Master Control Panel Announcement

Sick of having to edit text files? Well, that's no longer a problem, thanks to our shiny new programmer, Shaun Overton. He's currently working on a program that will completely remove the need for tedious (and repetitive) configuration file editing. Simply click the field you want to edit, click save and you're done.

This in mind, this removes the need for the LaunchCenter to run batch files that open directories and configuration files. With that, the role that the the LaunchCenter will play in version 6.3 onwards will be reduced to simply launching LCARS 47 applications only. The LaunchCenter will also be further streamlined and the ambient sound control removed.

LaunchCenter Gets Some Dev Time

The image in Friday's post got me thinking. Thinking about a new LaunchCenter. I mean why not? We have Drydock and Champaign to work with, an MSD style LaunchCenter seemed inevitable.

T-Minus One Week

LCARS Vexillum (Codename: Version 5.4) • Confirmed

VoiceCommand • Champaign Custom Name and Registry • Drydock Starship Class Plugins (8 complete classes on launch night) • Touchscreen Compliant • Revamped Animations • New Sounds

LCARS Prolixus (Codename: Version 6) • Confirmed
VoiceCommand • Champaign Custom Name and Registry • Drydock Starship Class Plugins • Completely Customizable Personnel Files • Ongoing Federation Databanks (with future updates) Touchscreen Compliant • Brand New Animations • New Sounds 

Both versions, one launcher, one Captain... You.

Customizable Personnel Database Complete

The customizable personnel database is now complete. Simply add the text and an image, save in the correct directory and it'll be there when you start LCARS 47. You may have noticed that the layout has changed. It seemed more fitting to redesign it.

All the common fields are editable including the name and rank and there's enough space in the biography section for about two paragraphs. You'll notice that your ship's name and registry are also displayed on screen; I thought it would give an added touch of personalization throughout the database.

The image placeholder (right) should also be replaced by an image of your choice. The dimensions must be 454 pixels by 500 pixels and it must be in a JPEG format without progressive scanning. So, suit up and smile.

There are 10 slots for database entries, but that can be increased at a later date.

Version 5 gets an MSD Overhaul

In the next update for version 5 (5.3), the app will lose all of the Intrepid class diagrams ready to support the new MSD plugins feature which will be required to be installed after you update LCARS 47. Tactical ship icons like the one pictured, will also reflect whichever plugin is installed and since it's now handled externally, the ship diagrams are even more detailed.

Don't worry if you were a fan of the Intrepid class, it will be available for download as a plugin (see: full list).

The Champaign update has also been applied to version 5.3, so it's now even more your own.