DesignPro Tools for AFP
M i g r a t i o n G u i d e
C
1998-2008 Elixir Technologies Corporation . All rights reserved.
Elixir Technologies Corporation
721 East Main Street
Ventura, CA 93001
Copyright ©2008 by Elixir Technologies Corporation.
All rights reserved.
DP200801V300
All product names and trade names used herein are trademarks of their respective owners.
To report any errors you might find, please send a note to errata@elixir.com. Please note: e-mails
are used to correct future versions of this guide and may not receive an individual reply. For
technical support, please see “Customer Support” on page 10.
2 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction 5
DesignPro Tools Overview....................................................................6
Associated DesignPro Tools Applications and Utilities........................6
About This Guide?.................................................................................7
Who Should Use This Guide?..................................................................... 7
Related Guides.............................................................................. .... ..... ...... 8
Conventions...........................................................................................8
Typographic Conventions............................................................................ 8
Symbolic Conventions................................................................................. 9
Getting the Answers You Need...........................................................10
Customer Support...................................................................................... 10
Elixir Web Site .......................................................................................... 11
Elixir Training ........................................................................................... 11
Product Help.............................................................................................. 12
Release Notes ............................................................................................ 12
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to
DesignPro Tools 13
DesignPro Tools Components...................................................................13
Before You Install: A Checklist ................................................................ 14
Installation................................................................................................. 16
Supported File Formats in DesignPro Tools.............................................19
PostScript, PCL and PDF Support....................................................................20
Licensing ................................................................................................... 20
Configuration.............................................................................................20
Feature Set Comparison............................................................................. 20
Setting Input and Output Parameters......................................................... 24
Raster vs. Vector Objects..................................................................................30
Understanding Workflows.........................................................................31
Resource Migration ...................................................................................34
Migrating: Directory Structure.........................................................................37
Migrating: Forms..............................................................................................42
Font Lists..........................................................................................................44
Contents 3
Tags..................................................................................................................46
Proof Printing...................................................................................................47
Color Palettes and Shade Patterns................................................. ...................47
Migrating: Fonts............................................. ..................................................47
Migrating: Images....................................... ................................................... ..47
Migrating: Visual PPFA...................................................................................48
File Settings .....................................................................................................52
Font and Segment Mapping....................................................... ......................53
Migrating: Resource Mapping............................. ............................................53
Custom Tools and Processes..................................................................... 55
Dispatcher and User Tools...............................................................................55
Transformer...................................................................................................... 55
Loader ..............................................................................................................55
Proof Printing...................................................................................................55
Conversion from Microsoft Windows and PDF File Formats.........................56
Proofing Variable Data Applications ...............................................................56
Automated Processing...................................................................................... 57
Index 59
4 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Chapter 1:
Introduction
Welcome to the DesignPro Tools for AFP Migration Guide. This guide provides
information on migrating from the Elixir Application Suite (EAS) to DesignPro Tools.
This guide is not intended to replace the recommended DesignPro Tools training course.
Elixir recommends that all DesignPro Tools customers attend an Elixir DesignPro Tools
training class.
Information on the following is included in this guide:
Before you install: a checklist.
Installation notes for the migrating user.
Information on licensing and configuration.
Setting up input and output parameters for reading and writing resources.
A workflow comparison between Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro Tools for
creating a form.
Resource migration.
When and how to upgrade your existing resources to DesignPro Tools.
Specific instructions for certain applications that migrating users should know.
Custom tools and processes.
A look at a few Elixir Application Suite tools that are not supported, or are supported
differently in DesignPro Tools.
It is important that all migrating users read this chapter prior to installing,
configuring, and using DesignPro Tools.
This chapter defines who should use this guide, describes the guides within the DesignPro
Tools documentation set, and provides Elixir Customer Supp ort and training information.
5
DesignPro Tools Overview
DesignPro Tools for AFP provides a Windows-based, visual design environment for the
rapid and cost-effective creation of resources and variable designs for the AFP print
environment. DesignPro Tools supports integrated OGL and PPFA editors that make it
easy to create and edit the overlays, fonts, images, and data layout needed for AFP
printing. Once designed, resources can be saved in the AFP Source or Object format.
Developed according to the published IBM Advanced Function Presentation (AFP)
standards, DesignPro Tools supports Record Format, as well as Trad itional PageDefs and
enables the management and conversion of resources to different formats.
Forms and overlays are two terms for the same resource object. This guide uses
these terms interchangeably.
Associated DesignPro Tools Applications and Utilities
DesignPro Tools is a collection of editors, applications and utilities:
DesignPro Manager: a Windows-based desktop program for managing and
converting resources to multiple supported formats. You can also open other
DesignPro Tools applications using the Manager.
DesignPro Form Editor: an advanced form design tool used to create and edit
forms for AFP printers.
DesignPro Visual PPFA: an application for developing overlay, FormDef and
PageDef resources for IBM PPFA printing. Also allows advanced options such as
selecting a sample data file for PageDef creation and proofing with that sample data
file onscreen.
DesignPro Font Editor: aa complete font design application used for creating and
editing AFP raster fonts, as well as Elixir and PCL fonts. You can also open True
T ype fonts in this editor.
DesignPro Graphics Editor: a full service bitmap editor providing various
transformations and commands for tiling graphics into raster fonts.
6 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Elixir PrintDriver Pro: a utility for “printing” Windows documents into forms.
Windows documents can be opened in their original format and printed using the
Elixir PrintDriver into forms. All supported formats can be created using the
PrintDriver.
Elixir Scout: a system service that watches directories for a file or an event to
perform any number of actions like opening an executable (EXE or COM), running a
batch file (BAT or CMD), or selecting a process (DLL).
Elixir Viewer: displays printstream and resource files.
AFPDS T ree: displays the hierarchical structure of AFPDS files and the binary data
contained in the structured field records.
About This Guide?
This guide is divided into two chapters:
Chapter 1: Introduction, provides a general introduction to DesignPro Tools and the
DesignPro Tools Migration Guide.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools, provides
information on migrating from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools.
Who Should Use This Guide?
Anyone migrating from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools should start here and
review this guide for instructions and notes pertaining to installation, configuration, and
using DesignPro Tools.
This guide assumes you are already familiar with Elixir Application Suite. In addition,
you should be familiar with Microsoft Windows operations, printer and font management
operations and PC peripherals. You should also have access to reference manuals for PC
software and hardware, including any printers you are using for the design and print
processes.
Chapter 1: Introduction 7
Related Guides
If you require further information about a specific topic or wish to obtain product
background information, reference the following resources, all of which are part of the
DesignPro Tools for AFP documentation package.
DesignPro Tools for AFP Getting Started Guide
DesignPro Tools Manager for AFP User Guide
DesignPro Tools Form Editor for AFP User Guide
DesignPro Tools Visual PPFA User Guide
DesignPro Tools Font Editor for AFP User Guide
DesignPro Tools Graphics Editor for AFP User Guide
Conventions
Elixir products adhere to Microsoft Windows conventions for using menus, menu
commands, dialogs, command buttons, icons and the mouse. See your Windows manual
for more information.
Refer to the following for more information on the conventions used in this guide:
T ypographic Conventions (page 8)
Symbolic Conventions (page 9)
Typographic Conventions
Following typographic conventions are used in this guide to identify special information.
Convention Information Type/Example
Bold type Text for you to enter.
Field names, windows, toolbars, buttons and workspace areas
within a
task step.
Example: From the File menu, select Open.
Example: Click Edit Property Settings.
Italic type References to other documents and books.
Example: refer to the DesignPro Tools Form Editor for AFP User
Guide.
8 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Symbolic Conventions
Look for the following symbols as you read through this guide to identify special
information:
The Note symbol calls your attention to additional information.
The Tip symbol highlights a helpful tip.
The Shortcut symbol calls your attention to an easier way of accomplishing a
task.
The Warning symbol warns you of problems you might encounter.
The Migrating Users symbol provides notes and tips for anyone migrating from
a previous version of DesignPro Tools or Elixir Application Suite.
Chapter 1: Introduction 9
The Question symbol refers you to the online help for more information.
To open online help:
From the Help menu, select Help Topics.
or
Click in an open dialog
Getting the Answers You Need
Elixir Technologies provides you with multiple ways to learn and use DesignPro Tools:
Customer Support (page 10)
Elixir Web Site (page 11)
Elixir Training (page 11)
Product Help (page 12)
Release Notes (page 12)
Customer Support
If you purchased this product directly from Elixir Technologies, you can contact the
Customer Support Center for your region at the number listed below.
If you have purchased this product from some other source, please contact the
authorized support representative from that source. Elixir provides customer
support for products purchased directly from Elixir.
North and South America:
+1 805 641 5900 ext. 3
Monday - Friday, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm Pacific Standard Time; if closed, press 2 to
reach Elixir’s extended Support coverage.
Elx_support@elixir.com
10 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Asia Pacific:
Asia_support@elixir.com
Europe:
+44 (0) 207 993-4811
Monday - Friday, 6:00 am to 4:00 pm Central European Time
+1 805 641 5900 ext. 3
Monday - Friday, 4:00 pm to 2:00 am Central European Time
Europe_support@elixir.com
An Elixir Product Specialist will take your call and ask for the following information:
Your name, organization, telephone number and address.
Elixir product name and version number.
A complete description of the problem, including any error messages printed or
displayed on your monitor.
Elixir Web Site
You can obtain product support from the Elixir web page at www.elixir.com.
Select Support to:
Ask a question of Elixir Support.
Download the latest product releases and patches.
View the latest product Release Notes.
Sign up for Elixir Training.
Renew your product license.
Elixir Training
Elixir Technologies offers training for its full-range of W indows-based products. For more
information, contact Elixir Learning at +1 805 641 5900, ext. 4.
Chapter 1: Introduction 11
Product Help
Elixir software uses the Microsoft Windows Help program to provide online help for all
product functions.
This online tool includes step-by-step procedures that you can follow as you work
Context-Sensitive Help can be activated from within the software for certain
dialogs by clicking available on the top right corner of a dialog.
Online Help can be opened from any component from the Help menu by selecting
Contents.
Release Notes
Release Notes display at the start of product installation so you can review them before
beginning the installation process. Once installation completes, you can access Release
Notes from the product CD at drive:\Relnotes. There are two formats of the Release Notes
file: Relnotes.pdf and Relnotes.txt. The TXT file can be viewed using either Notepad or
WordPad. The PDF file can be viewed using Adobe Reader.
12 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Chapter 2:
Migration from Elixir
Application Suite to
DesignPro Tools
In this chapter...
Before You Install: A Checklist
Installation
Setting Input and Output Parameters
Understanding Workflows
Resource Migration
Custom Tools and Processes
DesignPro Tools Components
DesignPro Tools is available in the following configurations:
DesignPro Tools Professional (supported output format: AFP, Xerox, Elixir, PCL,
PS, PDF)
DesignPro Tools for Xerox (supported output formats: Xerox, Elixir, PCL, PS, PDF)
DesignPro Tools for AFP (supported output formats: AFP, Elixir, PCL, PS, PDF)
DesignPro Form Editor (supported output formats: Elixir, PCL, PS, PDF)
The DesignPro Form Editor package provides only Elixir form (ELX, EFR), font (HD R )
and image (LP3) output formats. A Professional, AFP, or Xerox package is required to
convert these resources into other print formats.
13
Most customers purchase the standalone Form Editor package when they have more than
one person designing/editing forms. In such a situation, they purchase multiple standalone Form Editors to generate resources in Elixir formats and one full package of
DesignPro Tools (Professional, Xerox, or AFP depending on their print environment) to
convert the Elixir resources.
Forms and overlays are two terms for the same resource object. This guide uses
these terms interchangeably.
Before You Install: A Checklist
Before you start installing, configuring, or using DesignPro Tools, here are a few
questions you should think through and find answers to:
1 Should I install DesignPro Tools on a separate PC or use the PC I am already using
for Elixir Application Suite?
DesignPro Tools can coexist with Elixir Application Suite without any issues.
For more information, see “Installation” on page 16.
You should not install DesignPro Tools on a PC that already has Elixir software
other than the Elixir Application Suite installed, such as Opus.
DesignPro Tools can be installed on a PC with Transformation Suite and
PageMiner only if the base release for all products is the same. For example,
DesignPro Tools Version 3.00 can be installed with version 8.00 of
Transformation Suite and version 4.00 of PageMiner. Contact Elixir Customer
Support before installing DesignPro Tools on a PC which has Transformation
Suite and/or PageMiner installed.
DesignPro Tools can be installed with Vitesse on the same PC. Contact Elixir
Customer Support before installing DesignPro Tools on a PC which has Vitesse
installed.
2 What Operating System and Print Compilers do I need for DesignPro Tools?
See the Software Requirements section in Chapter 2: Installation of the
DesignPro Tools for AFP Getting Started Guide.
3 Do I need to worry about concurrent licensing for Elixir Application Suite and
DesignPro Tools?
No – See “Licensing” on page 20 in this chapter.
14 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
4 Now that DesignPro Tools supports using native resources, should I use native
resources or Elixir resources (or both)?
See “Resource Migration” on page 34 in this chapter.
5 Do I need to move my existing resources into the DesignPro Tools environment
immediately?
No – See “Resource Migration” on page 34 in this chapter.
6 Can I use EAS AppBuilder PageDefs and FormDefs in Visual PPFA?
Yes – See “Resource Migration” on page 34 in this chapter.
For step by step instructions on upgrading a PageDef and FormDef to Visual
PPFA, see “Migrating: Visual PPFA” on page 48 in this chapter.
7 Am I using any custom processes (for example, programs built in Visual Basic to
facilitate certain Elixir Application Suite tasks) with my Elixir Application Suite
system?
If so, you will need to identify these and determine if they are still needed in
DesignPro Tools.
Shortcuts to programs and utilities can be added to the DesignPro Manager; see
the DesignPro Tools Manager for AFP User Guide for instructions on adding
shortcuts in the DesignPro Manager.
8 Am I using the Dispatcher, Transformer, or Loader in Elixir Application Suite?
Refer to “Custom Tools and Processes” on page 55 for more information:
9 Am I using the Transformer in Elixir Application Suite?
See “Transformer” on page 55 in this chapter.
10 Am I using any custom font or segment mappings?
See “Migrating: Resource Mapping” on page 53 in this chapter.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 15
Installation
Should you install DesignPro Tools on a separate PC from Elixir Application Suite? The
choice you make depends on your workflow, and how you want to integrate the new
software into your environment. Some considerations for both options are listed below to
help you make decision.
The DesignPro Tools for AFP Getting Started Guide, provided with every package of
DesignPro Tools and also available on the product install CD, describes the stepby-step process of installing DesignPro Tools. Please make sure that you go
through this guide before installing DesignPro Tools.
When installing DesignPro Tools on a separate PC:
If you want to open existing Elixir Application Suite resources, you will need to
create a profile referencing the location of those resources on your PC or network.
Profiles are created in the DesignPro Manager. For details, refer to DesignPro Tools
Manager for AFP User Guide.
When installing DesignPro Tools on the same PC as Elixir Application Suite:
Back up all existing Elixir Application Suite resources before installing DesignPro
Tools.
The DesignPro Tools installation will not interfere with your existing resources in
any way. However, once you open and save a resource in DesignPro Tools, you may
not be able to open that same resource in Elixir Application Suite again due to
updates in the Elixir format. This specifically applies to ELX forms; when opened in
Elixir Application Suite after modification in DesignPro Tools, the Elixir
Application Suite Form Editor may ignore some objects. For this reason, you may
wish to have a backup version of each original resource, in the event you need it
again within Elixir Application Suite.
Recommended Installation Approach:
If you are installing DesignPro Tools on a machine that has an Elixir Application
Suite installed, we recommend that you install DesignPro Tools in a separate folder.
Elixir Application Suite is always installed under a folder drive:\Elixir, so it is
recommended that you change the target folder name to an alternate name during the
DesignPro Tools installation process. Recommended alternate folder names are:
• DPT
• DPTools
• DesignPro
16 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Installing DesignPro Tools in a separate and unique folder will help you keep your
old and new resources separate. It will also make it easier to identify older resources
that are no longer in use in the event you wish to move these older resources to
another location or delete them entirely. Naming the DesignPro Tools folder as
suggested above will also assist the Elixir Customer Support Team in helping you
with questions.
During installation, a previous Elixir Application Suite installation is recogni zed.
You will be asked if you want to use the same resource location for DesignPro Tools
as is being used for Elixir Application Suite.
The existing EAS file structure is recognized during install. You are prompted to
select a resource location for the new installation.
The complete installation process and all software and hardware requirements
are documented in Chapter 2: Installation of the DesignPro Tools for AFP Getting
Started Guide.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 17
The DesignPro T ools installation creates a set of folders organized by res ource type that is
slightly different than Elixir Application Suite systems. The input and output folders for
each resource type have been eliminated and a single folder for each type is used.
However, many of the Elixir resource folder locations remain the same. For example,
Elixir fonts are located in drive:\Elixir\Fonts\Elixir for both Elixir Application Suite and
DesignPro Tools.
The EAS directory structure. Each resource
type has an input and an output folder.
The DesignPro Tools directory
structure. Notice that there is only one
folder for AFP overlays. This includes
both input and output overlays.
The EAS directory structure. Each resource type has an input and an output folder.
18 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
If you choose to use a different location for your resources and you want to use Elixir
Application Suite resources in DesignPro Tools, you will need to create a profile
referencing the Elixir Application Suite resource location.
Profiles are created in the DesignPro Manager. For instructions on creating profiles, refer
to the DesignPro Tools Ma nager for AFP User Guide.
If you choose not to use a different location for your resources, you will need to be
vigilant about resources needed in Elixir Application Suite.
Forms, images, and fonts can use the same extensions in DesignPro Tools as are
used in Elixir Application Suite. Resources are not completely backwards
compatible, which means any file opened and saved in DesignPro Tools may not
open correctly in Elixir Application Suite. This specifically applies to ELX forms
and any AFP format resources created in DesignPro Tools. New functionality
supported in DesignPro Tools is not available in EAS.
Physical path settings for each resource folder are controlled globally by virtual folders in
the DesignPro Manager, and managed within each DesignPro Tools application using the
Profile Selection dialog. Changes in virtual folders are posted to a profile file, and
multiple profile files can be created to enable custom combinations of resource paths.
If you have multiple customers or projects that require discrete collections of resources,
you can create individual profiles for each collection of resources and activate those
profiles during resource editing sessions. For more information on the directory structure,
refer to “Migrating: Directory Structure” on page 37 in this chapter.
Supported File Formats in DesignPro Tools
DesignPro Tools lets you work with native AFP resources, thus eliminating the need for
resource conversion. Note that compilers are included in DesignPro Tools. The following
native formats are supported in DesignPro Tools:
AFP
Forms: OVE, OGL
Fonts: AFP bounded and unbounded, ATM Type 1, True Type
Images: AFP PSEG, JPG, BMP, TIFF, PNG, PCX
PageDefs/FormDefs: Object (OBJ), Source (PPFA)
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 19
PostScript, PCL and PDF Support
In addition to AFP format, DesignPro Tools also provides option for saving your forms in
PostScript, PCL and PDF format. When saved in PostScript or PCL formats, forms can be
easily proof printed on network printers. PDF format provides more flexibility and
portability. You can attach the form to an e-mail and send it for review or approval.
Licensing
For DesignPro Tools, you will use a new license file. The presence of the new license file
will not interfere with the existing license for Elixir Application Suite.
Configuration
The configuration and setup files for DesignPro Tools are stored independently of the
Elixir Application Suite configuration files. This enables both systems to run
independently from one another, even when installed on the same PC.
Converter settings (Desktop settings in Elixir Application Suite) will need to be manually
reset in each DesignPro Tools application. These settings are accessed by selecting Tools,
Application Format Setting and Input Formats, Output Formats, and/or Elixir
Properties from the application menu. You can also save the input and output properties
in a custom EPM file and then load the same EPM file in each application. You can save
and load EPM files by selecting Tools, Application Format Setting, Load or Save.
For more information on saving and loading EPM files, refer to the DesignPro Tools
Manager for AFP User Guide.
Feature Set Comparison
In this section, a comparison of Elixir Suites and DesignPro Tools is provided in the
following tables. The first table provides a general comparison between Elixir Application
Suite and DesignPro Tools. The second table provides a comparison between Elixir Form
and DesignPro Form Editor. The third table compares APPBuilder and Visual PPFA.
20 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Elixir Application Suite vs. DesignPro Tools:
Elixir Application Suite DesignPro Tools
Elixir Application Suite editors work only
with Elixir-format resources, requ iring Elixir
Desktop to be used to convert native formats
into Elixir formats before any further usage.
Rigid folder structure for conversions and
other operations.
User interface provided very few
customizing options.
16 bit environment. 32 bit environment.
AppBuilder for AFP – Option available for
additional price.
PrintDriver – Option available for additional
price.
The need to pre-convert resources has been
eliminated. Instead, a resource, in its native
AFP format, is loaded directly into the editing
application using standard File/Open function.
No pre-conversion of resources (font, form,
image) is required.
Folder structure can be customized. Files ca n
be input from or output to any Windows folder
on the local machine or on the network.
Windows-standard, highly intuitiv e interface
with full customizing toolbars.
Integrated into DesignPro Tools. Includes
Visual PPFA for handling PPFA PageDef and
FormDef. Imports all DBF files created in
AppBuilder for AFP. Visual PPFA is available
only in DesignPro Tools for AFP and
Professional.
Integrated into DesignPro Tools. Includes the
enhanced PrintDriver Pro that enables user to
convert Microsoft Windows documents into
AFP and Elixir forms. It also converts
resources, such as fonts and images, into target
formats on the fly. For more information, refer
to “Conversion from Microsoft Windows and
PDF File Formats” on page 56.
Elixir Viewer – Option available for
additional price.
No automation capability. Includes Elixir Scout for automation of
No Profiles facility for multiple users. Profiles for multiple users that preserve
Integrated into DesignPro Tools. Includes
Elixir Viewer to view various file formats.
frequently performed operations. For more
information, refer to “Automated Processing”
on page 57.
individual environment settings for each user.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 21
Elixir Application Suite DesignPro Tools
No Virtual folders capability. Virtual folders enable easy management of
multiple sets of resources.
Online Help available. Improved Help including context-sensitive,
Windows-based online help.
Elixir Form vs. DesignPro Form Editor:
Elixir Form DesignPro Form Editor
Input formats: ELX only . Cannot open native
AFPformats.
Output formats: ELX only. Requires
Converter for conversion to native AFP
formats.
No support for full color images. Full color, highlight color and black and white
Supports image formats: LP3, TIF, BMP,
LW 8. Conversion required for other formats.
Font barcode support. No BCOCA support. Full support for BCOCA and font barcodes.
Grid display and Snap to Grid. No
Guidelines.
Limited zoom level control. Zoom level control from 10% to 1000% with
No proofing through preview option
available.
Standard toolset for lines, boxes, ellipses,
paths and text.
No text import option, spell check available. Import RTF and TXT files directly into your
No inline editing of images. Edit images within the DesignPro Form Editor.
Input: ELX, EFR, OGL, OVE, EP (Elixir
PrintDriver Form) and EMF (Windows EMF).
EFR, OGL, OVE, PostScript, PCL,
Output:
PDF and Image File (TIF). No conversion
required.
images fully supported.
Supports image formats: JPG, BMP, TIF, PCX,
PNG, AFP PSegs (IM GOCA, IOCA). No
conversions required.
Easy barcode inclusion to design through dragand-drop.
Grid display, Snap to Grid and Guidelines for
easy alignment and positioning of objects.
‘Fit to page’ and ‘Whole page’ options.
Instant proofing capability by preview in Elixir
Viewer . Proof print direction from the Viewer
on local network PCL/PS printers. For more
information, refer to “Proofing Variable Data
Applications” on page 56.
Enhanced toolset for lines, boxes, ellipses,
paths and text.
forms. Edit text just like in a word processor.
Split, join, justify and reformat text. Run spell
check as you type or spell check the entire text
block.
22 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Elixir Form DesignPro Form Editor
Font mapping is available through mapping
files that require manual editing.
No resource manager. Resource Manager provides a visual listing of
No option to save or load font lists. Save and import font lists. Import fonts into
Data Tags are supported. No visual depiction
of tag structure in a form.
16-bit graphical user interface. 32-bit graphical user interface. Easy to use for
Includes Resource Map that provides a visual
interface for easy mapping of fonts.
all resources, including fonts, graphics and
color palettes, which are used in a particular
form. Provides shortcut for easy inclusion,
removal, or export of these resources.
font lists automatically with RTF files.
Data Tags are supported. Manage window
provides a Tag tree structure for easy
manipulation and management of tags in a
form.
users familiar with Microsoft Windows
application.
APPBuilder vs. Visual PPFA:
APPBuilder Visual PPFA
No Record format PageDef support. Visual PPFA is the first visual editor in the
industry to offer Record format PageDef
support.
No PPF A sour ce code display. Real-time display of PPFA source code.
No comment import from PPFA source. Auto-import of comments from PPFA source.
No facility to generate Object list. Object lists available.
No option to load or view data for mapping
on PageDef.
Data to be defined when fields are entered.
No drag-n-drop of data possible.
Preview with live data requires IBM viewer,
not easy to setup.
N-UP option available. Basic and enhanced N-UP supported with
Floating page segment and form support; no
viewing capabilities.
Load and view sample data in EBCDIC, ASCII
and mixed-mode formats.
Define records and fields by drag-n-drop of
fields to the Design Area.
Instant preview option with live sample data in
Elixir Viewer (included). Proof validity as IBM
ACIF is used in the background to generate the
proof.
improved viewing capabilities.
Floating page segments and forms visible in
work area.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 23
APPBuilder Visual PPFA
Limited to black and white and highlight
color support, no color support.
16-bit graphical user interface. 32-bit graphical user interface. Easy to use for
Visual PPFA is available only in DesignPro Tools Professional (supports both
Xerox and AFP environments) and DesignPro Tools for AFP (supports AFP
environment only).
Color and full color support for RGB, CMYK
and OCA color. Black and white and highlight
colors are also supported.
users familiar with Microsoft Windows
applications.
Setting Input and Output Parameters
In each of the DesignPro Tools applications, you can access input and output property
dialogs for each resource type. Input properties define how a resource is read by the
application for viewing and editing, and output properties define how a resource is written
or saved to a target format.
In Elixir Application Suite, all of these properties are set when converting resources on the
Desktop. In DesignPro Tools, these properties can be accessed in each application when
opening and saving, as well as in the DesignPro Manager when using the Conversions
dialog.
This section shows you how to access these property dialogs.
In this section, DesignPro Form Editor is used to display input and output
property dialogs. All DesignPro Tools applications access and display property
dialogs using the same steps.
24 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
1 From the Start menu, select Program, Elixir Applications, DesignPro Tools,
DesignPro Form Editor.
To access input property pages when opening a resource:
2 From the File menu, select Open.
3 From the Files of Type drop-down list, select AFP Overlay Object (*.ove; *.ovl ;
O1*)
Selecting any format other than EFR displays the Edit Property Settings and Restore
Default Settings buttons.
Selecting AFP Overlay Object (*.ove; *.ovl;O1*) in the Files of T ype drop-down list.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 25
4 In the left pane, click Elixir.
The Elixir icon automatically locates the default directory for AFP forms from the
open profile.
The path will automatically update to the specified profile’s directory for the
selected Files of type if the Elixir icon is selected in the left pane of the dialog. For
example, the default profile lists drive:\Elixir\Forms\Afp as the directory for AFP
forms. You can also open a form from a different location by browsing for the
desired path in the Look in drop-down list.
5 Click Edit Property Settings.
The AFPDS dialog displays. Properties set in this dialog determine how a form is
read when a file is opened in DesignPro Form Editor.
The AFPDS input property dialog displays.
26 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
For information on all the options available in the input (parser) property
dialog(s), refer to the DesignPro Tools Online Help.
To open the Online Help, click available on the top right of an open dialog.
6 Click OK to close the dialog.
7 Select an OVE resource and click Open.
The selected form opens in the DesignPro Form Editor. If the form does not open
properly and messages display in the Messages window, you will need to close the
file, review and set the appropriate property settings carefully and then reopen the
form.
Properties set at the time of opening a file are not saved for future use. These
properties are set at the document level and are not retained once the open
process is completed. To set the required properties as default, select Tools,
Application Format Setting, Input Formats and the required input format
from the application menu. These properties are set at the application level and
are retained by the system. You are not required to set the properties each time
you open a file.
To access output property pages when saving a resource to a target format:
1 Select File, Save as from the menu.
2 From the Save as drop-down list, select AFP Overlay Object (*.ove;O1*).
Selecting any format other than EFR displays the Edit Property Settings and Restore
Default Settings buttons.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 27
3 In the left pane, click Elixir.
The Elixir icon automatically locates the default directory for AFP forms from the
open profile.
Selecting AFP Overlay Object (*.ove;O1*) in the Save as drop-down list.
4 Click Edit Property Settings.
28 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
The AFPDS dialog displays Properties set in this dialog affect how the form is saved
to the target format.
The AFPDS output property dialog displays.
For information on all the options available in the output (converter) property
dialog(s), refer to the DesignPro Tools Online Help.
To open the Online Help, click available on the top right of an open dialog.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 29
5 Click OK to close the dialog.
6 Name the output file and click Save.
The form saves in the selected format. If error messages display after saving the
form, resave the file after reviewing and setting the appropriate property settings
carefully.
Properties set at the time of saving a file are not saved for future use. These
properties are set at the document level and are not retained once the save
process is completed. To set the required properties as default, select Tools,
Application Format Setting, Output Formats and the required output
format from the application menu. These properties are set at the application
level and are retained by the system. You are not required to set the properties
each time you save a file.
Raster vs. Vector Objects
DesignPro Tools Professional and AFP enable you to convert objects placed on a form to
either raster or vector objects.
Raster objects consists of a pattern of individual dots, called pixels, arranged in a grid. Each
pixel has a specific location and color. Raster images display jagged edges when magnified on
screen or printed at a large magnification. Raster objects use a simple dot-based fo rmat, which
is easier for a printer to process. AFP high-speed laser printers are fast because they use very
simple resources. The simpler the format, the faster the printer can print.
Vector objects are defined geometrically using a formula. V ector graphics do not lose clarity or
detail when scaled to any size or printed at any resolution. Vector objects take valuable
computing time to create, since each font must be scal ed as it is used. This slo ws printers when
printing.
30 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
To specify objects as either vector or raster: select Tools, Application Format Setting,
Output Formats and AFPDS from the application menu. From the dialog that displays,
select the Page Objects category. You can select from the following options:
Use GOCA graphics (do not rasterize): Uses GOCA graphics objects for images
in a form, FormDef, or PageDef. The objects are treated as a vector object. AFP
architecture processes GOCA objects efficiently, and the quality is very high in the
printed output.
• Draw area borders separately: Causes the interior of an object and the border
lines to be drawn as two separate raster images. For example, for a shaded box,
the interior shade would be drawn as one single borderless shape, and the outline
would be drawn as another shape with no interior. When a form is re-opened, the
object interior and border are treated as two separate objects.
All rasterize to image under Overlapping Objects (with unsupported mixing
mode): Rasterizes overlapping objects into images. The AFP format only supports
the Source mixing mode; therefore, overlapping objects in the overlay need to be
rasterized into images.
For information on all the options available in the output (converter) property
dialog(s), refer to the DesignPro Tools Online Help.
To open the Online Help, click available on the top right of an open dialog.
Understanding Workflows
In this section, two standard workflows for form development are outlined for both Elixir
Application Suite and DesignPro Tools. The first workflow compares creating a new form.
The second workflow compares modifying an existing form.
Workflow 1: Creating a new form with new resources
Elixir Application Suite DesignPro Tools
Download and/or place all resources for
the form (fonts and images) in the
appropriate Elixir standard directory
structure.
Convert original image (BMP , PCX, TIFF ,
or page segment) to the Elixir LP3 format.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 31
Download and/or place all resources for
the form (fonts and images) in the
appropriate directory structure, as defined
by the working profile (customizable).
Use BMP, PCX, TIFF, JPG, PNG, or AFP
page segment formats directly on the form
in the DesignPro Form Editor or
Convert original image to the Elixir LP3
format.
Elixir Application Suite DesignPro Tools
Use Windows outline fonts (Adobe Type
1 or True Type) or
Convert Windows or AFP fonts to the
Elixir HDR format.
Create form in the ELX format. Create form in the EFR or ELX format or
Convert images to page segments. Save form to the AFP format (images can
Convert fonts to AFP fonts. Save form to the AFP format (fonts can be
Convert form to AFP form, Source, or
Object format.
Upload to host. Upload to host.
Use AFP raster or Windows outline fonts
(Adobe Type 1 or True Type) or
Convert Windows or AFP fonts to the
Elixir HDR format.
Create form in the OVE or OGL format.
be saved to the AFP format at the same
time or separately).
saved to the AFP format at the same time
or separately).
Save form to the AFP format (fonts and
images can be saved to the AFP format at
the same time or separately).
As you can see, the basic workflow is the same with some additional options and
increased flexibility provided in DesignPro Tools. Also, the need to separately convert
before and after form creation has been eliminated. You can work directly with AFP
resources. If you prefer the flexibility and functionality supported by the Elixir format,
you can still keep the source in Elixir, then save to the AFP format directly in the
DesignPro Form Editor.
For instructions on accomplishing each of these workflow steps, reference DesignPro
Tools Online Help.
32 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Workflow 2: Editing an existing form
Elixir Application
Suite
Download and place all
resources (form, fonts and
images) in the appropriate
Elixir standard directory
structure.
Convert original image
(BMP, PCX, TIFF, or page
segment) to the Elixir LP3
format.
Convert AFP fonts to the
Elixir HDR format.
Convert AFP form to the
Elixir ELX format.
Modify form and save as
ELX.
Convert images to page
segments.
Convert fonts to AFP fonts. Save form to the AFP format
Convert form to AFP form,
Source, or Object format.
Upload to host. Upload to host. Upload to host.
DesignPro Tools, using
Elixir as the source
format
Download and place all
resources (form, fonts, and
images) in the appropriate
directory structure, as defined by
the working profile (Profile can
be customized).
Convert original image to the
Elixir LP3 format.
Convert AFP fonts to the Elixir
HDR format.
Convert AFP form to the Elixir
EFR or ELX format.
Modify form and save as EFR or
ELX.
Save form to the AFP format
(images can be saved to AFP
format at the same time or
separately).
(fonts can be saved to AFP
format at the same time or
separately).
Save form to the AFP format
(fonts and images can be saved
to AFP format at the same time
or separately).
DesignPro Tools,
using native
resources only
Download and place all
resources (form, fonts, and
images) in the appropriate
directory structure, as
defined by the working
profile (Profile can be
customized).
Use AFP page segment
directly on the form in the
DesignPro Form Editor.
Use AFP raster fonts directly
on the form in the DesignPro
Form Editor.
Use AFP form directly in the
DesignPro Form Editor.
Modify form and save as
OVE or OGL (fonts and
images can be re-saved to
AFP format if necessary).
No conversion required.
No conversion required.
No conversion required.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 33
Again, the basic workflow is the same with additional options and increased flexibility in
DesignPro Tools. Working with native resources is a great benefit, especially when there
are only slight modifications to be made to a form in production: no pre or postconversion step is necessary.
See “Resource Migration” on page 34 for an in-depth discussion on whether to
use Elixir or native resources. The tables above are provided to show a typical
workflow using Elixir and native resources in DesignPro Tools, as opposed to
Elixir Application Suite.
Resource Migration
When upgrading to DesignPro Tools, one of your main concerns may be all of your
existing resources: when and how should you migrate them to DesignPro T ools?
Initially, it is recommended that you run both systems in parallel while you learn the new
workflows and tools. Existing resources can be opened in DesignPro Tools, so you can
update the required resources by saving them into the new format.
It is recommended that you backup your resources before you start using them in
DesignPro Tools. Once resources are modified in DesignPro Tools, they may not
open correctly in Elixir Application Suite.
One of the major improvements introduced in DesignPro Tools is its ability to use native
resources without pre or post-conversion steps. You can choose to use all native, all Elixir,
or a combination of both types of resources.
Native refers to an environment’s own format. AFP resources, such as OVE or
OGL forms, AFP fonts, and Page Segments are native resources.
All current Elixir Application Suite print resources are in Elixir legacy formats, which
include ELX, LP3, HDR, and AppBuilder database files. The DesignPro Tools editors
support the loading and editing of all these legacy formats. There are, however, some
important changes to note:
34 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Elixir Form legacy resources
DesignPro Tools can open all ELX files created in previous Elixir Application Suite
versions.
Note that the DesignPro Form Editor creates a new file type with an EFR extension.
Forms can be saved to the legacy ELX format for use in Elixir applications that
cannot use the EFR files, such as Opus. ELX files can also be reopened in Elixir
Application Suite, although objects that are not supported by Elixir Application Suite
will be ignored.
Visual PPFA resources
Visual PPFA imports PageDefs and FormDefs from AppBuilder 4.10 or later
versions. If you are migrating to Visual PPFA from AppBuilder, and you want to
import PageDefs and FormDefs from AppBuilder, you must upgrade to AppBuilder
4.10. Once you have upgraded to AppBuilder 4.10, your files are ready for importing
into Visual PPFA. Step by step instructions are provided in “Migrating: Visual
PPFA” on page 48.
Visual PPFA creates new Elixir formats for PageDefs and FormDefs. Each resource
exists as an individual file. PageDefs are identified with an EPD extension and
FormDefs with an EFD extension. AppBuilder cannot read the DesignPro Tools
PageDef and FormDef formats.
Previous EAS AFP systems
Opening or importing output resources created by DesignPro T ools and Visual PPF A
in previous EAS systems is not recommended, even when the file extensions have
not changed. This includes source and compiled forms, compiled PageDefs and
FormDefs, fonts, and page segments created or compiled in one of the DesignPro
Tools applications. This is due to improvements and updates made to the AFP
architecture.
DesignPro Tools supports native, legacy, and its own resource formats. Even with the
ability to use native resources, you may consider keeping your source files in the Elixir
format. Some advantages of the Elixir format:
Files can be used for multiple environments. If your original file is in Elixir format, it
can be modified and then saved to AFP, PCL, PDF and other print formats.
DesignPro Form Editor supports many features not available in native formats. For
example, AFP forms place each line of text individually . The Elixir format can keep
text blocks as paragraphs, making them easier to edit.
Visual PPFA PageDefs and FormDefs sav ed in Elixir Native format support many
features not available in PPFA source. For example, names for records, fields, and
other tree objects are not retained and interpreted as comments in PPF A source. Also,
internal comments and environmental settings, such as Template forms, are only
saved in the Elixir format.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 35
Once you become accustomed to the DesignPro Tools environment, and are ready to stop
using Elixir Application Suite, you have two choices:
Continue to migrate resources one-by-one, as modifications are needed.
Migrate all resources at once by converting them in the Conversions dialog of
DesignPro Manager.
The Conversions dialog can convert many files to single or multiple output types in
one session. You can open the Conversions dialog by dragging and dropping files on
the Converters icon in the Applications tab in the Manager.
A sample batch conversion using the Conversions dialog.
For instructions on converting resources, reference the DesignPro Tools Manager
for AFP User Guide.
36 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Migrating: Directory Structure
When migrating, you will want to verify that your profiles are set up correctly in the
DesignPro Manager. You should check profiles before beginning any work in DesignPro
Tools.
A profile holds all of the information that was contained by the System.ini file in Elixir
Application Suite. A default profile is created and stored in the SystemData.ini file, based
on the information provided during installation, when DesignPro Tools is installed. This
file establishes the basic operating environment and is located at drive:\Documents and
Settings\Current User\Application Data\Elixir Technologies\Profiles.
The profile also includes the directory structure used to identify , read, and write resources.
When you load a profile in DesignPro Manager, you can verify that the directory structure
is correct by viewing your virtual folders. Virtual folders are pointers to physical folders
on your drive or network.
For more information about virtual folders and to learn how to map new folders
and unmap existing folders, refer to Chapter 3: Configuration in the DesignPro
Tools for AFP Getting Started Guide.
The following sections provide a comparison between the Elixir Application Suite and
DesignPro Tools directory structure based on the default profile. Many of the old
directories are no longer mapped because the files formats they previously contained are
either obsolete or are no longer supported.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 37
Documents
In the default profile, the documents are stored under the Documents folder located at
drive:\Elixir\Docs in DesignPro Tools. The image below provides a comparison of the
Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro Tools directory structure for documents. The input
and output folders for each resource type have been eliminated and a single folder for each
type is used.
Comparison of the “Docs” directory structure in Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro
Tools.
38 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Fonts
In the default profile, fonts are placed under the fonts folder located at drive:\Elixir\Fonts
in DesignPro Tools. The image below provides a comparison of the Elixir Application
Suite and DesignPro Tools directory structure for fonts. The input and output folders for
each resource type have been eliminated and a single folder for each type is used.
Comparison of the “Fonts” directory structure in Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro
Tools.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 39
Forms Folder
In the default profile, the forms are placed in the forms folder located at
drive:\Elixir\Forms in DesignPro Tools. The image below provides a comparison of the
Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro Tools directory structure for forms. The input and
output folders for each resource type have been eliminated and a single folder for each
type is used.
Comparison of the “Forms” directory structure in Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro
Tools.
40 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Graphics Folder
In the default profile, the graphics are stored under the graphics folder located at
drive:\Elixir\Graphics in DesignPro Tools. The image below provides a comparison of the
Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro Tools directory structure for graphics. The input
and output folders for each resource type have been eliminated and a single folder for each
type is used.
Comparison of the “Pics” directory structure in Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro
Tools.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 41
Jobs Folder
In the default profile, the jobs are stored under the jobs folder located at drive:\Elixir\Jobs
in DesignPro Tools. The image below provides a comparison of the Elixir Application
Suite and DesignPro Tools directory structure for jobs. The input and output folders for
each resource type have been eliminated and a single folder for each type is used.
Comparison of the “Jobs” directory structure in Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro
Tools.
Migrating: Forms
Once the profiles are verified, you can begin migrating your resources. DesignPro Tools
does not require conversion of resources for the purpose of migration. You can simply
open your existing resources in DesignPro Tools applications. If you have already used the
Converter in DesignPro Manager to convert your forms, you can open them in DesignPro
Form Editor and start editing them.
To open a form:
1 From the Start menu, choo se Programs, Elixir Applications, DesignPro Tools,
DesignPro Form Editor.
2 From the File menu, select Open.
42 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
3 From the Files of Type drop-down list, select your resource type.
Existing Elixir resources use the ELX file extension. The Edit Property Settings and
Restore Default Settings buttons display when you select a format other than EFR.
4 Browse to select a form.
ELX forms are located at drive:\Elixir\Forms\Elixir.
5 Click Edit Property Settings.
The properties dialog displays for the selected resource type. Properties set in this
dialog affect how a form is read when opening the file in th e Design Pro For m Edit or.
6 Set the appropriate settings for your form and click OK to close the dialog.
7 Click Open.
The selected form opens in the DesignPro Form Editor. If there are issues when
opening the form, you will need to close the file, then review and set the appropriate
property settings carefully before reopening the form.
For information on all the options available in the input (parser) property
dialog(s), refer to the DesignPro Tools Online Help.
To open the Online Help, click available on the top right of an open dialog.
The Elixir EFR format provides a single format that saves to virtually all print and
presentation formats, including AFP, PostScript, PCL, and PDF. The ability to have a
common file as the source for all environments improves the overall efficiency for
resource management and production.
To save the form as an EFR:
1 From the File menu, select Save as.
2 From the Save as drop-down list, select Elixir Form (*.efr).
3 Name the file and click Save.
Elixir legacy ELX files created in Elixir Application Suite can be opened directly into
DesignPro Form Editor without any special preparation. It is important that the paths to
the Elixir legacy fonts and images are specified correctly so that DesignPro Tools can
locate the resources.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 43
Due to limitations in the ELX format, certain AFP page objects, when converted from
AFP to Elixir in Elixir Application Suite, are rasterized as images and stored in a special
folder. The path to this folder is read during DesignPro Tools installation, if the option is
selected to use Elixir Application Suite path settings, and set in the default profile. If the
path is not set correctly, it can be set by modifying the
SYSTEM_GENIMAGE_FILEPATH variable in the profile. This folder is typically
drive:\Elixir\Pics\Genimage.
Editing profiles is an advanced topic and is not covered in this guide. For more
information on profiles, refer to the DesignPro Tools Manager for AFP User Guide.
Font Lists
DesignPro Tools now provides support for directly importing Elixir Application Suite
external font list files. P2lfonts.lst files created in Elixir Application Suite can now be
loaded in DesignPro Tools.
To import a font list as LST:
1 Open a form in the DesignPro Form Editor.
2 From the File menu, select Import, Font List.
The Open dialog displays.
3 Select LST Files (*.lst) from the Files of Type.
4 Select the required font file and click Open.
The file opens in DesignPro Form Editor.
DesignPro Tools supports a new font list format for importing and exporting font lists
during form creation. The new font list is saved in an external XML file. The XML file
can be archived or printed for easy reference, and imported when creating new forms.
44 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
T o export a font list as XML:
1 Open a form in the DesignPro Form Editor.
2 From the File menu, select Export, Font List.
The Save as dialog displays.
Saving a font list as an XML file.
3 Name the font list and click Save.
The file is saved in XML format.
The exported XML font list cannot be opened in the Elixir Application Suite
Form Editor.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 45
To import an XML font list in DesignPro Form Editor:
1 From the File menu, select Import, Font List.
The Open dialog displays.
Loading an XML font list file in DesignPro Form Editor.
2 Select a Font List and click Open.
The font list loads in the open form.
Ta g s
Tag support is available in DesignPro Tools. The tags in ELX forms are recognized in
DesignPro Form Editor. The tag structure can be viewed in the Tag Structure tab of the
Manage window.
You cannot save tag commands to a target format unless you have purchased a
tagging option (sold separately from DesignPro Tools).
46 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Proof Printing
The Elixir Application Suite requirement for HP soft fonts for proof printing no longer
applies.
Color Palettes and Shade Patterns
DesignPro Tools includes the same color palettes and shade patterns provided with Elixir
Application Suite therefore, existing Elixir legacy forms using these palettes and patterns
can be used in DesignPro Tools.
Migrating: Fonts
Fonts can be migrated by opening an existing font and then saving it in DesignPro Tools.
You can also use Elixir legacy fonts saved in Elixir Application Suite without
modification in the DesignPro Tools editors. This includes both generic Elixir fonts and all
AFP components. Remember that both Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro Tools use
the same extension for fonts, so it is possible to overwrite existing fonts.
The font naming convention has changed in DesignPro Tools for half-point font
sizes. The new naming convention does not start using the alphabet with a point
size of 1. This means that a font created with DesignPro Tools may have the same
name as an existing font, but would be a larger point size. If you use half-point
font sizes, you may wish to create a virtual folder specifically for DesignPro Tools
fonts.
Migrating: Images
You can use Elixir legacy images saved in Elixir Application Suite in the DesignPro Tools
editors without modification. DesignPro Tools supports other image formats, such as JPG,
BMP, PNG, PCX, and TIFF, which do not need to be converted before they can be used in
the DesignPro Tools editors.
Remember that both Elixir Application Suite and DesignPro Tools use the same
extension for images, so it is possible that existing images might be overwritten.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 47
Migrating: Visual PPFA
Existing AppBuilder FormDefs and PageDefs can be migrated to Visual PPFA. There are
two methods to import existing PageDefs and FormDefs in Visual PPFA.
AppBuilder resources cannot be converted using the Conversions dialog into
the DesignPro Tools format. Each PageDef and FormDef must be opened and
saved in Visual PPFA to migrate these resources.
I. Importing PageDefs and FormDefs using the Elixir AppBuilder Document.dbf file
in DesignPro Visual PPFA:
1 From the Start menu, choo se Programs, Elixir Applications, DesignPro Tools,
DesignPro Visual PPFA.
DesignPro Visual PPFA opens.
2 From the File menu, select Open.
The Open dialog displays.
3 From the Files of Type drop-down list, select Elixir AppBui lder 4.xx
(Document.dbf).
In order to migrate AppBuilder PageDef and FormDef resources, you must have
AppBuilder version 4.10 or higher installed.
4 Browse to drive:\Elixir\Jobs\Elixir and select required database document.
48 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
This database stores all FormDef and PageDef information for Elixir AppBuilder.
Selecting the AppBuilder database.
The location of the AppBuilder database should be specified in the active profile.
You can map additional virtual folders to a profile in the DesignPro Manager.
5 Click Open.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 49
Visual PPFA prompts you to convert the old version of the database to the new
format.
You are prompted to convert an older version to the new format.
6 Click Yes.
7 Select PageDef for Database.
All of the PageDefs in your AppBuilder database display. You can toggle back and
forth between FormDefs and PageDefs, but can only open one resource type at a
time.
Selecting a Page Definition to open in Visual PPFA.
8 Select a PageDef from the list and click OK.
The PageDef opens in Visual PPFA.
50 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
9 From the File menu, select Save as, PageDef from the menu.
10 In the Save as drop-down list, select Elixir PageDef (*.epd).
The process for opening FormDefs is the same as for opening PageDefs.
FormDefs are saved in Elixir FormDef (EDF) format.
11 Name the new resource and click Save.
You have successfully migrated a PageDef.
II. Importing PageDefs and FormDefs individually:
1 Open Elixir AppBuilder for AFP from Elixir Desktop.
2 From the File menu, select PageDef, Load PageDef.
The Load PageDef dialog displays.
3 Select the required PageDef from the available list and click OK.
The selected PageDef loads in the AppBuilder Design Area
Follow the above-mentioned steps to load the required FormDef.
To export PageDefs and FormDefs using El ixir AppBuilder for AFP:
1 From the File menu, select Convert, Export.
The Export Options dialog displays.
2 Choose the appropriate options for your print environment.
PageDef and FormDef can be saved in source (PPFA), as well as object (AFPDS)
formats.
3 Specify the required names for the PageDef and FormDef.
4 Click OK.
If you are using the default Elixir folders, the PageDefs and FormDefs will be
exported to drive:\Elixir\Jobs\Afpout folder.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 51
To import the exported files in DesignPro Visual PPFA:
1 Open DesignPro Visual PPFA.
2 From the File menu, select Open.
3 Browse to find the exported PageDef.
4 Select the required PageDef and click Open.
5 Select Project, Load FormDef from the menu to open the required FormDef.
6 Browse for the FormDef and click Open.
7 After editing, select File, Save and save the PageDef and FormDef one by one. Now,
you have imported your Appbuilder application in Visual PPFA.
You need to make sure that the resources used in PageDefs and FormDefs
exported from the Elixir AppBuilder for AFP are copied to the correct DesignPro
Tools directory. Otherwise, error messages for missing resources will display in
the Messages window. You can use DesignPro Manager to place the resources in
the correct folders.
File Settings
Each DesignPro Tools application offers both default property settings for resources and a
method to temporarily override the defaults if needed for a specific application. You can
change the default settings by selecting Tools, Application Format Setting and then
choosing the required Input or Output format from the applications menu. To temporarily
override these settings, click on the Edit Property Settings button in the Open dialog and
make the required changes. Once you have saved the resource, the input or output
properties revert back to their default settings.
For information on all the options available in the input (parser) and output
(converter) property dialog(s), refer to the DesignPro Tools Online Help.
To open the Online Help, click available on the top right of an open dialog.
52 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Font and Segment Mapping
Custom mappings for AFP are handled in the Elixir Resource Map. Any default mappings
from EAS must be manually transferred to the Resource Map.
Settings for OGL MVS DDNAME or VM FILETYPE, defined in Default.fam in EAS, are
defined in the property pages for OGL output in DesignPro Tools.
The same settings for images, defined in drive:\Elixir\Pics\Maps\Default.sam in EAS, are
also defined in the OGL output property pages in DesignPro Tools.
Migrating: Resource Mapping
In Elixir Application Suite, resource mapping is accomplished using a Psfont.map or a
Default.fam file. All resource mapping for DesignPro Tools is located in the Elixir
Resource Map. Any previous mappings within Elixir Application Suite mapping files
need to be defined within the Resource Map.
1 From the DesignPro Manager, DesignPro Form Editor or Visual PPFA application
menu, select Tools, Resource Map.
The Resource Map opens.
The default mapping within the Resource Map.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 53
2 Click next to the Fonts node.
The available font types display.
3 Select the font type for the Source Font column.
The Source Font types include Raster, Windows, Embedded outline, PCL and AFP.
4 Right-click the table on the right side of the Mappings window and select Add from
the pop-up menu.
The Font Mapping dialog displays.
5 If mapping an Elixir or Windows font, click Font Selection in the Source category.
The Open dialog displays.
6 Select a font and click OK.
7 Select the Targets category and select the output target types.
Each output target type selected displays as a sub-category under the main Targets
category.
8 Select the output type sub-category and set the appropriate settings or choose a
Target font.
9 Click Apply and OK.
The new mapping adds to the Resource Map.
For more information on Font Mapping, refer to the DesignPro Tools Manager for
AFP User Guide.
54 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Custom Tools and Processes
Elixir Application Suite includes many tools, processes, and stand-alone utilities. Many of
these were developed to work specifically with the Elixir legacy ELX format and are tied
to the Elixir Application Suite directory structure. Shortcuts for the most commonly used
tools and utilities are provided in the DesignPro Manager. New utilities that duplicate the
functionality of some Elixir Application Suite utilities will be created for future DesignPro
Tools releases.
Dispatcher and User Tools
The Elixir Application Suite Desktop Dispatcher and User Tools provide shortcuts that
open external programs, BAT files, or DOS operations. These functions are typically
opened by dragging and dropping a resource onto the shortcut icon.
DesignPro Tools provides equivalent functionality in the Tools & Utilities tab in the
Manager. Shortcuts are set up using a wizard. Open the associated utility or application by
either double-clicking on a tool icon or dragging and dropping a file onto an icon.
Tr an s fo rm e r
The Transformer is not completely supported in this release of DesignPro Tools. The
Elixir Application Suite Desktop Transformer does provide a series of functions that can
be performed against Elixir forms and images. Full support will be available in a future
release of DesignPro Tools.
Loader
The Elixir Application Suite Desktop Loader is a simple interface for transferring files to
and from an IBM host. The Desktop provides the ability to open a DOS version of a thirdparty terminal emulation package’s file transfer program, which communicates with the
IND$FILE host program.
No equivalent to the Loader is provided in DesignPro Tools. This is due to the many easyto-use Windows-based terminal emulation programs available and host support for
common file transfer protocols like FTP.
Proof Printing
The proof print process no longer requires special PCL fonts in this release of DesignPro
Tools.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 55
Conversion from Microsoft Windows and PDF File Formats
Elixir PrintDriver Pro uses the Windows print function to convert Windows-based and
PDF documents to Elixir or target printer format forms. It also provides several options for
handling fonts and images. True Type and Adobe fonts can be converted to either AFP
format fonts; document images can be converted to page segment format. Font and image
conversions can be performed simultaneousl y during the form conversion. Files converted
using Elixir PrintDriver Pro can be edited in the DesignPro Form Editor.
Proofing Variable Data Applications
Elixir Viewer provided with DesignPro T ools is an improved version of the previous Elixir
Application Suite Elixir Viewer. Elixir Viewer provides an on-screen viewing and testprinting of documents and forms to check object and text placement before final printing.
You can also run data proofing with sample data to preview output from Visual PPFA.
Data proofing combines Pagedefs, Formdefs, data, and other resources to generate an
instant preview of the final job, therefore, eliminating the need to run proofing on
production printers and saving valuable time.
Supported formats:
AFP (MO:DCA) Document (AFP)
AFP Overlay Object (OVE;01)
AFP Overlay Source (OGL)
Elixir DAT files (DAT)
Elixir Document (EDF)
Elixir Form (EFR)
Elixir GDF (GDF), Elixir Legacy Form (ELX)
Elixir PrintDriver Document (EPL)
Elixir PrintDriver Form (EP)
Postscript (PS), Windows EMF (EMF)
Elixir Viewer uses the same configuration and conversion capabilities as Elixir input
parsers to display pages on-the-fly. Elixir setup files (EPM) configured using the Elixir
Converters can be opened in Elixir Viewer to set up the properties for input formats. For
more information on Elixir Viewer, refer to the Elixir Viewer Online Help.
56 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Automated Processing
DesignPro Tools provides Elixir Scout Manager for automating various processes. Elixir
Scout is an integrated system service that watches directories for a file or an event. When
a specified file is present or an event occurs, Scout can perform a user specified action.
These actions can include launching an executable (EXE or COM), running a batch file
(BAT or CMD), or selecting a process (DLL).
Elixir Scout Manager runs in the background as a Windows service, providing eventtriggered directory "watch" capabilities. It is used to configure Scout and provide a UI
window for operations. For more information, refer to the Elixir Scout Manager Online
Help.
Chapter 2: Migration from Elixir Application Suite to DesignPro Tools 57
58 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
Index
A
AFP
fonts 43, 47
AFPDS dialog
AFPDS Tree
description 7
AppBuilder
database
ASCII
Automated Processing 57
automation 21
26
49
23
B
barcodes 22
BAT files 55
BCOCA 22
22
BMP
C
CMYK 24
colors
palettes, migrating
configuration
migrating 14, 20
conventions
Conversions dialog
converting
customer support
8
symbolic 9
typographic 8
24, 36
setting up parameters 24
10
D
data
tags 46
48
DBF
DDNAME 53
DEFAULT.FAM 53
DesignPro Font Editor
description
DesignPro Form Editor
6
47
description
opening 25
DesignPro Graphics Editor
description
DesignPro Manager
description 6
DesignPro Tools
AFPDS Tree See AFPDS Tree
applications
Editors 6
Elixir PrintDriver Pro 7
Font Editor See DesignPro Font Editor
Form Editor See DesignPro Form Editor
Graphics Editor See DesignPro Graphics Editor
introduction
Manager See DesignPro Manager
Scout See Elixir Scout
Utilities
Viewer See Elixir Viewer
Visual PPFA See DesignPro Visual PPFA
DesignPro Visual PPFA
description
dialogs
AFPDS
Conversions 24, 36
Export Options 51
Font Mapping
Load PageDef 51
Open 44, 48, 54
Profile Selection
Save As 45
directory structure
Elixir Application Suite
migrating 37
Dispatcher 55
document.dbf
documentation
online 12
Documents folder
DocuMerge users, font lists 44
DOS operations 55
6
6
6
6
6
6
26, 29
54
19
18
48
38
Index 59
E
EAS Loader 55
EBCDIC 23
EFD 35
Elixir
PageDef
PrintDriver Pro 7
Resource Map
resources, advantages 35
Scout 7
tags
Viewer 7
Elixir Application Suite
Desktop settings
directory structure 18
Loader 55
migrating FormDefs
migrating PageDefs 35
processes 55
utilities
Elixir Scout
automate processes 21, 57
description
Elixir Viewer 21, 22, 23, 56
Elixir web site
ELX 22, 34, 43, 55
environments
multiple
EPD 35, 51
Export Options dialog 51
extensions
AFP
BAT 55
DAT
DBF 48
EDF 56
EFD
EFR 56
ELX 34, 43, 55, 56
EMF
EP 56
EPD 35, 51
EPL
HDR 34
LP3 34
51
53
46
20
35
55
7
11
35
56
56
35
56
56
35, 56
OGL
56
OVE
F
Feature Set Comparison 20
folder structure 21
Font barcode
Font Editor See DesignPro Font Editor
font lists
Font Mapping dialog 54
fonts
Fonts folder
Form Editor See also DesignPro Form Editor
FormDefs
forms
Forms folder
FTP 55
22
migrating
AFP fonts
DEFAULT.FAM 53
half point sizes 47
HP soft fonts
mapping 53
migrating, concerns 47
migrating, font lists
naming conventions 47
PCL 55
44
47
47
44
39
created in EAS
importing AppBuilder FormDefs in Visual
PPFA
new file extension 35
font lists
font mapping 23
migrating 42
opening
save as EFR 43
tags 46
35
35
44
42
40
G
Graphics Editor See DesignPro Graphics Editor
Graphics folder
Grid 22
guides
related
41
8
60 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
H
HDR 34
help
context-sensitive
customer support 10
Elixir web site 11
online help
related guides 8
release notes 12
highlight color
HP soft fonts 47
12
12
22, 24
I
IBM
AFP standards
image formats 22
images
migrating concerns
input parameters 24
installing
before you install checklist
migrating 16
introduction
DesignPro Tools
6
47
6
J
Jobs folder 42
L
legacy Elixir resources 35
licensing, migrating
Load PageDef dialog 51
Loader 55
34
LP3
20
M
Manager See DesignPro Manager
migrating
color palettes
configuration 20
custom tools 55
Desktop settings
directory structure 37
Dispatcher 55
44, 47
fonts
forms 42
47
20
14
47
images
installing
licensing 20
Loader
profiles 37
resource mapping 53
resources
setup files 20
shading patterns 47
Transformer
user tools 55
utilities 55
workflows
MVS hosts 53
16
55
34
55
31
N
native resources 34
23
N-UP
O
OCA 24
OGL 53
Open dialog
opening
Opus 35
output parameters
44, 48, 54
DesignPro Form Editor 25
Elixir Resource Map
forms 42
53
24
P
page segments
created in EAS 35
mapping
PageDefs
created in EAS 35
DesignPro Tools
importing AppBuilder PageDefs in Visual
new file extension
record format support 23
template overlays 35
55
PCL
PCX 22
PPFA
comments
53
21, 23
PPFA 35
35
35
Index 61
PrintDriver See Elixir PrintDriver Pro
printing
55
PCL
proof 55
printstream display
Profile Selection dialog 19
profiles
migrating concerns
multiple 19
selecting 19
proof printing
PSFONT.MAP 53
7
37
47, 55
R
related guides 8
release notes
resource manager 23
Resource Map 53
resources
Resources window
RGB 24
RTF
12
advantages to using Elixir formats
directory structure 18
Elixir Application Suite
legacy 35
mapping 53
migrating
native 34
source files
Visual PPFA 35
Documents
Fonts 39
Forms 40
Graphics
Jobs 42
34
35
38
41
35
22, 23
S
Save As dialog 45
saving
forms in EFR format
Scout See Elixir Scout
setting
input parameters
output parameters 24
setup files 20
43
24
35
shading patterns, migrating 47
shortcuts
support 10
system.ini 37
55
T
tags 46
template overlays 35
terminal emulation programs 55
22
TIF
training 11
Transformer 55
22
TXT
Typographic Conventions 8
U
user tools 55
utilities
Dispatcher
Elixir Application Suite 55
Loader
Transformer 55
user tools 55
55
55
V
Viewer See Elixir Viewer
viewing AFPDS files 7
virtual folders
Documents
Fonts 39
Forms
Graphics 41
Jobs 42
Visual PPFA
importing Elixir FormDefs
importing Elixir PageDefs 35
resources
Visual PPFA See also DesignPro Visual PPFA
VM 53
38
40
35
35
W
workflows
creating a form 31
editing a form 33
62 DesignPro Tools® for AFP Migration Guide
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