[Updated: Nov 14] M2D App Launcher (Added New Features: See Video Presentation)

[greatbal]

14 Nov 2008 Update: build 11142008 attached. Added Copy/Move Feature (Tap-and-Hold and Drag-and-Drop feature). See Change log on post#2 for more details.

Watch Video presentation : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXOeJ4-zDW4

NOTE: Please download the latest build 11142008 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=129767&d=1226654973) at this time. I'm just keeping the older versions (see attachments) for history purposes only.

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

06 Nov 2008 Update: build 11062008 attached. Change log on post#2.

---------------------------------
Application launcher that LOOKS and FEELS like M2D!

Got some free time so I decided to write an application to replace the M2D's "All Programs" application launcher. Basically, this replaces the folderview.exe in your \Windows directory.

NOTE: Hence, this would only work if you have M2D running on your device!

NOTE: I implemented a finger scroll algorithm. So, if you are running FTouchflo or FTouchSL, please include folderview.exe in the exemptions list.


Features:

1) Interface is very similar to M2D. It uses the graphics of your current M2D theme. If you change your theme, you can exit the app launcher and re-launch in order to effect the changes.

2) Navigation is very much similar to M2D. You can scroll up and down the list or drag-scroll the tab icon bar. The icons in the tab bar represents the folders of your Start Menu; the "Main" category represents links in the root of Programs folder. (Limitation: It only reads the folders under \Windows\Start Menu\Programs. Sub-folders are ignored.) You can alternatively use the D-Pad: Up and Down moves up and down the items; while, Left and Right moves through the folders.

3) It uses you current custom folder icons (icons.lnk). If you want to customize your folder icons, just do a search on how to do it. It has been discussed several times in the past. In order to customize the "Main" category (or Root of Start Menu\Programs), just drop an icon.lnk on your \Windows\Start Menu\Programs\ folder.

4) Wherever/whenever possible, I wrote the code to be compatible with any screen resolution/orientation. But, I tested this only on my device (Hermes, QVGA device). Feedbacks are appreciated.

Screenshots:

Using Diamond M2D Skin:
http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/4784/33866206ed5.png http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/4754/16147217ch3.png

Using Deault M2D Skin:
http://img366.imageshack.us/img366/2189/42690323rj1.png http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/2051/64844714df4.png



How to install:

1) Copy the attached cab file.
2) IMPORTANT: Make sure folderview.exe is not running on your device. You can use a good task manager to close/kill folderview.exe (or install attached cab file right after a softreset.); otherwise, installation will fail.
3) Copy the cab file to your device and execute to install.
4) Requires netcf 2.0 or higher.

NOTE #1: I implemented a finger scroll algorithm. So, if you are running FTouchflo or FTouchSL, please include folderview.exe in the exemptions list.

NOTE #2: Build 11042008 doesn't have file checking (will fix that soon). SO, if your M2D graphics files are not in the root of \Windows folder, this will crash. Make sure the graphics files needed by this app are in \Windows folder:

1) "hh_fw_tabbtn.png"
2) "hh_fw_tabbtn_mask.png"
3) "hh_fw_background.png"
4) "hh_fw_background.png"
5) "hh_fw_title.png"
6) "hh_fw_tab_bg_fill.png"
7) "HH_SETTINGS_FOCUSEDBAR.bmp"
8) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR.bmp"
9) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR_MASK.bmp"


NOTE #3: Before installing, try to use the built-in File Explorer (or Resco Explorer, etc.) and navigate to your \Windows directory. If it takes you a long time loading the \Windows folder as in more than 10 seconds (!), then this application is "unusable" to you as you may experince noticeable lags as it accesses your \Windows folder often. Based on experience, M2D cooked in to the rom is a lot lot faster than installing it via cab.



Enjoy!

[greatbal]

Change log:


Build 11142008:
1) New feature: Copy and Move links between folders. Please see video presentation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXOeJ4-zDW4

NOTE: Tap-and-hold on a link and drag-and-drop to COPY or MOVE to a specific folder. Default is "MOVE TO" but you can drag the icon to "COPY TO" if you are copying the link to a folder.

2) Faster and smoother scrolling.

3) Same as build 11142008, your M2D graphics files should be in \Windows folder. Otherwise, it will crash.


Build 11062008:
1) Fixed some bugs.
2) Faster and smoother scrolling.
3) Same as build 11042008, your M2D graphics files should be in \Windows folder. Otherwise, it will crash.


Build 11042008:
1) build 11042008 is the initial release. So I expect some bugs. Please post feedbacks. Thanks.

[da_mayhem]

Excellent! Great job pre! Donation coming...:D

[kidnamedAlbert]

AMAZING work.
thank you!

[herg62123]

holy shit.....thanks greatbal

me likie, me likie

[greatbal]

Excellent! Great job pre! Donation coming...:D

Thanks for the beer! :p

[mpenguin14]

this looks really nice, I will be trying it out later today, thanks for developing this

[iron1]

idol! great job! go pinoy!

[hanackin]

Wahoo!!!

good job man as usual!!!! :D:D:D

[met3ora]

WOW that looks nice! Will test soon!

[greatbal]

this looks really nice, I will be trying it out later today, thanks for developing this

thanks! Please post some feedbacks soon. :)

[theme freak]

Like usuall..Awesome works..keep it up :D

[greatbal]

holy shit.....thanks greatbal

me likie, me likie

Thanks! I really appreciate it, especially coming from the "father" of M2D on all devices! :)

[caballero600]

Its really good app launcher!!

I feel slow in the scrolling... but good work!

[wmvfan]

Doesn´t work on my blueangel (sundreams WM 6.1):(
i just get the error "an unexpected error has occured in folderview.exe.....usw"


will i need netcf 3.5 for it ?

[greatbal]

Its really good app launcher!!

I feel slow in the scrolling... but good work!

That's because of the bitmap mask on the tab bar. Without the mask, scrolling would have been a lot lot faster. I'm using .netcf and I can't find a good class to handle bitmap masks. so i implemented it using lockbits and manipulated the pixels one-by-one. Not an elegant way of doing it, but it works well.

[greatbal]

Doesn´t work on my blueangel (sundreams WM 6.1):(
i just get the error "an unexpected error has occured in folderview.exe.....usw"


will i need netcf 3.5 for it ?

netcf version 2.0 or higher is required.

[wildwillis]

this looks great. Can't try it yet because I'm trying out m3d, which made of think that this would also be great if you could run it as a stand alone app-launcher (a program that could be run outside of m2d).

I've been looking for an app launcher like this that simply follows the folder structure of my programs folder. It would be great if we could have it as a program and therefore run it from a hw button. Thanks and great job!

[Harry8521]

Looks cool, wonder if anyone has a Japanese Rom

[mysterd]

netcf version 2.0 or higher is required.

Hi

I've got the same problem.
Looking into the Exception, I noticed it's actually a "FileNotFound" Exception...
I've got .NET CF 3.5 up and running on my device (HTC Prophet G4).

Is there any additional file to install beside the cab ?

Thanks in advance for your help

Cheers

[El Massman]

got the same file not found error here. looks awesome though. good work. would it be possible to do the same with the settings menu?

[jolas]

Is there any possibility to make an other build work with 'ThrottleLauncher 0.9.5' or with 'TouchLaunch 0.0.4.7'?

[red_hanks]

galing! good job pre...let me try this one..

[greatbal]

Hi

I've got the same problem.
Looking into the Exception, I noticed it's actually a "FileNotFound" Exception...
I've got .NET CF 3.5 up and running on my device (HTC Prophet G4).

Is there any additional file to install beside the cab ?

Thanks in advance for your help

Cheers


No additional files to be installed aside form the cab which contains a single file: folderview.exe.

However, I didn't include in the code to check if all graphics to be used are present in your \Windows folder, as I tested this on the default M2D skin and the Diamond skin. What M2D theme are you using?

I'll include file checking in the next update. Thanks for the feedback.

[greatbal]

got the same file not found error here. looks awesome though. good work. would it be possible to do the same with the settings menu?

What M2D theme are you using? If there was a File Not Found exeption (which I didn't handle as I hope to use this on default M2D theme, or custom skins using thesame graphic files name locatedon the\Windows directory.)

I'll include File Checking on the next update, though...

[greatbal]

Is there any possibility to make an other build work with 'ThrottleLauncher 0.9.5' or with 'TouchLaunch 0.0.4.7'?

there was a request to make this as a stand-alone app which doesn't depend on M2D. I'll try to find time to do that and use a default skin and you can just customize it with your own graphics.

[jolas]

Thanks!!!
It would be very nice to have it as a stand alone application:)

[wapvirus]

Can this app be skinned as i love the app but it don't match my theme ???

[Kloc]

Installed it and nothing happened lol.

[toniolol]

Hi, to make it stand alone you have just to exact the cab and rename it ! (and have M2D....)
Works perfect on my P3600.
Just some words :
#1 it takes "big" time to refresh each tab but I think it's cause my ROM is not very quick in Windows directory...
#2 the big icons when you slide is pixelised but I don't know how you can fix it cause you don't have the image in big size, maybe with a configurator allowing to use own images
#3 slide is not very quick as M2D but you explain why !

You're application is amazing !!!! I love it !

Ps : if you plan to "customize" it, maybe it would be cool to choose the place instead of an alphabetical place or to choose to top the most using app.

(Sorry for my english....)

[greatbal]

Can this app be skinned as i love the app but it don't match my theme ???

it uses your current M2D theme graphics. I mentioned it on the "Features" in post#1. If you change your M2D theme, it correspondingly change to the new theme (after re-launch).So, using that concept, there's no need for skinning of this application.It works hand-in-hand with M2D.

[greatbal]

Hi, to make it stand alone you have just to exact the cab and rename it ! (and have M2D....)
Works perfect on my P3600.
Just some words :
#1 it takes "big" time to refresh each tab but I think it's cause my ROM is not very quick in Windows directory...

You're application is amazing !!!! I love it !

Ps : if you plan to "customize" it, maybe it would be cool to choose the place instead of an alphabetical place or to choose to top the most using app.

(Sorry for my english....)

Thanks. Re time to load icons, on my system (Hermes with cooked WM6.1 rom), it takes just a fraction of a second. And initial launch takes a couple of seconds (courtesy of netcf).

Oh, by the way, my M2D is cooked into the rom, that's probable why reading files in \Windows folder is fast.

I opted not to "remember" most used applications as I prefer alphabetical listing. But I may consider that as an option in the future.

[Moe5508]

Great looking app, greatbal...testing and wil post some feedback shortly! Thanks for your work.

[Syd159]

Thanks for this Greatbal. Installed it this afternoon and loved it right away. :)

[Fontanini]

Installed it and nothing happened lol.

That precisly my experience :(
am i doing something wrong?

[oltp]

I'm almost speechless, this gives such a nicely M2D integrated feeling. Besides the already mentioned slow scrolling, probably due to my poor Hermes capabilities, I notice that the upscaled icons are a bit rough. But I understand that's part of the game with the reuse of the default icon dll which has other very positive effects.

So I'm very pleased with you initial release.

Keep up this good work, M

[mikegadd]

Goto the all programs on the program tab hit all programs and you will see it come to life

[COWHEAD]

Looks and works great, thank you.

[secoseco]

Hi

I get error when trying All Programs

An unexpected error has occurred in folderview.exe.
Select Quit and then restart this program, or select Details for more information.

folderview.exe
Exception

at Microsoft.AGL.Common.MISC.HandleAr(PAL_ERROR ar)
at System.Drawing.Bitmap._InitFromMemoryStream(Memory Stream mstream)
at System.Drawing.Bitmap..ctor(String filename)
at folderview.Form1..ctor()
at System.Reflection.RuntimeConstructorInfo.InternalI nvoke(RuntimeConstructorInfo rtci, BindingFlags invokeAttr, Binder binder, Object parameters, CultureInfo culture, Boolean isBinderDefault, Assembly caller, Boolean verifyAccess, StackCrawlMark& stackMark)
at System.Reflection.RuntimeConstructorInfo.Invoke(Bi ndingFlags invokeAttr, Binder binder, Object[] parameters, CultureInfo culture)
at System.Reflection.ConstructorInfo.Invoke(Object[] parameters)
at System.Activator.CreateInstance(Type type, Boolean nonPublic)
at folderview.My.MyProject.MyForms.Create__Instance__[T](Form1 Instance)
at folderview.My.MyProject.MyForms.get_Form1()
at folderview.Form1.Main()

tested in Cruise M-Amin Final rom NETCF 3.5

thx

[kidnamedAlbert]

okay i LOVE this launcher.
but one thing. it is REALLY laggy on my phone.
just tapping onto a different tab is laggy.

[greatbal]

okay i LOVE this launcher.
but one thing. it is REALLY laggy on my phone.
just tapping onto a different tab is laggy.


I Noticed you have an HTC HErald (200MHz cpu). if you don't have Manila2D cooked-in to the rom, this may be laggy indeed. Try to use the built-in file explorer or Resco Explorer and go to your \Windows folder. If it takes you more than 10 seconds to access it using file explorer, then you may not be able to use this application properly as it accesses files from your \Windows directory.

[greatbal]

Installed it and nothing happened lol.

Please clarify, "nothing happened".

1) Did the cab install successfully?
2) Did you go to your Manila2D's Programs tab and pressed the left-softkey "All Programs"?

[greatbal]

Hi

I get error when trying All Programs

An unexpected error has occurred in folderview.exe.
Select Quit and then restart this program, or select Details for more information.

folderview.exe
Exception

at Microsoft.AGL.Common.MISC.HandleAr(PAL_ERROR ar)
at System.Drawing.Bitmap._InitFromMemoryStream(Memory Stream mstream)
at System.Drawing.Bitmap..ctor(String filename)
at folderview.Form1..ctor()
at System.Reflection.RuntimeConstructorInfo.InternalI nvoke(RuntimeConstructorInfo rtci, BindingFlags invokeAttr, Binder binder, Object parameters, CultureInfo culture, Boolean isBinderDefault, Assembly caller, Boolean verifyAccess, StackCrawlMark& stackMark)
at System.Reflection.RuntimeConstructorInfo.Invoke(Bi ndingFlags invokeAttr, Binder binder, Object[] parameters, CultureInfo culture)
at System.Reflection.ConstructorInfo.Invoke(Object[] parameters)
at System.Activator.CreateInstance(Type type, Boolean nonPublic)
at folderview.My.MyProject.MyForms.Create__Instance__[T](Form1 Instance)
at folderview.My.MyProject.MyForms.get_Form1()
at folderview.Form1.Main()

tested in Cruise M-Amin Final rom NETCF 3.5

thx

Try to use the Deault Blue M2D Theme if this also causes the same unhandled exception. I'm rewriting the app to include file checking if all needed files are in the \Windows Folder. At the moment, this would not work if your graphics files are not in the root of \Windows folder.

[El Massman]

just using the standard m2d theme from rev 19 i think.

[Corpsegrinder]

Kick ass! Nice work. Works well on my Tilt. So far so good.

[kidnamedAlbert]

I Noticed you have an HTC HErald (200MHz cpu). if you don't have Manila2D cooked-in to the rom, this may be laggy indeed. Try to use the built-in file explorer or Resco Explorer and go to your \Windows folder. If it takes you more than 10 seconds to access it using file explorer, then you may not be able to use this application properly as it accesses files from your \Windows directory.
oh i see.
nah its cooked in.
but like you said.
its only 200mhz.
SLOW ASS phone.
windows folder takes up to 30 seconds to load.
to start up my phone it takes like 5 minutes.

[greatbal]

oh i see.
nah its cooked in.
but like you said.
its only 200mhz.
SLOW ASS phone.
windows folder takes up to 30 seconds to load.
to start up my phone it takes like 5 minutes.

Whooa! that slow, huh? Maybe you should try other roms. Taking 30 seconds for \Windows folder to load and 5 minutes to boot is a pain. In my system, Hermes with M2D cooked into the rom, \Windows folder takes around 2 seconds to load and boot-up time takes a little over a minute.

[c_shekhar]

@Greatbal
Avery nice looking application and very small size.
One suggetion:--
Make it skinnable so that the folder icons can be skinnable.The reason for my saying so is, that the folder icons this prog is using, are the enlarged form of the 16x16 icons inside the resources dll of the microsoft. So they dont look so good when enlarged(Expanded).

...c_shekhar

[mr.jaguar]

sweet app. this was one of the things I had been looking for.. thanks and awesome job.

[motisu]

Try to use the Deault Blue M2D Theme if this also causes the same unhandled exception. I'm rewriting the app to include file checking if all needed files are in the \Windows Folder. At the moment, this would not work if your graphics files are not in the root of \Windows folder.

That explains why we get the missing files. I'll bet that everyone getting the missing files error is trying to install with 19 and not 20. 19 has most of its graphics in \windows\manilagfx and not in \windows.

Greatbal, could you give us a list of exactly which graphics we need to have in \windows? If its not too many, I'll copy them over to \windows. Alternatively, maybe you could look for them in \windows, and if they are not there, search again in the manilagfx subdirectory. or maybe even have a setting for where to search for the graphics.

[ebautista]

That explains why we get the missing files. I'll bet that everyone getting the missing files error is trying to install with 19 and not 20. 19 has most of its graphics in \windows\manilagfx and not in \windows.

Greatbal, could you give us a list of exactly which graphics we need to have in \windows? If its not too many, I'll copy them over to \windows. Alternatively, maybe you could look for them in \windows, and if they are not there, search again in the manilagfx subdirectory. or maybe even have a setting for where to search for the graphics.


I agree with your suggestion.
:cool:

[shahdave]

Hi, first of all thanks for the good work. I am using FlyRom 5.0 and installed NetCf 2.0 after than installed greatbal cab successfully, it asked me to restart which I did but I do not see any change, all I see under remove programs that it shows, but nowhere else. Can you please help?

[Fontanini]

Please clarify, "nothing happened".

1) Did the cab install successfully?
2) Did you go to your Manila2D's Programs tab and pressed the left-softkey "All Programs"?

sorry for my stupidness, i was looking @ the wrong place.
It indeed looks great!
But as everyone else, it's not really fast :(
I guess this will be changed in further releases:)

[eric2k]

NOTE #1: I implemented a finger scroll algorithm. So, if you are running FTouchflo or FTouchSL, please include folderview.exe in the exemptions list.

Explain that a bit more?

Also, yeah like others mentioned the scroll will need work it does not feel right yet. Other then that this app is amazing. THANK YOU :)

[edge2861]

Works for me...

Thnx Greatbal!!!:)

[greatbal]

That explains why we get the missing files. I'll bet that everyone getting the missing files error is trying to install with 19 and not 20. 19 has most of its graphics in \windows\manilagfx and not in \windows.

Greatbal, could you give us a list of exactly which graphics we need to have in \windows? If its not too many, I'll copy them over to \windows. Alternatively, maybe you could look for them in \windows, and if they are not there, search again in the manilagfx subdirectory. or maybe even have a setting for where to search for the graphics.


Ok. Here are the graphics files needed by this app, which should be in \Windows folder:

1) "\Windows\hh_fw_tabbtn.png"
2) "\Windows\hh_fw_tabbtn_mask.png"
3) "\Windows\hh_fw_background.png"
4) "\Windows\hh_fw_background.png"
5) "\Windows\hh_fw_title.png"
6) "\Windows\hh_fw_tab_bg_fill.png"
7) "\Windows\HH_SETTINGS_FOCUSEDBAR.bmp"
8) "\Windows\HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR.bmp"
9) "\Windows\HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR_MASK.bmp"

[greatbal]

NOTE #1: I implemented a finger scroll algorithm. So, if you are running FTouchflo or FTouchSL, please include folderview.exe in the exemptions list.

Explain that a bit more?

Also, yeah like others mentioned the scroll will need work it does not feel right yet. Other then that this app is amazing. THANK YOU :)



Example: (I'm using FTouchSL)

1) Run FTouchSL Settings (in Programs directory)
2) On the treeview list, navigate to "Exceptions"
3) Click on "Add program name..." button
4) On the running applications list, look for folderview.exe (if it's running)
or
5) Type folderview.exe in the textbox at the top with label "Program name:"
6) Click left softkey "Add"
7) Click "Done"

I'm not sure about the Settings/Config page of FTouchFlo, but I guessk it's pretty much similar. Both were written by efrost.

[lepsyfou]

great work, thank you very much my friend :D

[secoseco]

Try to use the Deault Blue M2D Theme if this also causes the same unhandled exception. I'm rewriting the app to include file checking if all needed files are in the \Windows Folder. At the moment, this would not work if your graphics files are not in the root of \Windows folder.

Hi greatbal

all ready I test it with original Blue M2D and all files in \Windows Folder and get the same error

thx

[bazzix]

Great work, i didn't test it yet but it looks promising.
why put all those graphics in \windows? that directory is already full of this kind of crap. This way the people who have issues with loading \windows in their file explorer will also be able to use this app.

[mysterd]

No additional files to be installed aside form the cab which contains a single file: folderview.exe.

However, I didn't include in the code to check if all graphics to be used are present in your \Windows folder, as I tested this on the default M2D skin and the Diamond skin. What M2D theme are you using?

I'll include file checking in the next update. Thanks for the feedback.

Hi again...

I'm just so stupid... I guess i didn't read the first post completely : I just don't have M2D on my phone... I thought the launcher just "looked like" M2D but didn't need it to run.

Thanks for your help and sorry for disturbing ;)

[motisu]

Ok. Here are the graphics files needed by this app, which should be in \Windows folder:

1) "\Windows\hh_fw_tabbtn.png"
2) "\Windows\hh_fw_tabbtn_mask.png"
3) "\Windows\hh_fw_background.png"
4) "\Windows\hh_fw_background.png"
5) "\Windows\hh_fw_title.png"
6) "\Windows\hh_fw_tab_bg_fill.png"
7) "\Windows\HH_SETTINGS_FOCUSEDBAR.bmp"
8) "\Windows\HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR.bmp"
9) "\Windows\HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR_MASK.bmp"

I copied the files from manilagfx to \windows and everthing works just fine.

nevertheless, is it possible to have some config options to define where the graphics are? I'm sure that other options will also eventually make their way into this launcher (exclude apps, subdirs, etc)

[aikman808]

Thanks for your hard work, this is AWESOME!!! :D

[joel2009]

great app :)

[nothin]

[sorry, mistake, delete plz..]

[greatbal]

Great work, i didn't test it yet but it looks promising.
why put all those graphics in \windows? that directory is already full of this kind of crap. This way the people who have issues with loading \windows in their file explorer will also be able to use this app.

i don't exactly place any filesi n the \Windows folder aside from the folderview.exe, where it should actually be. The application just looks for the graphics files in \Windows directory where originally the M2D graphics files should be. However, there's a version of M2D that places graphics files in some other folder. I'll consider that in the next update.

[greatbal]

new build 11062008 available on post #1.

see change log on post #2.

[randomelements]

Great stuff greatbal :)

Sometimes, the original folderview.exe seems to hang in the background preventing All Programs from working (I had that with the rom I've just cooked) but no such problems with this.

This is an awesome app - love it.

[hanackin]

NOTE #3: Before installing, try to use the built-in File Explorer (or Resco Explorer, etc.) and navigate to your \Windows directory. If it takes you a long time loading the \Windows folder as in more than 10 seconds (!), then this application is "unusable" to you as you may experience noticeable lags as it accesses your \Windows folder often.



I don"t know if it has been said yet but, personally I solved this issue about the long time loading the \windows folder by using the tool WMRegOptimizer - v0.1 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=433736) :D


It was taking about 10 seconds to load it before and know it takes only 2-3 seconds ;) and my windows is even faster ;)

enjoy!!!

Thanks again for this great app Greatball!!!!!!!! :D

[greatbal]

I don"t know if it has been said yet but, personally I solved this issue about the long time loading the \windows folder by using the tool WMRegOptimizer - v0.1 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=433736) :D


It was taking about 10 seconds to load it before and know it takes only 2-3 seconds ;) and my windows is even faster

enjoy!!!

Thanks again for this great app Greatball!!!!!!!! :D

hey thanks for pointing this one. I totally missed that thread. where have I been! :p

[secoseco]

Hi

I get error when trying All Programs

An unexpected error has occurred in folderview.exe.
Select Quit and then restart this program, or select Details for more information.

folderview.exe
Exception

at Microsoft.AGL.Common.MISC.HandleAr(PAL_ERROR ar)
at System.Drawing.Bitmap._InitFromMemoryStream(Memory Stream mstream)
at System.Drawing.Bitmap..ctor(String filename)
at folderview.Form1..ctor()
at System.Reflection.RuntimeConstructorInfo.InternalI nvoke(RuntimeConstructorInfo rtci, BindingFlags invokeAttr, Binder binder, Object parameters, CultureInfo culture, Boolean isBinderDefault, Assembly caller, Boolean verifyAccess, StackCrawlMark& stackMark)
at System.Reflection.RuntimeConstructorInfo.Invoke(Bi ndingFlags invokeAttr, Binder binder, Object[] parameters, CultureInfo culture)
at System.Reflection.ConstructorInfo.Invoke(Object[] parameters)
at System.Activator.CreateInstance(Type type, Boolean nonPublic)
at folderview.My.MyProject.MyForms.Create__Instance__[T](Form1 Instance)
at folderview.My.MyProject.MyForms.get_Form1()
at folderview.Form1.Main()

tested in Cruise M-Amin Final rom NETCF 3.5

thx

Try to use the Deault Blue M2D Theme if this also causes the same unhandled exception. I'm rewriting the app to include file checking if all needed files are in the \Windows Folder. At the moment, this would not work if your graphics files are not in the root of \Windows folder.

Hi greatbal

all ready I test it with original Blue M2D and all files in \Windows Folder and get the same error

thx

Hi greatbal

I can confirm that the new build 11062008 is working great now with me, just extract the exe file from cab and overwrite the original folderview.exe in windows directory

thx

[greatbal]

Hi greatbal

I can confirm that the new build 11062008 is working great now with me, just extract the exe file from cab and overwrite the original folderview.exe in windows directory

thx

good to hear it's working now for you. :)

[jez83uk]

Works well on my hermes.
Would it be too much trouble to have it incorporate the settings menu as well, or maybe have a second one to do settings launched from somewhere else.
I had been using spb mobile shell and am now trying m2d, and I was missing having easy access to the full programs and settings in the shell. This goes some way towards fulfilling that problem.
I should think I will stick with this until TouchXperience (http://www.touchxperience.com/en/touchxperience.html) is released.

[greatbal]

Works well on my hermes.
Would it be too much trouble to have it incorporate the settings menu as well, or maybe have a second one to do settings launched from somewhere else.
I had been using spb mobile shell and am now trying m2d, and I was missing having easy access to the full programs and settings in the shell. This goes some way towards fulfilling that problem.
I should think I will stick with this until TouchXperience (http://www.touchxperience.com/en/touchxperience.html) is released.


Thanks for the feedback. Re Settings, you have the Setting Page which gives you access to "All Settings". But it's "ugly" just like the old "All Programs" of the Programs Page, isn't it? :p


I'll see what I can do. But, not in the near future, as I am still working on Copying/Moving links between folders, and options for re-arranging the order of the folders to your liking. Right now, they are arranged alphabetically which, personally, I don't like. :)

[randomelements]

greatbal

If I don't have any sub folders of Programs then I get an error along the lines of array can't be null

create a sub folder and it works fine.

Is this just an oversight?

Thanks

[greatbal]

greatbal

If I don't have any sub folders of Programs then I get an error along the lines of array can't be null

create a sub folder and it works fine.

Is this just an oversight?

Thanks


Oh, I should add sub-folder checking on the root of \Windows\Start Menu\Programs. I can't believe I missed that. I added "No files checking" but failed to add the line to check if there's no sub folder. I didn't notice that since I organize my links via sub-folders. hehe.

I'll consider that on the next update. Thanks for the feedback. :)

[randomelements]

Cool :)

I use sub folders myself so it's no big issue - it was just something I noticed while setting up my phone after flashing.

[eric_cymok]

Thank you very much...
is a good software...

[greatbal]

Cool :)

I use sub folders myself so it's no big issue - it was just something I noticed while setting up my phone after flashing.

i see. :)

Anyways, I really appreciate the feedback. Thanks!


Thank you very much...
is a good software...

Thanks. :)

[kidnamedAlbert]

okay so i used the new version all day yesterday and i gottta say, MUCH faster than the older one.

GREAT work.
thanks.

[greatbal]

okay so i used the new version all day yesterday and i gottta say, MUCH faster than the older one.

GREAT work.
thanks.

thanks for the feedback. I'm still trying to make the code more efficient in redrawing in order to gain more speed. And i will add additional feature of managing links and folders such as renaming/adding/deleting folders and copying/moving/renaming links afterwards.

[secoseco]

thanks for the feedback. I'm still trying to make the code more efficient in redrawing in order to gain more speed. And i will add additional feature of managing links and folders such as renaming/adding/deleting folders and copying/moving/renaming links afterwards.

Hi greatbal

and if you add alphabet overlay to chose the name of the program like in iContact it will be great

thx

[DeathAxe]

Hi greatbal,

I just found your app and must confess it is pretty a good thing to make windows more useful. I would place some suggestions here:

1. I am using iContacts, which is written in native C++. It uses the same scrolling features, like your M2D App Launcher but seems to run much more fluently on my device. Maybe writing your app in pure C++ code could help reducing memory ussage and speed up drawing?

2. A kind of language pack support would be nice. Is it possible to load strings and menues from resources, so I could create a MUI-File for my language?

3. Is it possible to enable 32bit icon support in your application? This would help to make application icons look much better, especially the large folder icons. One could link 32bit icons for each shortcut, which is ignored by windows, but could improve the look and feel of M2D App Launcher.

4. I converted most of my HH_ files for Manila2d to png to reduce memory ussage. This causes M2D App Launcher to crash as it uses some bmps. M2D App Launcher could maybe look for both bmps and pngs of each image file to solve this issue?

Thanks.

[rstoyguy]

Works Great on my sprint touch! Keep up the great work!

[rstoyguy]

I rearrange my start menu, and I noticed your app seems to only handle directories immediately off the \windows\start menu\programs folder. For example here is my gaming startmenu:

\windows\start menu\programs\games
\windows\start menu\programs\games\arcade
\windows\start menu\programs\games\card games
\windows\start menu\programs\games\strategy

Your app sees the programs in the first folder fine, but it doesn' t seem to have a way to get into the other three folders. Is this on the "to-do" list? It would be great if it could handle nested start menu's...

That would make this a killer app!

[greatbal]

Hi greatbal,

I just found your app and must confess it is pretty a good thing to make windows more useful. I would place some suggestions here:

1. I am using iContacts, which is written in native C++. It uses the same scrolling features, like your M2D App Launcher but seems to run much more fluently on my device. Maybe writing your app in pure C++ code could help reducing memory ussage and speed up drawing?

2. A kind of language pack support would be nice. Is it possible to load strings and menues from resources, so I could create a MUI-File for my language?

3. Is it possible to enable 32bit icon support in your application? This would help to make application icons look much better, especially the large folder icons. One could link 32bit icons for each shortcut, which is ignored by windows, but could improve the look and feel of M2D App Launcher.

4. I converted most of my HH_ files for Manila2d to png to reduce memory ussage. This causes M2D App Launcher to crash as it uses some bmps. M2D App Launcher could maybe look for both bmps and pngs of each image file to solve this issue?

Thanks.


Hi there. Thanks for the comments.

1) I'm not too well-versed in writing C++. The only project i had with that is a "Hello World" app (lol) and an app to launch a single application. I prefer using Net CF.

2)I used very limited text string s(Menu texts and "No files in this directory" only). And of course the "About" strings. hehe. But, I'll consider rewriting to load strings from a resource.

3) I'm using the SHGETFILEINFO to get the handle of the icon in the System Image List. So, it's limited to how Windows handle icons. A solution would be to be able to use custom "icons" in png format to override the current system folder icons. I'm working on that now.

4) I'm working on a stand alone application that uses custom graphics which you can easily change without depending on the M2D graphics. But, there would be an option still to use M2D graphics files if you want to. I plan to use png's with alpha channel to handle transparency.

Again thanks for your inputs.

[greatbal]

I rearrange my start menu, and I noticed your app seems to only handle directories immediately off the \windows\start menu\programs folder. For example here is my gaming startmenu:

\windows\start menu\programs\games
\windows\start menu\programs\games\arcade
\windows\start menu\programs\games\card games
\windows\start menu\programs\games\strategy

Your app sees the programs in the first folder fine, but it doesn' t seem to have a way to get into the other three folders. Is this on the "to-do" list? It would be great if it could handle nested start menu's...

That would make this a killer app!


Yes, I mentioned that on the first post as one of the limitations. But, I'll consider that in the next updates. Because of the design of this app to place all folders icons on the tabs bar, I may have to extract your sub-folder details and contents and place them on the tab too. It's an option for an easy way out. hehe. But, I'll think about it. :)

[shadowmike]

any wm standard support foreseen in the future
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=129211&stc=1&d=1226476152http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=129212&stc=1&d=1226476152http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=129213&stc=1&d=1226476152

[greatbal]

Change log:


Build 11142008:
1) New feature: Copy and Move links between folders. Please see video presentation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXOeJ4-zDW4
2) Faster and smoother scrolling.
3) Same as build 11142008, your M2D graphics files should be in \Windows folder. Otherwise, it will crash.





Attached build 11142008. Please test and post feedbacks. Thanks! :)

PS: Sorry for the poor quality of the video presentation. :(

[eric_cymok]

Thank you very much...
Hopefully, can always keep up dating new version...

[greatbal]

any wm standard support foreseen in the future
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=129211&stc=1&d=1226476152http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=129212&stc=1&d=1226476152http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=129213&stc=1&d=1226476152



i don't think so. If you watch the video presentation, it's optimized for touch screen use. especially the tap-and-hold and drag-and-drop to move/copy icons.

[greatbal]

Change log:


Build 11142008:
1) New feature: Copy and Move links between folders. Please see video presentation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXOeJ4-zDW4

NOTE: Tap-and-hold on a link and drag-and-drop to COPY or MOVE to a specific folder. Default is "MOVE TO" but you can drag the icon to "COPY TO" if you are copying the link to a folder.
2) Faster and smoother scrolling.

3) Same as build 11142008, your M2D graphics files should be in \Windows folder. Otherwise, it will crash.


Ok, I added the instruction on how to copy/move items. Sorry, I forgot. Good thing someone asked me. hehe :p (ANyways,you can see it in the video presentation. However poor the quality is. hehe :D

[toniolol]

Hi,
works nice on my Trinity !
Just an issue : the about menu doesn't work ;)
I don't know how to change the default image of my folders, someone could redirect me in the good section please ?

[greatbal]

Hi,
works nice on my Trinity !
Just an issue : the about menu doesn't work ;)
I don't know how to change the default image of my folders, someone could redirect me in the good section please ?



Ooops. I forgot to add the "About" sub-menu! hehe :p

Thanks. Will add that one important item on the next update. hehe :D


Re customizing folder icons, try Search here and Yaho/Google. Try search words HOW TO CUSTOMIZE FOLDER ICONS. This thing had been discussed several times in the past (3 years). Good luck. :)

Basically, it's just dropping an icon.lnk inside your folders. THe icon.lnk pointsto a dll that contains your customized icons. This is much like in the Windows desktop counterpart.

[randomelements]

Looking forward to trying the new version greatbal :) thanks as always

[benthere06]

Will this work on TF3D as is? or do you still have to install M2D? I have a sprint TP and wanted to install it but i don't want to mess up my touch flow 3D?

[greatbal]

Will this work on TF3D as is? or do you still have to install M2D? I have a sprint TP and wanted to install it but i don't want to mess up my touch flow 3D?


The reason why this works with M2D only at the moment is because it uses the current M2D theme graphics. Please see first post for the files needed.

At the moment, if you want to make this work on systems without M2D, You have to manually copy the appropriate files (from M2D themes you can find on the M2D Themes/Skins thread) to the \Windows folder.

But, I'll make this as a stand-alone application, so that people without M2D installed can try and use this. please watch out for it.

[greatbal]

400+ downloads for build 11142008 and there are only 3 comments. tsk... :(

Either it's totally useless, or totally working as planned. (I don't want to guess...)

I'm almost done with the option to re-arrange folders according to user preferred order. Feedbacks on build 11142008 would be highly appreciated (especially bugs) so I can fix before releasing the next update.


What to expect in the future updates:

1) re-arrange folder's order (next update)
2) stand-alone application but with option to use M2D graphics (if installed on the device) - soon
3) customized folder graphics - soon
4) customized skin - soon


Feedbacks please. Thanks! :)

[toniolol]

You're right, only 3 comments... and I'm of them so don't count this message...
Just to give another feedback of the latest release, very nice !
I just recab it because I launch it as a stand alone app, so I'm glad to see that it will be a real one, with an icon for the link !!!
Next features will be very nice, can't wait for it !!!!!
How dev language do you use for it ?
Thanks for your nice work !

[greatbal]

You're right, only 3 comments... and I'm of them so don't count this message...
Just to give another feedback of the latest release, very nice !
I just recab it because I launch it as a stand alone app, so I'm glad to see that it will be a real one, with an icon for the link !!!
Next features will be very nice, can't wait for it !!!!!
How dev language do you use for it ?
Thanks for your nice work !

I'm using Visual Studio 2005. so, netcf 2.0 (or later) is required to run this application.

Thanks! :)

[motisu]

400+ downloads for build 11142008 and there are only 3 comments. tsk... :(

Either it's totally useless, or totally working as planned. (I don't want to guess...)

I'm almost done with the option to re-arrange folders according to user preferred order. Feedbacks on build 11142008 would be highly appreciated (especially bugs) so I can fix before releasing the next update.


What to expect in the future updates:

1) re-arrange folder's order (next update)
2) stand-alone application but with option to use M2D graphics (if installed on the device) - soon
3) customized folder graphics - soon
4) customized skin - soon


Feedbacks please. Thanks! :)

Whats there to comment on? Everything works exactly right!!:) I have yet to come across a bug. BTW, even though it takes almost 1/2 a minute to open \windows on my BA, once I open the launcher, as long as I don't close it, it works very well, not at all slow.

[ATHelp]

Great App.

I am using it with no problems.

Thanks.

[greatbal]

Whats there to comment on? Everything works exactly right!!:) I have yet to come across a bug. BTW, even though it takes almost 1/2 a minute to open \windows on my BA, once I open the launcher, as long as I don't close it, it works very well, not at all slow.


There's one small bug... with the About screen. hehe :p

Good to hear it's working on your BA. I assume you're running WM6.1? I'm just surpised initial load takes your device around 30 seconds. On my device (Hermes), it loads in only in a couple of seconds.

[greatbal]

Great App.

I am using it with no problems.

Thanks.

Thanks for the feedback. I noticed you have TyTn II.

[tomygunner]

Hello, you wrote in your first post that this images are needed in Windows root folder:

1) "hh_fw_tabbtn.png"
2) "hh_fw_tabbtn_mask.png"
3) "hh_fw_background.png"
4) "hh_fw_background.png"
5) "hh_fw_title.png"
6) "hh_fw_tab_bg_fill.png"
7) "HH_SETTINGS_FOCUSEDBAR.bmp"
8) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR.bmp"
9) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR_MASK.bmp"

Where can i get them??

thanks

[Dr4g0n75]

Hello, you wrote in your first post that this images are needed in Windows root folder:

1) "hh_fw_tabbtn.png"
2) "hh_fw_tabbtn_mask.png"
3) "hh_fw_background.png"
4) "hh_fw_background.png"
5) "hh_fw_title.png"
6) "hh_fw_tab_bg_fill.png"
7) "HH_SETTINGS_FOCUSEDBAR.bmp"
8) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR.bmp"
9) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR_MASK.bmp"

Where can i get them??

thanks

you have m2d installed right?
if so they should be in your windows folder... if for some reason they are in the windows/manillagfx folder make copies and put them in /windows

[greatbal]

Hello, you wrote in your first post that this images are needed in Windows root folder:

1) "hh_fw_tabbtn.png"
2) "hh_fw_tabbtn_mask.png"
3) "hh_fw_background.png"
4) "hh_fw_background.png"
5) "hh_fw_title.png"
6) "hh_fw_tab_bg_fill.png"
7) "HH_SETTINGS_FOCUSEDBAR.bmp"
8) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR.bmp"
9) "HH_SETTINGS_SEPARATOR_MASK.bmp"

Where can i get them??

thanks


you could find several of those in the M2D Themes/Skins thread. Most downloads are in zip format, so you just have to unzip them in your hard drive and copy the required files in your \Windows directory.

[Dr4g0n75]

greatbal... great app... love the way it uses existing graphic files so it blends in perfectly to m2d

could you perhaps implement this in your comm manager too? this way all your awesome apps always match my themes... thanks for your great work...

[LiquidSolstice]

So is this a full fledged file explorer? or just an app launcher?

Because from the screenshots, it looks liek it can browse directories too...

[bbonzz]

NOTE: Hence, this would only work if you have M2D running on your device!

Works also in my Blackstone with TF3D, simply installing your cab and adding the attached files (roughly modified to fit WVGA, only to test) to \windows dir.

BUT, it looks a bit ugly, since the vertical space between programs shown is 41 pixels, while i'll need at least 71 (that is the height in TF3D launcher) or better 82. And if i modify the HH_SETTINGS_FOCUSEDBAR.bmp to 71 px height (or even 42px), i have an error message:

folderview.exe
Exception

in Microsoft.AGL.Common.MISC.HandleAr()
in System.Drawing.Bitmap._InitFromMemoryStream()
in System.Drawing.Bitmap..ctor()
in M2D_AppLauncher.Form1.LoadBitmaps()
in M2D_AppLauncher.Form1_Load()
in System.Windows.Forms.Form._SetVisibleNotify()
in System.Windows.Forms.Control.set_visible()
in System.Windows.Forms.Application.Run()
in M2D_AppLauncher.Form1.main()

So, since i'd really like to use this launcher in my HD (I have spent nearly a month testing all the possible launchers before seeing your, that was exactely wat i was looking for), would be possible for you to tune the code to double the row height from 41 to 82 px, making it fit WVGA (and TF3D)?

of course, if you do, i'll skin it the right way

TIA

[juanmre]

Hi Greatbal,
Thanks for this application. Actually I first met it when installing a new ROM with your launcher embedded; unfortunately I did not like very much that ROM but I missed this Launcher. Now I finally found it and installed it.

If it is useful for you, I'm using HTC Touch Cruise (Polaris) with [WWE] 3LIT3 Suite [Full] (Blackstone Build 20764.1.4.3) and it is working fine...

Best regards,
JM

[JukEboXAuDiO]

is there a way to use this in throttlelauncher and not M2D? Can I direct throttle to a specific exe?

[JukEboXAuDiO]

Ok given up on Throttle Launcher. Is it possible to put this program on the programs tab instead of the grid of shortcuts?

[Dr4g0n75]

Ok given up on Throttle Launcher. Is it possible to put this program on the programs tab instead of the grid of shortcuts?

when you go to the programs tab and hit all programs this will pop up... at the present time you cannot replace tabs in m2d with plugins

[z3ntn3l]

Hi! This App is exactly what i was searching for and its great! Thank you very much!

But i have 2 questions:

1. Is it possible to start the app directly? Is there any exe? Because i want to link this app with M2DC on a Softbutton.

2. Is it possible to improve the scrolling? Other Applications scrolls way "smoother" than this. OK, its not that bad but maybe its possible to improve?

[chris.dale]

How do I uninstall this program? It is not listed in installed program. I would like to try Touch Launch, but it won't work if M2D App Launcher is on. Can you help me? Even if I had to uninstall in manually (by deleling files and registry)

[bbonzz]

delete manually the files, there are no registry entries

[LeAdReW]

unable to launch, it is writing- unable to locate tab button image files

but i have just installed manila and havent changed anything,whats wrong?

[red_hanks]

Hey Greatbal, thank you for this. One of the best apps that I am using on my BA. Thanks man. Can I put you apps to my blog?

[poisonspider]

I like to install on my Touch or Touch Dual.. does it work on this 2 devices? And what I have to install first?

On both devices are Spb MS 2.1 and till now MS2.1 Diamond Theme Version 1.1. Can I use the M2D App Launcher with this?

Thanks!

[Ed Zakhary]

Hey Greatbal,
This is a fantastic app. Is there any way to make something like this for contacts? (Considering the paltry amount of speed-dial contacts M2D gives you...)

[TomasNM]

Hello guys. Is it possible to have VGA version of this launcher? Or can I modify the dimensions somehow?
On VGA it looks so...

[oruam57]

Hello guys. Is it possible to have VGA version of this launcher? Or can I modify the dimensions somehow?
On VGA it looks so...

Yes please, please, please... I'd like to replace the diamond2 "allprograms" that really stinks (no folder at all, only a single list for all programs!).

[alexirsi]

A stand-alone-version that works without M2D installed would be great. :)
Or at least a pack of the needed files (from post #1)

Great work indeed!

EDIT: I made and attached a package with the mania-graphics, just unzip it to \Windows

[166486]

A stand-alone-version that works without M2D installed would be great. :)
Or at least a pack of the needed files (from post #1)

Great work indeed!

EDIT: I made and attached a package with the mania-graphics, just unzip it to \Windows


is there a way that you can also add this feature to were you can view the file on your SD Card the same way you have done the the main file preview

[MCXSC]

Nice app.

But two things: It is quite slow... And a configtool, f.e. to show icons only (in style of the favorite programs tab of m2d) is nice. ;)

[torrentonly]

Slowness depends on speed of your device. I am using it on Iolite and without problems. Yet :).

[polemos]

That's because of the bitmap mask on the tab bar. Without the mask, scrolling would have been a lot lot faster. I'm using .netcf and I can't find a good class to handle bitmap masks. so i implemented it using lockbits and manipulated the pixels one-by-one. Not an elegant way of doing it, but it works well.

That is a great piece of software indeed. Congrats.

The sliding goes slow in my Omnia, strange since I believe it has a decent CPU. When I go to \windows\ it takes around almost a sec for the files to appear.

Even though I understand that making manipulations with pixels, one-by-one style, is a LOT of work, wouldn't be nicer if there was an option to disable the bitmap mask on the tab bar?

Just a thought. Congratulations again for your good work.

-(You will be the first person to receive a donation from me, I just signed with paypal, not much though :o ).-

[Lewy1]

Thanks for this amazing app!
I have a sprint touch with NFSFAN's v15 rom, after installing your program it still doesn't work when I tap on the all programs key, but it will work when I tap on folderview.exe in the windows directory. I'm not sure but it might have to do with the fact that in this rom the all programs key is linked to a scrolling list of all the programs, not like the native m2d which will bring you to the regular windows programs screen. Please help.

[Lewy1]

I didn't solve my problem yet, but I did come up with a simple idea that I believe many people will find useful. With the following you will be able to run the Launcher from the home tab of Manilla 2D. You can install M2D customizer by mpenguin14 original thread here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=427392 and costomize one of the softkeys on your home tab to launch the M2D Launcher by navigating to the windows directory and selecting folderview.exe. Of course you can name it what ever you want and that will show up as the softkey on your home tab.

[Livven]

This is great, only the sliding is a bit sluggish on the old Hermes :p. And, are you planning to continue developing this? It'd be appreciated, for sure :).

Anyway, I made a standalone version with the needed graphics and latest build.

[m2tth]

The standalone program doesn't work on VGA.
Is there some "tuning" to do?

[Livven]

It's supposed to work on QVGA only...

[m2tth]

It's supposed to work on QVGA only...

Aarrrgggg....
Even in VGA and even if it doesn't work, it looks so fab!!

[sponge_worthy]

I know this is an old thread/program, but I was playing around with my old Wizard and found this wonderful program. I've been having RAM problems with my Tilt2 and would like to disable the windows start menu and use a replacement to save upwards of 10MB of RAM. I haven't done this yet because I haven't found a good solution yet ... until now. I think it would be worth donations to several people including me if this could get working on (W)VGA devices especially where RAM is a problem. Any chance of resurrecting this great app?