Image Stacker Readme *****Introduction***** Image Stacker combines multiple images into a single image. It can be used to overcome one of the last remaining limitations of digital cameras compared to their film counterparts: their inability to take very long exposures. Image Stacker can also be used to reduce the appearance of "digital noise" in images created by digital cameras or scanners. Note: In addition to the standard graphical interface, Image Stacker also offers a command-line interface using the included ImgStack.exe command-line program. Both programs are distributed together and both offer exactly the same features. For the latest version of Image Stacker, check here: http://www.tawbaware.com/imgstack.htm *****Installation Instructions***** After unzipping the "zip" file, use the setup.exe program to install Image Stacker. *****Version Changes***** Note: Minor or cosmetic changes not listed. Version 2.10 (October 2010) Added dark-frame noise reduction frame to main screen. Supports drag-and-drop to enable dark-frame noise reduction. Fixed problem removing images from GUI Fixed problems when processing large numbers of images (up to 16000 images can now be loaded/processed). Version 2.01 (August 2010) Fixed problem loading JPEG images. Version 2.00 (August 2010) Complete rewrite of graphical interface using VB.NET. Please uninstall any older version of Image Stacker before installing this version. You will also need to re-register Image Stacker, after installation. The registration code you used for a prior version of Image Stacker is still valid. You do not need to aquire a new registration code. Added "darken" blending mode. Several small bug fixes and more elegant handling of alpha channel. Changed registration operation. Version 1.04 (July 2005). Bug fix in program registration logic. Version 1.03 (November 2002). Fixed bug that caused some BMP files to be written incorrectly. Version 1.02 (July 2002). Fixed minor bug where progress bar might not get updated correctly. Version 1.01 (July 2002). Added check to ensure dark-frame image has same dimensions as input images. Version 1.00 (June 2002). Initial Release *****Program Status***** Image Stacker is shareware, meaning you are expected to "register" it (i.e. pay a small fee for it) to purchase the program. While Image Stacker will operate without registration, it is limited to processing images with a maximum size of 640x480 pixels. You can register Image Stacker on-line via the Tawbaware Store: http://www.tawbaware.com/store.html *****Distribution Status***** You may freely redistribute Image Stacker as long as you make no modifications and this file is included. *****Troubleshooting Tips***** Documentation for Image Stacker is installed with the program. Use the "Help" menu item to view the documentation. You will need a web browser to view the documentation. Image Stacker requires msvcrt.dll to be installed on your computer. Early versions of Windows 95 did not include this file, but it may be freely downloaded from Microsoft's web site. Image Stacker should run on all recent versions of Windows (Win 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP). *****Credits***** Image Stacker utilitzes source code provided by the Independent JPEG Group and Sam Leffler. *****Disclaimer***** Your use of this software constitutes your agreement to the following terms: TawbaWare (http://www.tawbaware.com/) and the author take no responsibility for any damages caused by this program. Image Stacker is provided 'as is' without warranty of any kind. Use it at your own risk. I disclaim all warranties, either express or implied, including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall I be liable for any damages whatsoever including direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, loss of business profits or special damages. Whew! Use at your own risk and enjoy! Max Lyons maxlyons@tawbaware.com