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+ README.TXT FOR LaTeX Launcher Ver: 1.4.1
+ 12/95
+ by Gregory Gutt
+
+
+I. Description of LaTeX Launcher
+II. How to install and configure LaTeX Launcher
+III. Tips on using LaTeX Launcher
+IV. Good complementary software available on the Internet
+V. License/Copying/Distributing
+VI. Disclaimer
+VII. Revision changes
+
+
+**************************************************************************
+* I. Description of LaTeX Launcher *
+**************************************************************************
+
+
+LaTeX Launcher is a simple configurable shell utility to integrate and
+"Launch" programs from various sources. It is designed to work within
+Windows 3.1 or Windows 95 (it has been tested with both). Although it can
+launch almost any type of program (DOS or Windows), it has few features
+that are specialized for the LaTeX user.
+
+There are a total of 18 user configurable buttons that can be customized
+by editing a simple text file (lalaunch.cfg). In addition there
+are several variables that can be passed to other programs. The variables
+include things like: file names, paths, and page numbers. The basic idea is
+to give an integrated "feel" to a LaTeX session. Use your favorite editor,
+LaTeX compiler, drawing programs etc.
+
+There are several programs like this available for DOS or OS-2. However
+I am not aware of anything quite like this for Windows. (This may
+simply be ignorance on my part).
+
+This program is shareware (see section V). However, I promise there are
+no hidden `doomsday' clocks or nag screens in the program. In other
+words, if you don't register the program it will continue to function
+normally; although your conscience may bother you.
+
+
+**************************************************************************
+* II(a). Installing LaTeX Launcher *
+**************************************************************************
+
+
+
+There are a total of 4 files distributed with LaTeX Launcher. The
+first 3 are required for the program to run properly.
+
+ 1. lalaunch.exe Main executable program
+ 2. lalaunch.cfg Configuration text file
+ 3. vbrun300.dll Needed for visual basic 3.0 programs
+ 4. readme.txt This file (not needed to run)
+
+All these files should be distributed together.
+
+**************************************************************************
+* Some FTP Sites do not allow for file 3 to be included in the package. *
+* If your zip package does not include file 3. Then you must download *
+* it separately. This file is available from almost any ftp site. *
+* Typically the file is called: vbrun300.zip *
+**************************************************************************
+
+To install, create a directory for LaTeX Launcher (example: c:\lalaunch).
+Copy files 1,2 and 4 to this directory. File 3 should go in the
+(\windows\system) directory. There is a pretty good chance that this
+file is already there. If it is there, check the file dates and
+keep the most recent release. (If your feeling lazy, you can just
+copy file 3 to the same directory as files 1,2 and 4.)
+
+Finally, add LaTeX Launcher to your windows environment.
+
+Windows 3.1:
+ Select an appropriate Windows group by clicking on it within
+ the program manager. Under the "File" menu in the program manager
+ select "New". Pick "Program Item". Then fill in the blanks.
+ (Here, I am using my example directory, you should use the directory
+ path that you created above.)
+
+ Description: LaTeX Launcher
+ Command Line: c:\lalaunch\lalaunch.exe
+ Working Directory: c:\lalaunch
+
+ If you did everything correctly you should see a new icon (looks
+ like a sling shot) appear within the selected group. Double clicking
+ this icon should activate the program.
+
+Windows 95:
+ Go To the Start Button.
+ select settings
+ select taskbar
+ select start menu programs
+ select advanced
+
+ you should see a graphical tree of your startup programs.
+ leave this hanging for a minute.
+
+ Run the windows "Explore" program (Start button -> Programs -> Explore).
+ Find the directory you created above and then find the sling shot
+ icon (or lalaunch.exe). Drag and drop the icon from explorer into the
+ tree of your startup programs. For example drop it into the folder
+ labeled "Programs". Then exit out of both programs (taskbar and
+ explorer). Next check and see if it worked by going back to the start
+ button and select programs. The new icon should be visible
+ (in the appropriate branch) of the startup/program tree.
+
+ You may also choose to drag and drop the sling shot icon onto your
+ desktop. In this case it will be on the desktop all the time.
+
+
+**************************************************************************
+* II(b). Configuring LaTeX Launcher *
+**************************************************************************
+
+
+Configuring LaTeX Launcher is achieved by editing lalaunch.cfg . You
+can either use your favorite editor or you can do this from within
+LaTeX Launcher by pressing the "Config LL" button (this simply Launches
+the Windows notepad *if it is where I expected it to be* . (If the
+Config LL Button doesn't work... don't panic, I am probably assuming an
+incorrect path for your editor. (Just run your editor manually and make sure
+you fix up the information on Button 18).
+
+If you change the config file while LaTeX Launcher is running, save
+the file and push the reset button. This closes down the program
+and restarts it from scratch (with the revised config information).
+
+Syntax:
+ The "*" at the beginning of a line implies a comment. The rest of the
+ line is ignored.
+ The "|" Symbol must be used at the end of any valid entry. It means
+ end of line. Anything after this symbol is ignored.
+ Blank lines are ignored.
+ The "+" Symbol is removed at run time. It simply helps you format
+ your commands more nicely. So, A+B looks like AB at run time.
+ Do not insert stray blank spaces in your entries, this will mess up
+ the parsing. Use blanks where they are required, but nowhere else.
+ Variables names are case sensitive. (Tpath does not equal TPath).
+
+Within lalaunch.cfg there are a number of parameters which are
+set in the following manner: parameter=setting| As an example:
+
+work=c:\emtex\work|
+
+List of configurable parameters:
+
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------
+unset Name of a program that executes on exit from LaTeX
+ Launcher. Typically a simple batch file.
+bibtexdir Directory to start looking for .bib files.
+msdos Executes when the MS DOS button is pushed. Typically
+ \windows\dosprmpt.pif (windows baseline DOS prompt)
+work Directory to start looking for .tex files
+junkx (x=0-9) Ten wild cards that get deleted when the Del Junk button
+ is pressed. Example: junk0=*.bak|
+ Be careful here. Anything with these wild cards
+ that is in the selected .tex path (see TPath below)
+ is deleted.
+pos Location of the top left corner of the LaTeX Launcher
+ window. %(from left), %(from top). Valid numbers
+ are between 0-100 (decimal point is ok).
+ Example: pos=9.5,3|
+
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+
+Variable that can be used within parameter settings:
+
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------
+TPath Path selected at run time for the current (.tex) file
+TFile Selected at run time. TFile just has the base 8 char
+ name, no extension.
+TExtn Extension for the above file (for those that don't
+ use the standard .tex convention)
+BPath Path for selected .bib file
+BFile Selected .bib file (no extension)
+BExtn Extension for above (for those that don't use the
+ standard .bib convention)
+PStart Starting page number (from main screen)
+PStop Stopping page number (from main screen)
+SPath Path the LaTeX Launcher was started from
+LLvarX User defined variables (X=0-9)
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+
+Configuring Buttons:
+
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------
+There are 18 configurable buttons. All are configured using the
+same method.
+
+Example:
+
+but1=Edit TeX| Text displayed on the button at run time.
+ Typically about 10 characters can be displayed.
+ Longer names will just be cut off.
+dir1=\junk| Changes to this directory before execution
+ this can be blank (no dir change: dir1=| )
+ The following configures button 1 to edit
+ the selected .tex file using the Windows
+ notepad.exe editor.
+
+
+cmd1=c:\windows\notepad.exe TPath+\+TFile+.tex|
+
+Note the added "\" character between TPath and TFile.
+
+If you want to leave a button open, just leave the parameters blank.
+
+but2=| Empty
+dir2=|
+cmd2=|
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+To execute complicated or multiple commands, the best thing to do is write
+your own small batch file and run the batch using LaTeX Launcher.
+Example (Run the EmTeX version of the LaTeX compiler):
+
+but3=EmTeX|
+dir3=TPath|
+cmd3=c:\emtex\lalatex.bat TFile|
+
+The file lalatex.bat might look like this:
+
+ echo off
+ call \emtex\set-tex.bat
+ c:\emtex\compiler\tex386.exe -mt8000 -s &latex2e %1 %2 %3 %4 %5 %6
+
+Thus we have written a batch file that runs another batch file first
+(set-tex.bat) then compiles TFile.
+
+
+**************************************************************************
+* III. Tips and Tricks *
+**************************************************************************
+
+
+Question- I want to use the "+" or "|" characters within a command, but
+ this messes up the parsing of LaTeX Launcher.
+
+Answer- Write a batch file. Put these characters in the batch file.
+ Run the batch file from LaTeX Launcher.
+
+Question- How do I hook up a windows help file to a button?
+
+Answer- cmd1=c:\windows\winhelp.exe c:\hlpfile.hlp|
+
+Question- I don't have the original TEX file, but I want to view a DVI
+ file without an error message.
+
+Answer- Use the TeX File dialog box. Change the extension to DVI and
+ select your DVI file. Now, TFile has the correct name of your
+ DVI file, and the rest should be easy. Obviously don't try to
+ run the latex compiler.
+
+Question- I am using EmTeX. Each time I Launch a new DOS application
+ it forgets all the EmTeX Environment variables.
+
+Answer- Look at the example above (section II). Call set-tex.bat
+ to reset the environment before you run your other commands.
+ Or you can configure your environment in the autoexec.bat
+ at startup.
+
+Question- What is a good thing to do with the unset parameter?
+
+Answer- Some programs, such as set-tex.bat actually reconfigure
+ your DOS environment. In general this is no big deal, since
+ Windows will forget any changes to the DOS environment as soon
+ as the DOS window is closed. However there are a few
+ exceptions. The subst command can reconfigure your drive
+ lettering scheme permanently. A good use for unset is a
+ batch file that undoes the "mess" from set-tex.bat.
+
+ Example: unset.bat
+
+ subst r: /d
+ subst s: /d
+
+ This batch file deletes the two substituted drives r: and s:
+
+Question- I am using Windows 3.1 and I want more control over the DOS
+ Window when I run DOS programs.
+
+Answer- Don't run the program directly. Instead use the Windows PIF
+ editor and configure a PIF file to your needs. Have the .pif
+ file call your program. The PIF file allows you to configure
+ a few key parameters such as: window size, memory allocation,
+ background execution, and close on exit.
+
+ In general these are good defaults:
+ Run in windowed mode
+ Close on exit
+ Allow background operation
+ Leave the memory stuff as is (Windows defaults)
+
+ A Quick and dirty way to implement this involves editing
+ the PIF default file (\windows\_default.pif).
+ However, this is not desirable unless you are happy
+ with the new settings for all your Windows calls to DOS.
+
+ In Windows 95 configuring the DOS PIF is much more transparent.
+ Each time you run a DOS program for the first time. You can
+ configure the PIF parameters and Windows will remember your
+ settings.
+
+Question: Can you make EmTeX work as a real Windows program instead of
+ running from a DOS window?
+
+Answer: Yes, you need a program called RSXWIN.EXE (available on the
+ internet). The LaTeX Launcher command looks like this-
+
+ dir2=TPath|
+ * cmd2=c:\emtex\rsxwin.exe -X
+ * c:\emtex\compiler\tex386.exe -mt8000 -s &latex2e TFile|
+
+ The two lines with the * should be on one line. Your
+ directory structure may very. Also RSXWIN takes some setup
+ of its own.
+
+Question: I am using program x and it can't find file y when I call it
+ from your program.
+
+Answer: Many LaTeX programs require very very careful placement
+ of files in specific directories. Additionally, DOS Environment
+ variables need to be set correctly (see example above with
+ set-tex.bat.
+
+ If you want to set your environment permanently (and have it
+ available from DOS and Windows) consider adding all the
+ relevant "set" commands to your autoexec.bat file.
+
+
+**************************************************************************
+* IV. Good Software on the Net *
+**************************************************************************
+
+Here are a few excellent programs on the Internet that can be downloaded
+via FTP. They all are great additions to any Windows/LaTeX system.
+
+**************************************************************************
+** I am not affiliated with any of these people or there software. Use **
+** this software under the conditions that are specified within each **
+** respective package! Use at your own risk! **
+**************************************************************************
+
+Available through: ftp.shsu.edu tex-archive\systems\msdos\4alltex
+
+Emtex LaTeX package created in Germany, A must!
+RSXWIN Allows EmTeX to work as a true windows program
+ instead of running under a DOS Window (runs faster
+ and uses less memory)
+DVIPS Converts DVI files to Post Script (good for including
+ Pictures). **Windows Version Available**
+PSFIG Good way to include PS figures in your documents
+Ghost Script Allows you to view and print PS files to non PS devices
+ like your screen or an HP LaserJet Series II printer.
+ ** Windows Version Available **
+Am-Spell LaTeX compatible spelling program. Won't get hung up
+ on all your LaTeX commands.
+DVIWIN Excellent DVI previewer for Windows.
+
+
+Available through: ftp.cica.indiana.edu
+
+PFE A great editor for Windows
+GS26WGUI A user friendly interface for Windows Ghost Script
+PageDraw Good drawing program that works with PS files
+LaTeX2e.hlp Windows Help file for Latex, complete with examples.
+ This is great! Easy to hook into LaTeX Launcher
+
+**************************************************************************
+* V. License/Copying/Distributing *
+**************************************************************************
+
+LaTeX Launcher is shareware. If you continue to use this program for
+more than 30 days you are legally obligated to register.
+
+Registration, send $20 to:
+
+ Gregory Gutt
+ 2250 Monreoe St. #311
+ Santa Clara, CA 95050
+
+U.S. Currency please. Make checks payable to Gregory Gutt.
+
+When you register please include:
+
+ A check for $20
+ Your name (and company name if appropriate)
+ Address
+ e-mail address
+
+I will send a confirmation that you are a registered user. Registered
+users will be automatically notified (via e-mail) of updates and bugs.
+By registering for any version of LaTeX Launcher you will automatically
+be registered (free of charge) for any future versions.
+
+e-mail comments and questions to:
+
+ greg@relgyro.stanford.edu
+
+You may copy and distribute this program all you like. In fact, PLEASE
+copy and distribute. All ORIGINAL versions of the files below MUST
+be distributed together:
+
+ lalaunch.exe
+ lalaunch.cfg
+ * vbrun300.dll
+ readme.txt
+
+If your distribution did not come with vbrun300.dll, it is ok to
+leave this out. However, since it is needed for the program to run,
+I prefer that this file be included whenever possible.
+
+**************************************************************************
+* VI. Disclaimer *
+**************************************************************************
+
+
+I really tried to make this program bug free. However, one can never
+be sure. If this program destroys your files, hard disk, computer,
+or your mind, I am not responsible. The program comes as is with
+no expressed or implied warranty. If you do not except this disclaimer
+than do not use the software.
+
+**************************************************************************
+* Revisions *
+**************************************************************************
+
+Ver 1.0-1.1 No releases to the public.
+Ver 1.2 First public release.
+Ver 1.3 Added exit button. Allows for double click to select
+ files.
+Ver 1.3.1 Fixed problem with changing paths when path was on a
+ drive other than that of LaTeX Launcher (ie. TPath).
+ Also program no longer quits when a drive is not ready.
+Ver 1.4 Fixed minor bug with the reset button.
+ Added pos command which allows for user selectable window
+ placement on the screen.
+ Allowed for user selectable extensions in the file
+ dialog box (TExtn, BExtn).
+ Made buttons work more logically when selected with
+ keyboard rather than with the mouse.
+ Allowed for user variables in the config file.
+Ver 1.4.1 Fixed bug with file selection involving files with
+ less than 3 characters in their extension.
+
+**************************************************************************
+* Thanks! *
+**************************************************************************
+
+
+Thank You, for registering and distributing LaTeX Launcher! I hope this
+program is useful for you.
+
+Gregory Gutt