In this Issue:
* EZ-Pix v6.0 Released
* Program Tips
* Removing yourself from this List


Dear Xequte Software User,

Firstly, thank you to everyone who expressed their kind wishes on the birth of my twins :-)

They are now going on three months and thankfully often sleep through the night, though very rarely do they both decide to do this on the same night ;-)

Anyway, back to software, which is - after all - what this newsletter is about, we have just released a new version of EZ-Pix, our Image Viewing Software. 

A common question I am asked (after, "How do you ever get any work done with twins?") is why offer image viewing software in a world of multimedia?  Two words: Speed and Simplicity.

By limiting the features within EZ-Pix to the core functions of interest to image users, and leaving out all of code necessary for multimedia support, EZ-Pix is blazingly fast to load and run, and its interface is uncomplicated and quick to learn.

We have kept these tenets in mind in the release of this new version.  For further details, please see below.

We are presently working on an updated release of Smart Pix Manager (free upgrade to purchasers after mid 2002) and are keen to hear from users who want improved EXIF support (these are the text fields in images taken on digital cameras).  In particular, let us know how you think the EXIF data should be used and which fields you find useful.  Please e-mail us with your comments.


Regards

Nigel Cross
Xequte Software
www.xequte.com




* EZ-PIX V6.0 RELEASED

In keeping with our stated policy for EZ-Pix of Speed and Simplicity, we have ensured that the new release enhances EZ-Pix without adding any unnecessary bloat or complexity.

Here is the top ten list of new features in EZ-Pix v6.0:

1. All new interface featuring XP Style graphics (still works on all windows versions)
2. Can now support displayed files by name, date, size, etc.
3. New Camera/Scanner acquisition wizard with support for USB cameras
4. Improved performance with faster thumbnail display
5. Can now send images to Power Print for printing
6. Can now export image lists and descriptions to Diji Album
7. Can now optionally display large size buttons
8. Easier method for registering the software and extending the trial period
9. Improved wallpaper method works better with Active Desktop
10. Now shares thumbnail cache with other Xequte products (such as Diji Album)


* EZ-PIX V6.0 UPGRADE INFORMATION

Version 6.0 is a free upgrade to all users who purchased a license or upgrade of EZ-Pix after May 15, 2002. If you are eligible for a free upgrade a new key will have been sent to the e-mail address you supplied when ordering.

Other registered Diji Album users can upgrade for $13.50 by visiting:

http://www.xequte.com/ezpix/upgrade.html


* DOWNLOADING EZ-PIX V6.0

Evaluation copies of EZ-Pix can be downloaded from:

http://www.xequte.com/ezpix/



* PROGRAM TIPS

* Smart Pix Manager: Rapid Addition of Keywords to your Files

One of the main features that draws users to Smart Pix is keyword searching, but if the process of adding the keywords was too laborious what use would it be?  Fortunately Smart Pix offers a number features to speed up the process:
- Default keywords for Folders: If you generally categorize your files into different folders, then you should specify (under Database>Settings and Source Folders) that whenever files from those folders are added to your database then they are automatically given certain keywords
- Generation of keywords from the folder or file name: If your folders or files are descriptively named then you can set Smart Pix to create keywords from the words they contain (setting under File|Options, Database), e.g. a file named "Red Racing Porsche.jpg" would automatically receive the keywords, Red, Racing and Porsche
- Keyword Toolbar: For ultimate customization of your file keywords, use the Keyword Toolbar (View|Flyover Tools|Keyword Toolbar).  Just select your file(s) then double click the keywords you wish to add


* Diji Album: Adding your voice to Albums

Since v4.0, Diji Album allows you to add recordings to your album pages. Common uses are to give a vocal commentary to your images or add your children talking or singing.  To take advantage of this feature simply insert a microphone into your computer and select Insert|Sound|Record Now...


* EZ-Pix: New Button Styles

With version 6.0, EZ-Pix displays large XP style graphics by default, as they look better and their function is clearer.  However if you wish to reduce the screen real estate of your toolbar you can deselect the new setting (under File|Options) for Large Toolbar Images