, just stays on the current scene. Remember that the visualization scene is not located in the same directory as the calling scene (any one of numerous "albumx.mls" scenes that are located in various album directories could call the visualation scene located in the ML directory). My guess is that ML does not maintain directory info as it hops across directories. But what do I know! ;)

Hope this makes sense. Being a newbie I may simply be doing it wrong but I've tried all I can think of. Any help would be appreciated.

Tom

Tom,
As noted in the manual, all MainLobby Scenes should be saved in the same directory as MainLobby.exe. I do plan to make it so MLS files can be stored anywhere although it's currently not high on the list.
Hopefully Jonathan's program will allow you to put the MLS file in a specified directory.

Can't get X10 to work yet, but haven't played much with it. First thing I notice is that I can't type in the "]" at the end of the "x10n[a6]" statement. That is the only key that won't type. I gotta figure this is why I can't get x10 to work.

smoothtlk,
I've noticed this problem before too. Not sure why this is happening, just seems to be a problem with that key. At first I thought maybe it was all the milk and cookies that have been dropped between my keyboard keys, but not someone else has noticed it. You don't have to exit to get it to be able to type though, just click your mouse outside of the text field box and then click back into it to get the "]" typed in. Without this, the command will not work.


Make sure you've added the device cm11a.cde in the MISC folder of the Slinke directory. Also, configure it to Port 0. You'll need to configure which port the CM11a is on from within SlinkeServ. Open SlinkeServ and then go to View | Options.

Also, make sure no other programs are using the CM11a. To test whether the Slinke is connecting to the CM11a, when it's connected, from SlinkeServ, you'll see an X10 graphic.


Caleb,
The Sony is currently the best deal that I know of for the money; however, by time I get it, there may be something else out that is progressive. :D

[PGPFan]

Hi Mario,

Just curious if you recieved the TT registry hack I sent you? Did you get it working?

-PGPfan

[mcascio]

PGPFan,
No I didn't receive it.
My PM might be full if you sent it there. Please send it to my email address when you get a chance.

Thanks.

[mcascio]

Hey Folks,

I'm burning the midnight oil tonight and decided to take a break from DVDLobby/MainLobby coding to come up with some new buttons for MainLobby.

I've added quite a few new ones that will be in the next release. These are some pretty cool buttons because they have a beveled edge that makes them look like they are popping out of the page. The beauty of the buttons are that they work on any color or image background. Take a look at this sample and notice how color patterns go through the buttons. You'd think the buttons were created specifically on this background. Drag them anywhere and they blend seamlessly into the background image.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/newbuttons0037.jpg

Doesn't take too much to get me excited these days. :D

[vbich]

Mario, you are teasing us, aren't you? ;)

[mcascio]

I sure am Vadim. :D

Out of curiousity, if you folks could add one feature to MainLobby 2, what would it be?
You can also list more, but please rank in order if you would.

BTW, I've finally hooked up the Ocelot. Their ActiveX is somewhat cryptic so I'll need to spend more time with it. I wasn't too impressed with the way their software works compared to the ease of use of the Slinke. Unless I'm doing something wrong, everytime you change or add an IR command, you need to send it to the Ocelot, which is very slow and time consuming. I'll keep plugging at it though.

[vbich]

OK, well, if you ran out of feature requests ;)

Feature 1:
Scrollable panel, kind of like in MCE front scene. It will give ML ability to have multiple buttons on a scene without reducing font size.

Feature 2:
[I would rank it higher than 1 but understand that this is very unorthodox request and I am not using ML it was originally intended to be used, so I am not holding my breath. Perhaps in ML 3.x?]

First of all:
I like ML
I'd like to have all my HTPC interface use ML or other lobbies
I do not program in Flash
But I still can program and could use ML with my own programs/scripts.
My music collection is not organized in albums and I cannot use CDLobby properly and would like to do some basic jukebox using ML (and because of 3 I cannot do it in Flash)

Feature: I'd ask for some API for non-flash code to be able to modify the button/label text dynamically, hide/show buttons, send keyboard events. Windows events is the easiest way I think.

It would also help a minority here who use ML with remote control/keyboard, not with the touchscreen as currently I am only able to send keystrokes to ML when it is the top window. If I put TV window on top of ML (in the corner), for example, I will not be able to send keystrokes to ML.

I hope it does not sound too insane :). If it does, just ignore it.

Thanks!

[Wysocki]

The feature I'd request would be getting program updates and bug fixes available before my hardware needs upgrading again.:rolleyes:

[dreicher]

Wysocki,

Could you please clarify the intent of your post for me? I am truly hoping that I am misunderstanding.

Just in case:

Mario,

Keep up the great work! I, for one, realize you can't release a compiled update every time you change a line of code or add a new button. I think I am not alone. I realize the excitement over this product may cause frustration whilst we await each successive step, but an understanding of the process, and your commitment to it, has made MainLobby what it is (while still in it's infancy). Thank you again for showing many of us the capabilities of Flash as an HTPC frontend. It has truly been eye-opening.

Dan

BTW: My feature request...stop me if you've heard this...an XML Socket Server for MainLobby. If someone with a lot of computer programming knowledge could FedEx me their brain for a couple of weeks - I would be happy to do it myself; otherwise, I will be forced to read and work (two of the worst 4 letters words in the English language).

[KRavEN]

Features:

1: HiPix support for the new TV Lobby. =] I'll take a stab at modifying the xmltv code to pull the listing and such from TitanTV along with the hipix program information. This would also be usefull for the othe HDTV cards because they're pretty much all able to add recordings through TitanTV too.

2: Ability to work with Glissando within MainLobby or a Media Jukebox lobby. Maybe da5id will sell you his source... =]

3. Instead of #2 a CD lobby that has an interface to rip, get cddb info, tag, search, display CD artwork, and show visualizations during playback. All fully customizable of course. =] Almost exactly like that Compaq IPAQ device that does all the same functions, but with the customizable part. An import option that reads the id3 tags, retreives any missing info, and puts them in the search database would be nice too.

4. While I'm at it, a DVDLobby request. Add an interface to rip your DVD's to iso, get cover artwork from the net, get reviews and synopsis from the net. The ripping part would of course not have to contain any ripping code, just a frontend to generally available software that can be found on the net.

[vbich]

KRavEN,

I second your #3. Only it has to be able to parse file names in addition to id3 tags

I would like to see ML (and other lobbies) as the only GUI (I am not talking about players, I am happy with ZP) on my HTPC

I do not think this is really a feature request for ML 2.0 though :) Not 2.0 and not ML.

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
Finally got MainLobby, Girder, slinke, DCOM, Homeseer working - all at the same time!
Should prove to be a powerful combo.

Slinke question: When I update devices and their associated cde and port config and then Save, on exit and relaunch of ML I find some of the devices are not there anymore. Usually though, Slinke sees them as updates in it's device tree, but ML doesn't reflect their existence so that the buttons can be assigned their functions - what gives? Persistence sometime wins out and eventually they will reshow. No know sequence of events that permits it. I will keep track and post if I find the rhythm.

David

[mcascio]

Sorry guys.

Don't have time to get back to everyone right now, but will once I return.

David,
One bug I found that you stumbled on is that all the Slinke device settings were being saved to the MLS files instead of mainlobby.ini. Which means unless you add the devices to each scene or at least the first scene loaded, you may run into problems.

I've fixed this in the latest update that will soon be available.

I've had to make updates to MainLobby in order to accomodate DVDLobby Pro 2, so I've been holding off sending out MainLobby 1.10.

[scottdw]

Is there any way NOT to have the ESC key close MainLobby????
I use MainLobby to launch Zoom Player and Esc to close Zoom, but if I hit Esc to many times or accidentally hold the remote control key down to long, which causes multiple presses of the ESC key, it closes MainLobby. This is a problem because for some reason, maybe a bug or something I am doing wrong, when I use Esc to close MainLobby my windows taskbar is hidden and the only way to get it back is to re-launch MainLobby and use the Exit button I have created or the Exit button built into MainLobby.

Any idea's??

Thanks

[dreicher]

Alright, now I'm just a little bit excited! TVLobby now has the ability to create a properly formatted .tvvi (viewing) and .tvpi (scheduled recording) for any capture/view program that works with TitanTV! Click the watch button and *presto* Showshifter changed channels for me. Click the record button and *presto* - a timed recording showed up!

Now short of building a socket server, anyone have any ideas about remotely executing the file. If I wanted to click 'watch' or 'record' on a Progear and have the correct file execute on my HTPC...any thoughts? It is a text file if that helps at all.

I basically have to remotely save the file and execute it on the remote computer; otherwise, TVLobby will only work on the computer that has the capture card. Nice, but not ideal.

With a socket server on the HTPC: it could receive the XML, write it to a file and execute it, but I'm looking for an quicker/easier way.

HDTV over-the-air, HiPix, etc. are still in the works. Stay tuned...

Get it? Stay tuned. It's late - I'm off to bed now.

Dan

[Guinn]

BTW, I've finally hooked up the Ocelot. Their ActiveX is somewhat cryptic so I'll need to spend more time with it. I wasn't too impressed with the way their software works compared to the ease of use of the Slinke. Unless I'm doing something wrong, everytime you change or add an IR command, you need to send it to the Ocelot, which is very slow and time consuming. I'll keep plugging at it though. [/B][/QUOTE]

good to hear. I have been using it with no problems in girder as a generic serial device. Since it has a real-time clock you can program it with homeseer and let it go. I have been so slammed with work and Christmas parties that I cannot play for the last 3 weeks. Too bad it is locked down @ 9600 Baud. That is why the transfers are so slow. I still think with a little patience it can be developed as an excellent platform given all the accessories that can be added for the last mile of automation that is only feasible with 12V triggers and variable transducers. Crestron is heavily dependent on voltage sensors and contact relays for devices that do not have IR or discrete on/off codes. Happy New Year everyone. Shane

[mcascio]

I just finished up MainLobby 2.10 - all users should have received an email with more information on this free upgrade.

Here's what you'll find in this latest version:
> View Button X and Y coordinates during Design & Edit Mode
> View Mouse X and Y coordinates
> New ML Command to Turn Off Monitor
> Mouse Pointer automatically disappears after 8 seconds of inactivity
> 24 New Buttons to Choose from
> New Time Feature (Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Year)
> Move Buttons to exact coordinates using the Arrow Keys for super-fast alignment (Shift key moves button 10 pixels)
> Button ID displays while in Design & Edit Mode
> Highlight the First Button upon Startup Option
> Associate the mls extension with MainLobby and you can double click on that extension to load as the startup scene in MainLobby
> Delete any button - not just the last button added
> New timer allows you to reload the startup Scene after a specified amount of time has passed
> Decreased compression on images to provide for sharper viewing
> Bug Fix: Buttons were improperly scaling when hitting cancel from Button Properties Panel
> Bug Fix: ML would only save first 8 Slinke device settings instead of 10
> Bug Fix: ML was saving all Slinke device settings to the Scene files instead of the ini file
> Bug Fix: Some users were experiencing problems with the first button losing focus even though the option was checked
> Bug Fix: You can now use the Enter key to select a button when using the Tab/Shift-Tab combination for selecting buttons

Many of the new buttons (Over 24 new ones in this latest release) are geared towards the idea of using MainLobby as an interface for controlling your components.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2.1buttons.jpg

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
your bug fixes make the product much more friendly!
New buttons look great. Just when I thought I was done with a few screens....

Do you have a good Flash MX how to build buttons 101 guide or link?

Any issue with supporting more than 10 slinke devices? I have already run out...

I am now thinking about macros. Could build events in Homeseer, triggered by Girder - any thoughts or examples of doing events in ML?

It would be great if one could right click on a button and paste it somewhere else where it could be edited. Ideally between mls screens.

Oh, and to select multiple buttons and move them as a cluster.

It would also be great to compose on 1024 desktop and then shrink to 800 for tablet. I haven't done much research into you existing screen resolution functions, but on first pass, can't figure out how to easily convert to lower screen resolutions without keeping multiple versions of mls files and graphics.

update: seems when I hover over a button in design mode, and then hold arrow key to slide the button that the cpu can't keep up (1.8 ghz athalon). App then slows way down. I will as a work around try your shift arrow trick.

I have switched most of my screens to your new buttons. Much nicer!

Thanx for the update already!
David

[mcascio]

Originally posted by scottdw
Is there any way NOT to have the ESC key close MainLobby????
I use MainLobby to launch Zoom Player and Esc to close Zoom, but if I hit Esc to many times or accidentally hold the remote control key down to long, which causes multiple presses of the ESC key, it closes MainLobby. This is a problem because for some reason, maybe a bug or something I am doing wrong, when I use Esc to close MainLobby my windows taskbar is hidden and the only way to get it back is to re-launch MainLobby and use the Exit button I have created or the Exit button built into MainLobby.

Any idea's??

Thanks

Scott,
I'll look into the possibility of disabling the ESC key for users.

Dan,
TVLobby is certainly taking shape. Keep up the good work. Don't forget to take a break and enjoy the New Year! :D

Guinn,
It looks like I'll need to find someone with VB experience to write some code as the go-between from MainLobby to the Ocelot ActiveX. Unfortunately this will slow my anticipated progress down.
The xfer speed is very slow, but like you said, the nice thing about the Ocelot is that it will run by itself when the computer is off.

your bug fixes make the product much more friendly!

smoothtlk,
With the additional features and bug fixes in this latest version, I think MainLobby is certainly becoming even easier to build interfaces.

Do you have a good Flash MX how to build buttons 101 guide or link?
There is a basic tutorial at:
http://www.cinemaronline.com/mainlobbytips.html
Someone was going to write a more comprehensive tutorial for creating buttons, but I have not received anything yet.

Any issue with supporting more than 10 slinke devices? I have already run out...

No issue with adding more devices. It was really just a matter of me running out of real estate. How many more do you need?
I really need to redo the whole Slinke way devices are added, more similar to how Nirvis' does it with their software. It would just take a couple hours to do it.

I am now thinking about macros. Could build events in Homeseer, triggered by Girder - any thoughts or examples of doing events in ML?
What type of macros did you have in mind from within MainLobby? Or are you asking how would you trigger events in HomeSeer from within MainLobby?

It would be great if one could right click on a button and paste it somewhere else where it could be edited. Ideally between mls screens.
I plan on adding copy and paste features into MainLobby hopefully within the next update.

Oh, and to select multiple buttons and move them as a cluster.

This is also something I have planned. It's actually going to be really neat the way it works. Stay tuned. It should also allow you to quickly, hide, delete, sort z-order, etc. all from one panel.

It would also be great to compose on 1024 desktop and then shrink to 800 for tablet. I haven't done much research into you existing screen resolution functions, but on first pass, can't figure out how to easily convert to lower screen resolutions without keeping multiple versions of mls files and graphics.

You should be able to just create one version in 1024 mode and then scale the entire interface to fit on the 800x600 tablet by going into OPTIONS | DISPLAY. No need to create two versions.

update: seems when I hover over a button in design mode, and then hold arrow key to slide the button that the cpu can't keep up (1.8 ghz athalon). App then slows way down. I will as a work around try your shift arrow trick.

I've noticed this too. Not sure why it's doing that. The trick is to not hold the key down and just press it while you are moving it. I think you can hold the shift key down fine, but it's when you hold the arrow key down for an extended period.

I have switched most of my screens to your new buttons. Much nicer!

I agree. They really add some spice. Don't forget to post some examples (Screenshots/Scene files) of how you guys are using the buttons to create your interfaces. It not only helps me, but everyone else. There's a big opportunity to share resources and talent. Here's the link to the MainLobby Swap Scenes thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=1626268&highlight=mainlobby+screenshots#post1626268

[KRavEN]

Originally posted by smoothtlk

Do you have a good Flash MX how to build buttons 101 guide or link?


I've started work on it, have quite a few screen shots now. I just need to get the wording and HTML together. I got sidetracked the last few days on this Dtivo upgrade I'm doing.

[smoothtlk]

Mario,
I think Homeseer supports 20 slinke devices. That should do me fine. Even a second page of what you have now would work fine. Now that the bugs seem to be gone, no prob with the screen you have. What if you added a "more" button to the bottom of the slinke config screen which would save current screen settings, blank it out, and allow for additional user inputs which would be appended.

What I mean by Event is to fire sequence of events: Hitting the "watch DVD" button would fire up the projector (if it isn't on already based on a set variable), turn on the DVD player, switch the source selector to DVD, drop the screen, turn on the Lexicon, turn on the amps, bring up the "Pick a DVD" screen (DVD Lobby? - haven't tried it yet, but it may be next...) Drop the lights, have homeseer announce the show, play the theatre intro, flash the house lights, turn on the lobby lights, etc.

What part of the above Event process do you see MainLobby contributing beyond launching the request? I have figured out how to launch a girder event from MainLobby which then triggers a Homeseer event. I anticipate I will do the bulk of the sequencing within Homeseer script.


Kraven - looking forward to your flash for dummies step by step to neat buttons. I think once I have seen one complete process I will be able to figure out flash more efficiently.

Thanx
David

[dreicher]

Dan,
TVLobby is certainly taking shape. Keep up the good work. Don't forget to take a break and enjoy the New Year!


Mario,

I always enjoy the new year. It's a perfect opportunity to get really drunk and forget all the bad crap that happened the year before. :)

Spent last night working on the "setup" screen and .ini file for TVLobby. Now you can run multiple instances of TVLobby and have them use different listing files. Plus, I added the capability to specify 5 user-defined categories for color-coding in the program guide (ie, Children's, Sports, News, Soaps, etc.) The user defines the category and the color.

Setup custom extensions and the ability to remotely save the listing information for viewing/recording and the ability to either execute the file locally (on the HTPC) or trigger a girder event to execute it remotely. So now, I can save the .tvvi file to //HTPC/program.tvvi from a Progear and then fire a tvlobby_watch command via girder to tell the HTPC to open the file and do it's magic. It's actually pretty slick.

Still want to add an on-screen keyboard to the search utility (for tablet users, including myself) and try and figure out a way to locally/remotely view and delete the scheduled recordings. After that, it's a matter of working on the GUI (ya ready?) and doing some real world testing. BTW, did you add Arial Narrow Bold to the embedded fonts in ML 2.10? I could really take advantage of it. Some other things I want to try and get in, but I think people are starting to get a little anxious. :)

Dan

[vbich]

Originally posted by mcascio
I just finished up MainLobby 2.10 - all users should have received an email with more information on this free upgrade.


Mario,

I hope I am doing something wrong - I cannot get arrow keys to move selection, regardless of what "use KBD arrow keys" option is. When it is on, then yellow box appears but still I cannot get arrows to move it

And "hide desktop" option is reversed - it hides the desktop when unchecked and shows it when checked.

P.S. Anxiously awaiting for an ability to load a scene into already working ML :)

Thanks!

[mcascio]

KRavEN,
No problem. Enjoy the New Year. The docs can always wait.
I love to put off writing documents too. :D

I always enjoy the new year. It's a perfect opportunity to get really drunk and forget all the bad crap that happened the year before.

Dan,
Sounds like I'll be doing the same. :)

Which card are you using with your setup for TVLobby?
It looks I'll be adding another card to my system for testing. :)
I'd prefer to have the same setup as you to make the transition as seamless as possible.

I didn't get the Arial Narrow Bold into 2.10, but it's in the latest version along with some other updates I made today. I'll send you an updated file which includes that font along with Arial Narrow and some directional symbols which people may find useful.

vbich,
Unfortunately, the arrow keys are not functioning in 2.10 - I didn't have time to get them working properly. By adding the arrow key control while in design mode, it disabled their use for the yellow highlight feature. I need to do some more testing and you'll have a version that is much better without the yellow highlight.

My brain may be fried, where's the "hide desktop" option?

P.S. Anxiously awaiting for an ability to load a scene into already working ML

You did know you can launch the initial MLS scene from explorer right? I'm still working on having MainLobby recognize other scenes that are attempted to be opened when MainLobby is already open.

smoothtlk,
I've added support for up to 20 Slinke devices per your request.

I do have some ideas for an ordered list of options that users can add to similiar to the way a Pronto works allowing the user to even add timers and delays. It's probably a Version 3.0 feature though by time I get to it.
In the meantime, I think using Girder/Slinke/HomeSeer combo should do the trick - correct?

NOTE to Slinke Users: There was a bug I found while adding more devices. In the current version 2.10 - it looks like when you go into the Button Properties panel, it would only show the first 8 devices in the drop down. This has been fixed and will now show all 20.

Also, little tip here, I bet you could use a batch file on startup to add more devices to the Slinke - then just call them from MainLobby.

[mcascio]

Dan,
Is your email working yet?

Also folks,
4 new buttons have been added for the next release. I'm sure there will be many more as well.

To all, have a safe New Year and put one down for me. I'll be throwing a party at my place. Just loaded up with 10 cases of Miller Lite. I wonder what my guests will be drinking. :D

[vbich]

Mario,

It is "hide taskbar", not "hide desktop". Sorry, I need a peltier cooler on my brain today. Or a cold beer :)

"See" you all in 2003!
Happy New Year!

[dreicher]

Mario,

Yeah - I'm back online now. I'm using Showshifter and a ATI Radeon 7500 AIW, but I think any capture card that Showshifter supports should do the trick. Look forward to having Arial Narrow at my disposal. If you could be sure and Bold it that would be great. Can't wait to see the directional arrows. I think we should probably dump the directional arrows routines, setup function, and search function into ML commands so that users can use/place their own buttons.

10 cases of Miller Lite? You guys don't have kegs in Wisconsin? :)

Be safe. Cheers!

Dan

[mcascio]

vbich,

I fixed that bug - thanks. Just changed the wording.

Dan,
I'll send you an email shortly with the update. I've included Arial Narrow Bold.

Can't wait to see the directional arrows. I think we should probably dump the directional arrows routines, setup function, and search function into ML commands so that users can use/place their own buttons.

Not following you here. ??

10 cases of Miller Lite? You guys don't have kegs in Wisconsin?

My friends are all at the age where they are too good for Kegs. :D

Thanks for the info on the card. I'll see what other cards Showshifter will support.

[mcascio]

Here's a screen shot that has a couple new buttons that I've added since MainLobby 2.10. Only three of the buttons aren't already included in MainLobby 2.10. Since the addition of the new Directions font, you can add directional arrows to your buttons. I'm going to look into creating my own fonts with Pause, stop, play, etc. Pronto's font doesn't seem to work for some reason.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot07.jpg

[mbunting]

MainLobby Questions from a HTPC newbie:

I have researched abit - but I am still somewhat "confuse/iffy" about what I need to fully use the features of the MainLobby program.

Background info on my HTPC:

Current components:

ASUS MoBo: A7N266 (w/ Dolby Digital Encoding on-board)
CPU: AMD Athlon XP 1700+
OS: Windows XP SP 1
HD: WD 80 GB (7200 RPM/ATA 100/8 MB Buffer)
Liteon DVD ROM Drive
Inwin Micro ATX case
128 MB DDR RAM
A/V Receiver: Denon 3802
Display: Sony 57HW40 (DVD and HD inputs ISF Calibrated by Gregg Loewen from the HTF

Planned additions over the next couple months:

1. More DDR RAM

2. Video Card: Still researching

3. Capture card: Still researching OTA HD capture card or regular capture card - I have Digital Cable w/ a few HD channels only right now via AT&T

4. Sound card: I shouldn't need one - my board has both optical and coax digital out connections)

5. Wireless (RF?) Keyboard and Mouse

6. VGA to Component Transcoder (Audio Authority model)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now - what do I need to buy to make use of the MainLobby program?

A Slinke? I thought thouse only worked with CD/DVD changers?

Girder? I'm not sure what this is...is it software or hardware?

Anything else?

The program looks incredible!!! I really want to use it!

I currently use a Philips Pronto remote for my Home Theater - and it works very very well - That being said - I would prefer something else - and I'm hoping MainLobby has what I have been looking for.

Can somebody give me the low-down?

Thanks for any and all help!

Suggestions/comment on my current/proposed HTPC setup are always welcome!

[mcascio]

Hi mbunting,

I think the bigger question is how do you want to use MainLobby?

That will determine what other tools you may need.

You would add the Slinke if you want to control anything IR - not just CD/DVD players. With more and more buttons being added to MainLobby, it's really easy to recreate what you would see on the front of your components and then control them from MainLobby using the Slinke.
If you wanted, you could pull in a photo of your component and then map the buttons too.

Girder is a software program. It allows you to do some more advanced tasks with MainLobby or by itself. An entire book could/should be written on Girder alone. Knowing what you would like to do might answer the question whether you need it or not.

Many are using web tablets to control their equipment. In this case, you may need Girder to control your HTPC and launch specific programs, then you could also use the Slinke to configure your actual stereo components if necessary.

If you are displaying MainLobby on your main viewing screen, you could just use the Pronto to make menu selections. MainLobby would just act as the GUI between all your programs.

[mcascio]

Here's another sample layout.

Just changed some colors...moved some buttons around and voila!
A brand new look for your HTPC interface.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot09.jpg

[mbunting]

Thanks for the quick reply Mario!

Yes, I want to be able to view MainLobby on my main display (Sony 57HW40) for the most part - and then maybe down the road - have a seperate flat screen monitor (or maybe I will go with a Web Tablet) near the main seating area to act as a display.

I would like (at some point) to be able to "point and click" so to speak, using the wireless mouse/keyboard to launch a macro (similair to what the Pronto does for me now) which would:

Power On: DVD player - Receiver - dim the lights - and then Play the movie (with just one click)

But for now - I can get by with just using the Pronto - as it works fine.

I am interested in the Slinke/Girder option in the future- if they work well...but for this option (and let me get this straight) I would need a web tablet along with Girder software and the Slinke device - as using the HTPC "point and click" approach will not suffice?

And if I was to just use my TV as the display for MainLobby and use it as a GUI - like you mentioned above - how would that work?

I would assume that since one of my (2) component inputs on my TV would be dedicated to the HTPC - and that in between viewing say TV and watching a DVD that I would setup a macro on my Pronto to go to my designated HTPC input after I'm done watching TV - so that I can proceed on with watching a DVD.

I'm probably making this all too complicated - and I apologize :)

I am also wanting to use your DVDLobby software (for what though? I'm not quite sure yet - as I do not have a changer of any kind) and also the CDLobby (to Launch MP3's from my Network of 3 PC's).

If I may ask, what are some of the uses of DVDLobby for folks who do not have DVD changers?

I'm thinking that I could use it as a way to show-off my DVD/LD collection when friends/family come over (versus opening up my storage cabinet) and I also like the fact that it can import Data from DVDProfiler - which I currently use. Is there something I'm missing that DVDLobby could also do for me?

In a nutshell:

I would like a cool way to show off my Home Theater when friends and family come over!

HD/DVD's/LD's/MP3 playback capability (with an easy to use interface)

This seems like the program that I have been looking for and I'm probably going to purchase it here soon - yes, the whole suite!

[dreicher]

Mario,


Dan,
I'll send you an email shortly with the update. I've included Arial Narrow Bold.


Thanks - got it.


Not following you here. ??


I'm hoping that you can add these functions (TVLobby Up, TVLobby Down, TVLobby Right, TVLobby Left, TVLobby Setup, TVLobby Search) to the MLCommand Line (by putting the functions directly in MainLobby) so that end users can place their own buttons on the screen where/how they want them. Some users may want the directional buttons hidden with just keys assigned to them - others may want them there for touchscreen use. 16:9 users may need to position them differently than 4:3 users as well.

My friends are all at the age where they are too good for Kegs.

Well, la-ti-da. :)

Thanks for everything. BTW, that new interface (the gold) - that is quite possibly the most beautiful thing I've seen in a while.

Dan

[Jay Wilson]

My friends are all at the age where they are too good for Kegs.

Too good or can't handle it anymore :D

Ah...the good ole days of a multi kegger by a bonfire.

Mario, just talked with my Sony rep...supposedly they have some product going to hit after the 1st of the year. I am waiting on a return email to see when we will be taken care of. ;)

I'll keep you posted.

BTW, love all the stuff you've done! I am still holding off doing anything until you release DVDLobby 2.0. Can't wait! I did go ahead and catalog everything in the new DVDprofiler in anticipation.

Thank you again!

[mdownard]

Originally posted by Jay Wilson
Mario, just talked with my Sony rep...supposedly they have some product going to hit after the 1st of the year. I am waiting on a return email to see when we will be taken care of. ;)

FWIW, I placed a couple of DVP-CX875P's on order and was told by 3 different vendors that Jan 8th is the expected date of availability. Don't know if that impacts you or not but you may be interested.


Mike

[mcascio]

Power On: DVD player - Receiver - dim the lights - and then Play the movie (with just one click)

mbunting,
For this feature, assuming you have external stand-a-lone components, you could use the Slinke to do this from a button in MainLobby.

I am interested in the Slinke/Girder option in the future- if they work well...but for this option (and let me get this straight) I would need a web tablet along with Girder software and the Slinke device - as using the HTPC "point and click" approach will not suffice?

Actually, I think you may be slightly confused. Adding a SLinke/Girder doesn't necessarily mean you'll need a webtablet. Think of the Slinke as a device to help you physically control your external stand-a-lone components whether you are using a computer or webtablet.
Here's just one situation where you might use Girder, you have a webtablet and you want to lauch a movie located on your HTPC. You would send a Girder Event to the HTPC which tells the computer to launch a specific AVI/VOB movie file if the movie is stored on the hard drive. Girder doesn't have to be used with a web tablet either. It could be used on the HTPC itself alone.

And if I was to just use my TV as the display for MainLobby and use it as a GUI - like you mentioned above - how would that work?

In a very basic setup, you could just have 1 MainLobby Scene with buttons labeled:
-Watch TV
-Play Movie
-Surf Internet
-Listen to Music

You could use your pronto to emulate these buttons.
TIP: even use MainLobby to do the graphics for your Pronto by scaling them down to fit on the screen.

Now, for some listening to music may require just loading up something like CDLobby, MusicMatch, or MediaJukebox. For others it may require configuring your external components which could be either done with the Pronto or the Slinke.

So if you are using your Main TV as the display, you would switch inputs say if you pressed Play Movie. Make Sense?

I would assume that since one of my (2) component inputs on my TV would be dedicated to the HTPC - and that in between viewing say TV and watching a DVD that I would setup a macro on my Pronto to go to my designated HTPC input after I'm done watching TV - so that I can proceed on with watching a DVD.

You got it!

I'm thinking that I could use it as a way to show-off my DVD/LD collection when friends/family come over (versus opening up my storage cabinet) and I also like the fact that it can import Data from DVDProfiler - which I currently use. Is there something I'm missing that DVDLobby could also do for me?

That's how quite a few people are using it. It's nice to be able to peruse your movie collection with opening the cabinet. It's also much easier to read the Overview information onscreen than on the back of the DVD case itself.

I'm hoping that you can add these functions (TVLobby Up, TVLobby Down, TVLobby Right, TVLobby Left, TVLobby Setup, TVLobby Search) to the MLCommand Line (by putting the functions directly in MainLobby) so that end users can place their own buttons on the screen where/how they want them. Some users may want the directional buttons hidden with just keys assigned to them - others may want them there for touchscreen use. 16:9 users may need to position them differently than 4:3 users as well.

Ahhhh...gotcha Dan. :)

Thanks for everything. BTW, that new interface (the gold) - that is quite possibly the most beautiful thing I've seen in a while.

You're welcome. Glad you like the Gold/Platinum interface. The instant beveled buttons that come with MainLobby 2.10 are truly a shift in the way I can make backgrounds and buttons from here on it. Typically I would have had to make the bevels into the background limited the user from placing buttons in only those areas. Now, you can move the buttons anywhere and the beveled inset look goes with them and blends seamlessly into the background. Once I again, I get excited over this stuff very easily. :D

Too good or can't handle it anymore

I think the mornings were killing them from the drinking from the barrel. Of course I'm sure it didn't help that they would drink the whole barrel. :D

That's good news on the Changer. Hopefully it arrives with the same shipment as Mike's. I'm anxious to actually start setting up the control of the changer specifically for this unit.

[dreicher]

Took a break from the development side to monkey around with the interface. So, here's what I've done:

Added alpha blends to the program and channel buttons, reconfigured the layout to accomodate more information (category, current date) and to try and squeeze it into an easier 16:9 transition. The alpha blends, IMHO, turned out quite nice and really added a touch of class.

Now, I've got about a dozen or so buttons to make (Mario?) and some code cleanup. Let me know what you think - it's starting to get too late in the game to start making changes. :)

Enjoy!

Dan

[dreicher]

BTW: Mario, thanks for the Narrow font - huge improvement! Especially on the 1/2 hour programs.

Dan

[mbunting]

Thanks for all your help Mario!

I think I understand everything now - again - thanks to you!

I will do some research on what exactly I want to do - and I'll be placing my order for the mainLobby Suite sometime real soon.

[KRavEN]

Originally posted by dreicher
Took a break from the development side to monkey around with the interface. So, here's what I've done:

Added alpha blends to the program and channel buttons, reconfigured the layout to accomodate more information (category, current date) and to try and squeeze it into an easier 16:9 transition. The alpha blends, IMHO, turned out quite nice and really added a touch of class.

Now, I've got about a dozen or so buttons to make (Mario?) and some code cleanup. Let me know what you think - it's starting to get too late in the game to start making changes. :)

Enjoy!

Dan

Very Very nice Dan. Cant wait!!

Just a thought. I nice added feature, if it isn't too hard to implement, would be a box, next to the guide on the right in the empty space below the time, that shows a to-do type list of upcoming recordings for that day.

Just a thought. =]

[dreicher]

Just a thought. I nice added feature, if it isn't too hard to implement, would be a box, next to the guide on the right in the empty space below the time, that shows a to-do type list of upcoming recordings for that day.


KRavEN,

Thanks. I would like to (at some point) add in the ability to view/delete scheduled recordings - but that's going to be an undertaking (interfacing remotely with Showshifter from Flash); however, I needed that area under time for the buttons - just hadn't done them yet. Here is the interface I ended up with.

I've got some cleanup work to do, docs, etc. But I think I'm about ready to wrap this baby up and turn it over to Mario for some final touches and integration to MainLobby. Look for it soon. Once it's out - I'll continue to work on over-the-air HDTV, and some other ideas I've got. If you've got any more let me know. I'll do what I can.

Dan

[dreicher]

And the Search window (with working on-screen keyboard). :)

Dan

[dreicher]

And the Setup screen. Here you set your custom categories, select the display colors for those categories. Signify your XMLTV command line settings (and update listings). You also specify the file you want to save for recording/watching and the action you want triggered after the file is saved.

Dan

[freat]

Awesome! I can't wait till it's ready... Mario definitely needs to integrate this. I've been trying to decide what to use. You made up my mind.

Thanks for the work!

[dreicher]

freat,

Welcome to the club! :)

We'll make believers out a few more along the way - I'm sure.

Dan

[ccclapp]

Originally posted by mcascio

TIP: even use MainLobby to do the graphics for your Pronto by scaling them down to fit on the screen.


..Mario, this shound very interesting. Could you say a little more / go into a bit more detail about this:)

Thanks

--Caleb

[mcascio]

Originally posted by mbunting
Thanks for all your help Mario!

I think I understand everything now - again - thanks to you!

I will do some research on what exactly I want to do - and I'll be placing my order for the mainLobby Suite sometime real soon.

mbunting,
Glad I could be of service.

I've got some cleanup work to do, docs, etc. But I think I'm about ready to wrap this baby up and turn it over to Mario for some final touches and integration to MainLobby. Look for it soon. Once it's out - I'll continue to work on over-the-air HDTV, and some other ideas I've got. If you've got any more let me know. I'll do what I can.

Hey Dan,
I'm looking forward to it. My new years resolution is going to be becoming more efficient with my time and better organized. Which should help me work faster and continue to add more Lobby packages and actually wrap up DVDLobby 2. :D

The screen shots are looking good. Once I get my hands on it, I can work on prettying it up even more.

Caleb,
Regarding using MainLobby to design your Pronto graphics.
Take a peek at what I did. Although I didn't take the time to break them up for ProntoEdit, the hard part of designing the interface only took about 10 minutes. Not too bad! And the nice thing is that you can create an interface that is consistant as far as image from your Pronto to what is displayed on your screen. What would be really cool is if I could figure out a way to actually have MainLobby automatically break up the images and make it ready for import into ProntoEdit. (Don't hold your breath on that one though)

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/240x219colorpronto.jpg

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/240x219colorpronto_lights.jpg

I'll post a quick tutorial on how you actually get the images from MainLobby into the Pronto in a little bit.

[ccclapp]

Originally posted by mcascio

Caleb,
Regarding using MainLobby to design your Pronto graphics.
Take a peek at what I did. Although I didn't take the time to break them up for ProntoEdit, the hard part of designing the interface only took about 10 minutes. Not too bad! And the nice thing is that you can create an interface that is consistant as far as image from your Pronto to what is displayed on your screen. What would be really cool is if I could figure out a way to actually have MainLobby automatically break up the images and make it ready for import into ProntoEdit. (Don't hold your breath on that one though)

I'll post a quick tutorial on how you actually get the images from MainLobby into the Pronto in a little bit.

...VERY NICE Mario!

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think one can make invissible buttons in ProntoEdit. If so, we can simply place these on top of your scene (panel). Doesn't that make it fully usable TODAY?

Thanks

--Caleb

[stickman]

Some clearification.
1. Is TVLobby strictly for scheduling recordings? or can you view tv right from MainLobby?
2. Will it be able to list recorded shows?
3. Will it require ShowShifter or some other application?
4. When can I get a copy? :-)

Thanks and keep up the good work,
Jason

[ccclapp]

Mario

In thinking about this for all of 5 min, there may be another great result from this Pronto Integration:

Since NetRemote works off ccf files, doesn't this mean we can now have uniform GUI across all devices: HTPC with MainLobby as front end; MainLobby exported ccf panels on Pronto; MainLobby exported ccf panels on NetRemote (with added benefits over Pronto of 2-way communication, etc, etc); MainLobby on Webtab/Progear.

Wouldn't this type of integration of MainLobby and NetRemote be a very good thing? Wouldn't it essentially make NetRemote a true PPC client "virtually" running MainLobby?

I have not moved over to NetRemote from Pronto yet, so I may be missing something;)

Thanks

--Caleb

[mcascio]

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think one can make invissible buttons in ProntoEdit. If so, we can simply place these on top of your scene (panel). Doesn't that make it fully usable TODAY?

Caleb,
I'm pretty sure you can't make invisible buttons in ProntoEdit. It's been a while since I worked with it. I did a quick check and didn't see any option immediately. Perhaps someone else can verify.
I'll try to add more buttons that will help users to design more for this smaller type of interface.

Since NetRemote works off ccf files, doesn't this mean we can now have uniform GUI across all devices: HTPC with MainLobby as front end; MainLobby exported ccf panels on Pronto; MainLobby exported ccf panels on NetRemote (with added benefits over Pronto of 2-way communication, etc, etc); MainLobby on Webtab/Progear.

That's right - you could have a seamless look across all platforms and devices.

Wouldn't this type of integration of MainLobby and NetRemote be a very good thing? Wouldn't it essentially make NetRemote a true PPC client "virtually" running MainLobby?

I still have yet to use NetRemote so I'm not exactly sure how it works, but it really wouldn't be anything more than providing a MainLobby look graphically - nothing on the backend would really be tieing in. That's something to look forward to in the future though. Still too many things on my plate to throw in another device. :D

[dreicher]

Some clearification.
1. Is TVLobby strictly for scheduling recordings? or can you view tv right from MainLobby?
2. Will it be able to list recorded shows?
3. Will it require ShowShifter or some other application?
4. When can I get a copy? :-)

Thanks and keep up the good work,
Jason


Jason,

Thanks.

1. TVLobby at this point works almost identically to the TitanTV.com EPG/Interface. It displays what's on and based on what time it is gives you the option to watch (currently playing show) or record (future playing show). When choosing watch or record it builds an XML file in the TitanTV format (as would be downloaded from TitanTV) and places it on the computer/directory of your choosing. At that point, it opens either locally or remotely via Girder. Essentially, it is a PVR frontend to any program that works with TitanTV. The main benefit is the remote execution of the file - allowing you to view program information/watch/record from a PC/web pad other than your HTPC. As it matures, I would like to implement a lot of features to accomodate more situations, but I think we've got a good start.

2. Not right away. Initially, it will not be able to list recorded shows or shows scheduled to be recorded. Both things are on my list and I'm trying to come up with effective ways to do them.

3. Yes. Trying to build this type of capability into MainLobby and have it accomodate everyone's specific uses of MainLobby would be impossible. The TitanTV connection allows it to work with most PVR programs; however, I have only used ShowShifter. I would, of course, like to accomodate every possible program going forward; however, to get recorded shows/scheduled recordings/etc. - I will probably stick to ShowShifter and one or two more.

4. Soon. :) There's still some finishing touches I'd like to put on it and clean up some code to try and squeeze some more speed out of the data handling. At that point, Mario will "pretty it up" a bit (as only he can), do some final integration with MainLobby (at which point another update will be distributed) and make it available. So, we're still a couple of weeks away - worst case scenario.

Some things I'm trying to implement going forward:

More user-customization of the interface
Favorites (up to 12 user-defined channels on one screen)
Ability to view/delete scheduled recordings
Ability to view/launch recorded shows

BTW: on that one, I'll be revisiting my "episode" scene and making that available again if you've got multiple episodes of a single show (ie, Sopranos)

Command-line builder for integration with non-TitanTV programs.
AccessDTV/HiPix/HDTV OTA integration
Other changes based on feedback

Thanks again to everyone for your help and feedback during the creation of this. I hope you enjoy it.

Dan

[ccclapp]

Originally posted by mcascio
Caleb,
I'm pretty sure you can't make invisible buttons in ProntoEdit. It's been a while since I worked with it. I did a quick check and didn't see any option immediately. Perhaps someone else can verify.

A button can be a bitmap file. Does anyone know if one can create an invisible/transparent bitmap? If so, this may do it.

Thanks

--Caleb

[mcascio]

Dan,
TVLobby is taking great shape! Keep up the awesome job.

Caleb,
I took a second look at Pronto edit and couldn't find anything on a possible transparent color unfortunately. Using a program like Photoshop, you should be able to quickly break up the images though.

BTW, here's a screenshot from some an interface I built using some of the newer buttons I've recently added to MainLobby.
This next free upgrade will contain at least another 70 new buttons and graphics!

Including more graphics that pertain to use of arrow keys, volume buttons, etc.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot10.jpg

[MrPenPad]

Mario,

Your screen shots certainly give me baited breath but I am looking for something where I can play streaming video over IP from my HTPC to my Fujitsu C-500 pen tablet with floating buttons that appear over the full screen video at a touch of the screen and dissolve on command or timeout.

Is this something that mainlobby 2.1 can do today ?

[mcascio]

MrPenPad,

Unfortunately overlaying graphics on top of video is something I haven't figured out yet. Not to say it won't happen in the future though.


Still playing around with more designs and new buttons.

http://www.cinemaronline.com/avsforum/ml2_screenshot11.jpg

[PGPFan]

Mario-

You truely are a mean guy! Each time I get my htpc to the point that I'm pleased with the way it looks, you go and post a new screenshot!

It's just NOT FAIR!! ;) ;)

Seriously, I look forward to you posting some details on how to import some of the buttons/etc. into the Pronto. I'm going to pick up the new one (16 shades of gray, and hard buttons) so I'd of course like everything to look like one happy family.

BTW, I emailed you the TT hack, did you get it?

Thanks!

-PGPfan

[mcascio]

PGPFan,

Sorry. That's the one problem with this hobby. It seems like you can tweak and tweak and never be done.

At least it's enjoyable. :D

I've posted a tutorial in a new thread so it wouldn't get lost in this one. If you have comments or thoughts on the Pronto/PocketPC/MainLobby combo, perhaps respond in that thread.

Link to Tutorial on using MainLobby to create stunning Pronto Graphics (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=207649)

Thanks for the TT info. I still haven't tried it. I think I need a little more info as far as what to edit. I'll write you back right before I actually go and try it. Thanks again.

[s.morris]

Hi Mario,

love the look of you new panels above, would it be possible to provide just a update for the button and back ground ,say provide a passworded download area, you keep showing use these great buttons and the only problem is we have to wait till the next upgrade before we can use them

Steve Morris

[MrPenPad]

Steve has a good idea.

I just joined the ranks as yet another proud owner of Main Lobby.

[s.morris]

Hi Mario
I understand that you will not wan't to provide all your button and backgrounds for free but it would be nice to be able to get the ones that are with out waiting for the update

steve

[mdownard]

Originally posted by dreicher
freat,

Welcome to the club! :)

We'll make believers out a few more along the way - I'm sure.

Dan


Dan - Thanks, thanks a lot. Now every time I use the interface on my Dish Network PVR501 recorder I'll have to wish it was yours!


Mike

[skeeterfood]

Hi Mario,

I just started playing with 2.10 yesterday... Boy are all the new buttons and backgrounds pretty!

Unfortunately, I've run into what I think are a few bugs that all happend while editing a button:
1) Hitting enter seems to change some items completely unrelated to the field you're editing, the only one I noticed consistently was the text color always changed back to black.

2) The arrow keys no longer work while editing the text fields.

3) I can't send command line parameters to ZoomPlayer. I can start ZoomPlayer just fine without any parameters, but no matter what parameters I try to pass, I get ZoomPlayer started with the Chapter Edit window open in a state I can't close it... (Might be a ZoomPlayer problem, but it works fine from a console window, or a batch file)

[FONT=courier new]C:\Program Files\Zoom Player\zplayer.exe,D:\Movies\...\test.mpg[/FONT]

or

[FONT=courier new]C:\Program Files\Zoom Player\zplayer.exe,/Z[/FONT] (should start in Zoom mode)

4) The Program/Media File box doesn't seem to work with media files. I've tried putting .avi's, .mpg's, .mp3's and nothing works.

5) Double-clicking on a file in a file-browser opened from a Browse button sometimes selects, clears, then re-opens the file-browser. Clicking the open button in the File-browser always seems to work.

Some wish-list items:
1) Independent X & Y scaling of buttons without scaling the button text. This would be really useful for the Tivo-like buttons.

2) A way to keep buttons out of the tab-list.

3) For the Tivo-like button, have the text centered vertically in the button, no matter what the text-size. It currently seems to be aligned with the top of the button.

And one, this would be really cool, but probably too much to hope for item:
1) Generate an array of buttons using the filenames of files in a specified directory and make the buttons launch the default handler for the file type when the button is pressed. Oh, and automatically generate previous/next buttons when there are more than a speficied number of files :)

[dreicher]

Mario,

Trying to build a custom buttons library and using MainLobby to place them instead of updating all my scenes from within Flash and republishing them. Just putting a button into the library doesn't work. I even tried putting it in as a Movie Clip and it still isn't registering in the drop-down.

What am I missing?

Thanks.
Dan

[dreicher]

Some wish-list items:
1) Independent X & Y scaling of buttons without scaling the button text. This would be really useful for the Tivo-like buttons.


smackbadger,

I may be able to shed some light on a couple of these. While independent X & Y scaling is possible, the text is going to be scaled along with the button. The textfield associated with the button is part of the button clip and therefore is going to be scaled with the button. This was one of the biggest challenges I encountered when building TVLobby. Unfortunately, not all programs are the same length - so I have to build the program display in four steps.

Step 1: Put the program button on the screen, place it correctly and scale it to the proper width.
Step 2: Put the textfield on top of the button (independently) and scale it to the proper width - without scaling the text.
Step 3: Put the left side of the program on depending if it ends on the screen or not (rounded close or arrow pointing left).
Step 4: Put the right side of the program on...

It would be nice if Flash had an option to keep from scaling text boxes when a button or movie clip is scaled.


And one, this would be really cool, but probably too much to hope for item:
1) Generate an array of buttons using the filenames of files in a specified directory and make the buttons launch the default handler for the file type when the button is pressed. Oh, and automatically generate previous/next buttons when there are more than a speficied number of files


This is technically possible a number of different ways. If you could be more specific on what your trying to accomplish as an end result - I think your wish could be granted. MainLobby does accomodate returning a list of files in a folder (via programming) and those files could easily be converted to an array and movie clips for each built off of them. I would like to use this to do something similar with TVLobby going forward.

Hope this sheds some light on your questions. The other two are things that Mario is going to have to accomodate and the bugs are for him to.

Dan

[dreicher]

smackbadger,

Let me clarify: the ability to recurse a directory and extract file information should be available from within MainLobby in the not-to-distant future. :)

In fact, the ability to recurse a directory and only get a specific file extension (ie, .mp3 or .avi) will be available. Also folders, folder information, etc. Once this is done - one (any volunteers) could create an "explorer" type interface within MainLobby. Now, if I could only figure out a reason to have that capability: ExplorerLobby!

Add that to:

RecipeLobby
LightLobby
DVDLobby (the new one)
CDLobby (the new one)
TVLobby
WebLobby
PhotoLobby
EpisodeLobby
SecurityCameraLobby
WeatherLobby
TriviaLobby
WhereDidILeaveMyCarKeysLobby

...well, you get the idea. There's a lot to be done. :) MainLobby currently has so many different capabilities that have gone untapped and are undocumented - it's frightening! So, I propose:

If the sky were the limit and anything were possible - What would you want to do with MainLobby?

Let it rip, you may be surprised at what is possible...

Dan

[dreicher]

Mike,

Just tell DishNetwork to make me an offer, and we'll get you all setup. K? Seriously, I think we're all spinning with the possibilities right now and it would be nice to keep this momentum up for another six months or so. We've only begun to scratch the surface. Imagine using MainLobby/TVLobby to control your DishNetwork PVR, or somehow getting the live feed to be available within the interface (like you have currently). We're not out of the realm here.

I really think that there are a lot of people sitting on the fence with MainLobby, and it's time to reel 'em in.

Dan

[Wysocki]

Hey, Mario! Anytime you can update the screensavers to cover a 4x3 screen (1024x768) would be greatly appreciated!