7 replies to this topic

[SystemOverload]

Hi guys

I have limited experience with a few languages, and I want to create a 'Control Panel'. Something that you would activate with a 'hot key', it could launch programmes, display relevant information pulled from sources like your calendar etc displayed in seperate modules.

The main part is that I want to know is (A) what language would be most efficient and (B) easiest.

It would *NOT* be created inside a 'window', at least not to the user. And it would need to dynamically create mini 'panels' depending on what the user clicked or hovered over when the initial 'panel' was opened via a hot key.

Comments please.. :)

ps - Yes it could seem like I'm just trying to create a new/different/'yet another' 'Launchy' kinda app and on a very basic level, maybe I am, but I like the apps I use to be exactly to my specs and I can never find anything like that. :)

[nicckk]

When I read your post, I immediately thought of Launchy. First off, do you know any languages?

[SystemOverload]

VBA and PHP really... Dabbled a little in VB and a little in C, but part from that I've been going away from standard languages over last 5 years and moving over to PHP/MySQL. But I feel the need to do something ON the desktop and I can't stand what other people have created, not that there is anything wrong with thir creatings, but I like things to do exactly what i want...

Instead you end up with 5 different programmes, using a bit of each. The short answer is that you should assume I know nothing and I will start at the beginning. :)

[WingedPanther]

I would recommend C++ along with the Windows API. Note: This will not be a trivial thing to do, you will have a steep learning curve.

[SystemOverload]

I have no issues with a Steep Learning Curve, just need a place to start... :P

Where might I find help with the Windows API, specifically integrating it with C++?

[WingedPanther]

I recommend you start with C++, then add the Windows API to it. The two are not tightly integrated.

[SystemOverload]

Thats cool... My first goal would be to create a Launchy style 'bar', not a tool bar or menu bar, just an area of the screen that you could fit 'x' number of icons/shaps on. Horizontally, Vertically or 2 x 10 etc, depending on the screen size and ur preferences.

But I'd want to be able to infinitly customise the look of it, colour, transparency etc...

[WingedPanther]

You can get there :)