EXT MFD re-paint?

[KCB]

Guys using the ext MFD's on other monitors, wanted to replace the stock white frame and buttons, got half way there by rebuilding Windows themes but the big white buttons remain and i cannot seem to track down the source of the buttons, any pointers? thanks

 

[Urwumpe]

Guys using the ext MFD's on other monitors, wanted to replace the stock white frame and buttons, got half way there by rebuilding Windows themes but the big white buttons remain and i cannot seem to track down the source of the buttons, any pointers? thanks

Well, its essentially a classic windows dialog, using functions existing since Windows 3.1. So, yes, you can.

With a big "but": You might end up needing to create a special window class for the buttons to get the intended result.

I did not do that kind of low-level work for about 15 years now, so please excuse me, I need to.... erm.... replace the blinker fluid in my car. I can explain the topic when I finished that task.

Of course, you could also try an alternative: Implement the dialog with the newer WPF framework using C++ with managed code extension. I never did that. But I know it works and could also allow you to get there.

 

[KCB]

wow, i put that through Google translator and it came out exactly the same...Google must be broken. I feel a deep coffee dive and a late night coming. Thanks

 

[Urwumpe]

That page might be a help for the first way:

https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/ms633574(v=vs.85).aspx

But still, its a rather complicated way. A "StyledExtMFD" might be a cool project, but its hard to teach Windows such tricks (Like making XAML use simple CSS like JavaFX can. There is a library now for C# that does what the Java world already has for some years)

 

[KCB]

Im not a coder so this is getting away from me in a hurry, how about the text on these buttons can that be edited in any way? for example using text in programs like photoshop a 'stroke' can be added. Is it possible to add effects like these as a work around?

Im asking as we have built a simpit for a classroom in Mongolia and it was designed as a dual use aerospace simpit using FSX and Orbiter. Just difficult to get the best look using Orbiter so looking for options. Thanks.

[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jt9cYTK-7hQ&t=186s"]VPACC First Cockpit Classroom Sim Mongolia - YouTube[/ame]

 

[Urwumpe]

Im not a coder so this is getting away from me in a hurry, how about the text on these buttons can that be edited in any way? for example using text in programs like photoshop a 'stroke' can be added. Is it possible to add effects like these as a work around?

Well bad news then: Without being a coder, you will have a terrible time getting this modded.

For example: There is a file called "ExtMFD.rc" that you can take a look at with a resource editor. It would allow you to modify the looks of the button a tiny bit.

Bad news: It was made during the VC 2008 era and is based on Microsoft Foundation Classes, which means it won't compile on newer Visual Studio versions without fixing the references.

 

[Notebook]

To KCB:

Sorry, can't help with your graphic problem, however. can you give any information on your project please?
Looks very interesting.

N.

 

[KCB]

Notebook,
We are looking at using a full spectrum aerospace experience, an entertainment approach, to try stimulate interest, inspire and nurture science literacy. Looking at developing highly immersive tactile environments, long term narratives and experience based self organized learning opportunities. Using entertainment and aerospace experiences as capture strategies for the near future. Interested how these approaches can dovetail with formal education on the backend. Classroom cockpits are not our primary mission, we are interested in much more immersive complex setups, but they are learning grounds. If you are interested I can always send you more information.