** 0.7 page review / 367 words
ResourceMaster v2.07e
Utility/Programming
Shareware, all Ataris, any resolution
88%

** On Reader disk logo here **
** RSM.GIF here **

Resource editors are one programming tool we can all find a use for. If you've wondered what's inside the RSC files which accompany most GEM applications you can take a peek using ResourceMaster. Typically RSC files contain the nuts and bolts of the user interface including the dialogs, alert boxes and text strings. Using a Resource editor it's possible to edit the RSC file so it looks different on-screen but a word of warning here - making changes to a program RSC file can easily damage it, rendering your software useless, so always work on a backup. Only make changes for your own use (or in liaison with the original author) and never distribute a hacked RSC file.

In addition to creating the user interface for programs Resource editors typically include an icon editor which can be used to create and edit your desktop icons. ResourceMaster is the only non-commercial RSC editor we're aware of which can handle RSC files larger than 64Kb and supports colour icon editing up to 256 colours. Although the icon editor is still under development it can already be used to edit the colour desktop icons included with Gemini and Thing and this feature alone will ensure its instant popularity.

ResourceMaster is programmed by Armin Diedering and has been under development since 1992. Version 2 includes support for all the extended features needed to support program development on the Falcon and other colour capable machines including the 3D look although it's equally at home on an ST in medium resolution. As you'd expect for a program going through a rapid development phase here are a few bugs to be cleared up but with each new release these become less troublesome.

ResourceMaster includes English ST-Guide format hypertext documentation and is currently released as unrestricted shareware, although restrictions may be added dependent on the level of support. Registration costs £18 via InterActive or 35DM direct with the author.
** Italics on **
Mick Lock
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** ICONEDIT.GIF use this! **
The icon editor. Although most of the tool options are still greyed out it's perfectly usable