CP SKETCHER

[ojelela]

Hi

Is there any FREE software other the CP SKETCHER to layout my CP?
I found CP SKETCHER hard to see, too small images Don't know maybe something else.....??

Thanks

[brophog]

You can use mameroom's software. It's the software they use for people to set up a panel for them to make, but it works just fine for you to build your own as well.

[Tahnok]

Out of curiosity, what resolution are you using?

There are a few others (mameroom being one of the bigger ones), but I think most of them use similar setups.

[ojelela]

My resolution is 1080x1024 but i tried to lowered down to 800x600 but it is still hard to precisely place PB on layout. I guess there is no ZOOM feature in CP SKETCHER or I can't find it

[LJHalfbreed]

I usually run huge resolutions because I'm a weirdo, but I'm assuming your question/problem to mean that the cpsketcher work window is too small for you to use it adequately.

Well, changing your desktop resolution should help considerably (Which I've noted you've done)

The other thing you can do to get really accurate placement is to turn on the 'snap to grid' option, and then adjust the grid size. And don't forget that you don't need to make reeeeally tiny squares if you don't need to... For instance, I've set the grid out to 3 inches for some odd placements, and 10 inches for others.

As to an actual 'zoom in' function, I don't believe there is one on CPsketcher, but I hope those ideas help you find a work-around!

[Tahnok]

Correct, there is no zoom feature (this would be quite difficult). But there are ways to make placing parts easier. The already mentioned snap-to-grid is one way. Don't forget, if you make the grid very small you can turn off the grid display while still having the parts snap to it (it can be hard to see through the grid at smaller levels). You can also use the arrow keys to make small adjustments to the last part you clicked on. Or, if you know where you want it to go, you can right-click on the part and set the coordinates manually.

The program does not run correctly at 800*600, you can't see the entire window. Personally, I run it at 1024*768. But if you run everything else at 1080*1024, I don't see why you would be having problems. I guess it is just a matter of personal preference.

[ojelela]

Thanks, my problem was I had CP artwork already printed and I had to layout my PB to match it. It had to be dead on. I end up using Adobe Elements 4 and layout my PB and trackball so I can give dimensions to toolmaker in my company to drill lexan for them. By the way, he did real nice job.

All I can do now is wait for Andy from Ultimarc to send me Mag-stiks plus and MiniPac and then down to bussnies.....