What can it do

The capabilities of Macroware are virtually boundless, limited only by ones imagination. With a repertoire of over 130 functions, Macroware seamlessly integrates these functions through the use of automatically assigned variables.

Continuously evolving, Macroware regularly incorporates new functions to enhance its capabilities. Some examples of its extensive functionalities include:

• Configurations can be easily visualized and controlled by incorporating images, text lines, geometric forms, and dynamic graphics, enabling the identification of mouse actions, including position and clicks and keyboard actions.

• Each function comes with a standard value, providing the option to save functions without immediate input. Subsequently, mandatory variables is created with suitable names and can be connected as needed in other functions. Input fields are pre-set with standard values, which can be easily modified if deemed necessary, offering flexibility in customization.

• File operations: Read text to variables and write to any file, offering versatile data manipulation.
• Text data manipulation: Efficiently manipulate and extract data from variables.
• Automatic variable assignment: Variables are assigned automatically, eliminating the need for specifying types; the software intelligently interprets variable types.

• Variables between functions can be effortlessly connected through a dropdown list or, for more advanced integration, by addressing them with <v"Variable"v>. These variables can then be combined in numerous ways, offering a wide range of flexible and powerful combinations for functions input.

• Variables containing separated values can be easily accessed directly within a function by utilizing <v"Variable".:0v>, allowing one to retrieve in this case the first value of a variable with distinct values separated by in this case a colon sign : .

• Simple arithmetic +-*/ operations can be directly employed within functions. For instance, to add a value to a variable, one can use <s<v"Variable"v>+123m>, showcasing the ease of incorporating basic arithmetic calculations.

• The "Option" feature allows users to type '<v' in a text field, prompting a dropdown list of all available variables. Users can then choose the desired variable, press enter, and the correctly formatted variable assignment is automatically inserted into the text field. This streamlines the process of referencing and utilizing variables within the software.

• Connect values between concurrently running configs(Threads), the write/read thread memory functions are available. These, similar to standard variables, can be read within functions using the command <r"Address":"SubAddress"r>. With a total of 5 addresses and 2000 subaddresses available, this provides a versatile space comprising 10,000 variable positions. And can ofcourse also be combined with Simple arithmetic and easy access of separated values defined above.

• Network communication: Communicate via Ethernet IP between computers and control systems.
• I2C and serial communication support: Macroware facilitates easy communication with peripheral devices such as Arduino and sensors such as gyroscopes on Raspberry Pi.

• The software packages includes an advanced example of a visualized and controllable environment that can be initiated by simply starting the program and running the designated macro. The configuration is automatically loaded, as specified in the options tab. Users have the possibility to alter and use this configuration according to their preferences and specific needs as one see fit.
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  The configurations are derived from the development of a drone configuration. While it's evident that peripheral devices need to be connected to the Raspberry Pi for the configurations to function optimally, this example serves as a foundational template for various projects. Importantly, it illustrates how configurations developed in Linux seamlessly translate to other platforms, such as Windows. This interoperability enhances the flexibility and accessibility of Macroware for diverse applications.

• Additionally, Macroware software package features a clock configuration named clock.cfg with a touch of psychedelic aesthetics. This serves as a demonstration of how vector functions can easilly be seamlessly incorporated, along with advanced variable manipulation, into text fields. This showcases the software's ability to create visually engaging and dynamic configurations with minimum effort and maximum readability.

• Config file execution in Macroware allows you to run configuration files with arguments to and from the program. When utilizing separated input and output, there is no limit to the number of variables that can be referenced. This flexibility ensures efficient and dynamic interaction with configuration files, allowing seamless integration of numerous variables into your Macroware workflows.

• Error handling: Each function comes equipped with its own error handling, offering multiple reaction options.

• Simultaneous execution allows for running multiple configurations concurrently, facilitating efficient multitasking. With the support of multi-core processors, this capability significantly enhances speed and overall performance, offering a seamless and optimized experience.

• Advanced math and logic functions: Perform highly complex mathematical and logical operations.
  

• A CRC check function is available to ensure data consistency during transfers or verification processes. This feature serves as a reliable tool to guarantee the accuracy and integrity of transferred or verified data.

• MySQL database access: Macroware now features support for MySQL databases, including basic access functions such as creating tables, inserting data, querying data, and deleting rows. More extensive functions are coming soon.

• The software has the capability to retrieve camera images from a connected Raspberry Pi camera. It provides the flexibility to manipulate, present, and analyze the images according to the user's preferences and requirements.

• Support for Sequent Microsystems hardware: Seamless integration with a range of hardware.

• In Macroware, the "Recognize and find patterns on the screen" function empowers you to identify and recognize patterns on your computer screen. This feature includes several capabilities:

  1. Learn Patterns: You can teach Macroware to recognize specific visual patterns on the screen. This involves selecting an area of the screen that contains the pattern you want to identify.

  2. Return Screen Coordinates: Once a pattern is learned, Macroware can provide the screen coordinates (X, Y) of that pattern.

  3. Save to Variable: The obtained screen coordinates can be saved to a variable, allowing you to reference and use these coordinates in subsequent actions.

  4. Mouse Move and Press: With the identified pattern, Macroware can be instructed to move the mouse to that specific area or offset area and perform a mouse press action.

  This functionality is particularly useful for automating tasks that involve interacting with specific visual elements on the screen, allowing for precise control and manipulation based on learned patterns.

• Screenshot capture: Capture full-screen or define movable areas effortlessly. Provides the flexibility to manipulate, present, and analyze the images according to the user's preferences and requirements.

• Facilitate seamless reading and writing of variables or text directly to Excel documents.

• Clipboard operations: Read from and write to the clipboard using familiar CTRL+C and CTRL+V commands.
• Help files: Access comprehensive help files for every function.

• Encrypt and decrypt files with up to 256-bit AES encryption standard.

• The download package also includes a configuration to convert Time_ms to date and time from Siemens HMI panel log files.

• A configuration imitating the classic game Snake is available in the software package. It's important to note that Macroware is not specifically intended for game development and is not optimized for that purpose. However, this configuration serves as a demonstration of the versatility and possibilities that can be achieved with Macroware. The fact that a fully functional version of such a game can be implemented with under a total of 100 instructions showcases the sheer power of Macroware.In addition to the classic Snake game, a fun new version called "Snake Gigantor" is now available!

  Introducing also "Snake Gigantor vs. Pacman Family" – an even more advanced and thoroughly enjoyable game. Inspired by classics such as Snake, Pacman, and the Intellivision's retro game, Shark! Shark, this game stands out as a captivating hybrid.

  Demonstrating the impressive capabilities achievable with just 170 instructions in MacroWare. Explore the advanced features and witness the potential of this powerful tool.

• Function for retrieving keyboard inputs, allowing users to access keyboard keys. This feature enhances interaction possibilities within the software.

• function for sending files over networks, expanding the software's capabilities to facilitate efficient file transfers.

• PDF file processing: Read and manipulate PDF files.

And this is just a glimpse of the extensive capabilities that Macroware brings to the table. The software's versatility and ongoing development ensure that it remains at the forefront of automation solutions.

How does it work

Getting started with Macroware is as simple as downloading and extracting the compressed file with software. Once installed, you can easily configure and run your own macros, streamlining your workflow with efficiency and precision. The user-friendly interface ensures a smooth experience, allowing you to harness the power of automation without any complicated setup processes. Download, click macroware – it's that straightforward to unlock the full potential of Macroware for your automation needs.

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To run Macroware, it is essential to have either the Apache or OpenJDK Java package installed on your system. Although these packages are commonly used by other software and propably already installed, but if they are not present, you can download and install Java from the official website:

Download Java

(www.java.com)

After successfully installing Java, you should be able to run Macroware on your system without any issues.

In what language is Macroware written

Macroware is written in Java using the NetBeans development environment. Its implementation in Java ensures cross-platform compatibility, and the software operates seamlessly on Linux (Unix) systems. While its functionality has been confirmed on Linux, it has not undergone extensive testing on Mac systems.

What comes next

The future of Macroware holds exciting developments. Here's a glimpse of what comes next:

1. Enhanced Vision Tools: Expect more extensive vision tools, including Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and advanced object recognition capabilities.
   

2. Vision Camera Prototype: A vision camera prototype, built on Raspberry Pi and Sequent Microsystems I/O card, is in the works. While fully functional within Macroware, it's currently in the prototype phase, addressing casing considerations and exploring additional vision functionalities.

3. OPC Support: Future updates will bring support for OPC (OLE for Process Control), enhancing interoperability with various industrial automation devices and systems.

4. Raspberry Pi Image Package: Look forward to a complete Raspberry Pi image package, bundled with Macroware software, full camera support, and Sequent Microsystems I/O compatibility, complete with pre-installed drivers for seamless integration.

5. 3D Files for Vision Camera Casing: DIY enthusiasts will appreciate the availability of 3D files, allowing you to 3D print your own vision camera casing. This feature adds a customizable dimension to the hardware component of Macroware's vision capabilities.

Exciting times lie ahead as Macroware continues to evolve, introducing new features and expanding its functionality to meet the dynamic needs of users. Stay tuned for these upcoming enhancements that promise to elevate your automation and vision experiences.

What does it cost

Macroware is offered completely free of charge for both commercial and personal use. It's important to note that ABEKO, the provider of Macroware, does not assume responsibility for the software's usage or any potential damage resulting from misuse or careless behavior. Users are encouraged to use Macroware responsibly and in accordance with ethical and legal considerations.

                                                    Safety Concerns

As you are likely aware, downloading executable files from the internet, especially from untrusted sources, poses a risk of malware and viruses. Macroware, being a software, is an executable file in the form of a Java program. Abeko wants to assure users that the risk of malware or virus infection is uncommon, if not unheard of, from a webpage that presents contact information, like the one provided here.

Abeko guarantees that Macroware does not have any malicious intent and is designed solely for the benefit of users. The software is developed with the user's safety and security in mind, and you can confidently use it without concerns about any harmful elements.

                                                     User input

Macroware is in a constant state of evolution, continually exploring new avenues to enhance its functionality. Abeko highly values and appreciates any ideas and suggestions for new functions that can contribute to the improvement and expansion of ways to automate more efficiently. Your input is crucial in shaping the future development of Macroware, and Abeko welcomes and appreciates your contributions towards making the software even more robust and user-friendly.

                                                 Vision of Macroware 

Macroware, while being a free software, does have a commercial goal. However, it is important to note that the primary intent is to always keep it as freeware. The financial aspect is approached in a way that aligns with the philosophy of maintaining it as a free tool for users.

One key aspect of Macroware's design is its developer-friendly structure. Functions can be added with incredible ease, allowing standard functions to be incorporated within a matter of minutes. This includes all the necessary features such as variable handling, error handling, and ensuring reliability. While the functions themselves can be complex and time-consuming to program and verify, the underlying design facilitates efficient development.

Abeko firmly believes that Macroware has significant applications in industrial and commercial spaces. The vision is that businesses in these sectors will use the software and may have specific needs that require the development of tailored functions. Abeko envisions generating income by providing customized solutions to commercial entities with specific requirements, allowing Macroware to evolve based on the demands of its user base in various industries.

                                       Revision history of Macroware

20220925 v1.04 Added replace positions to replace text. Previous only one position replaced - Testing 8
20221001 v1.10 Added Excel and Bitmap functions - Testing 6
20221003 v1.11 Added rotation to text - Testing 6
20221004 v1.12 Added Excel read column and row. Added present loaded image - Testing 5
20221005 v1.13 Added function for reading excel remove line breaks changed row and column so 1 is 1 row and column
20221005 v1.14 Fixed bug for show load image, added function system/Get preview mouse press pos
20221009 v1.15 OpenJDK can now be used, fixed excel row error, backward compatibility for replace text, added whitin rectangle,
Load image run config in config, assemble fixture for rectangle
20221011 v1.16 Changed assemble fixture to press and release and to rectangle cords
20221018 v1.17 Expanded math function, get filename
20221021 v1.20 Various bugfixes, @Confighome is now a optional directory, Added example to installfile
20221022 v1.21 bugfixes to @Confighome added step for debug
20221022 v1.22 Added present loaded image, save loaded image, Load image to write bitmap text, Load image to write bitmap rectangle.
20221023 v1.23 Fixed bitmap insert scale issue
20221101 v1.24 GUI made compatble with 800*480 resolution display, serial com for raspberry, various fixes and functions added
20221105 v1.25 help file support added
20221114 v1.26 Math Advanced implemented
20221116 v1.27 Added multiple or singel constant variable definition to several functions
20221119 v1.28 Added multiple or singel constant variable definition to all textfield functions also simple math to all function textfields
20221121 v1.29 Added Math round to decimals, fixed issue with run config that appeared after update v1.28
20221122 v1.31 Issue was not resolved run config but should be sorted now.
20221122 v1.32 Issue was not resolved run config but third time the charm thoroughly tested should absolutely be sorted, also fixed issue with multiple
constant variable definition in run config.
20221122 v1.33 Fixed issue with saving excel remove cell line breaks
20221124 v1.34 Fixed issue with check if preview mouse pressed
20221205 v1.35 Added advanced logic
20221207 v1.36 implemented run config in thread working very porly but still under development
20230101 v1.41 run config in thread rebuilt to work seamlessly mayor rebuild of program execution, affected is also normal run
but should work as before run config in thread propably still have some issues/quarkes but extensivly tested and works fine.
Added function write and read thread common memory to make communication between thread easier.
20230105 v1.42 bug fixes
20230105 v1.43 bug fixes added minor various functions
20230105 v1.44 bug fixes
20230105 v1.45 bug fixes
20230116 v1.46 Possible to fit bitmap image to fixture
20230116 v1.47 rectangle cords insufficiant fixture cords are better and now supported with bitmap functions
20230116 v1.48 Debug function problem fixed
20230117 v1.49 Added copy part image changed some checkboxes bitmap, added load to create bitmap
20230118 v1.50 Added get mouse option relative presented image, bugfixes
20230122 v1.51 Added Create binary and write and read binaryy bit to Math
20230123 v1.52 Added set tread status and get thread status
20230125 v1.53 Added action get thread status expected status
20230127 v1.54
20230131 v1.55 Added action to expected read memory
20230202 v1.57 Added delay on threads
20230211 v1.58 Modified so that threads with same name react collectivly to orders.
20230220 v1.59 Bug fixes
20230310 v1.60 Bug fixes
20230330 v1.61 Removed show/hide
20230615 v1.62 function Variable/ Read csv added, default separator read is ; but can be defined to whatever
20230616 v1.63 Bugfixes Critical: show popup with data input and Write Csv
20230617 v1.64 Added option to include enter=\n as delimiter to accurately read/write csv files to csv read/write
20230617 v1.65 Bufixes to read/write csv files
20230720 v1.66 Bugfix critical, later version of jre package causing unhandled exception
20240101 v1.0.751 Alot of testing and bugfixes.

In the latest update, Macroware introduces several new functions, enhancing its capabilities. Noteworthy improvements include refined support for Raspberry Pi serial communication and I2C communication, among other enhancements. The version numbering system has been updated to provide clarity on the nature of changes: x.y.z

• x (Major Revision): This denotes significant changes that may impact the overall look and feel of the software. It represents a major overhaul of the application.

• y (Major Update): Major updates indicate that some old configurations may not function as expected, unless otherwise stated. This signals substantial changes that may affect compatibility.

• z (Minor Update): Minor updates focus on bug fixes and the addition of functions. Old configurations should continue to work seamlessly.

Testing of the latest version involved designing a drone using Macroware as the control system, running on a Raspberry Pi. Serial communication was established with an Arduino, responsible for managing motor speed, servo direction, sensors, and more. The drone is part of an ongoing 3D modeling project for a printer and is currently in development. Upon completion, the entire project will be released as a comprehensive DIY (Do-It-Yourself) kit, showcasing the practical applications and capabilities of Macroware in real-world projects.

20240105 v1.0.752 Added functions to Encrypt and decrypt file using AES 128, 192, 256 bit encryption standard. Create key, encrypt files, decrypt files. Now available under File actions.

20240105 v1.0.753 Added function for retrieving keyboard inputs. Get Keyboard key, Now available under System actions.

20240107 v1.0.754 Added function for rotating separeted variables left or right. Rotate csv, Now available under Variable actions.

20240107 v1.0.756 Minor bugfixes. Added checkbox for advanced math result as Integer.

20240108 v1.0.760 Very nice update, a kind of compiler added. there is three kind of goto functions, standard goto,
Action goto and error goto. They are connected by set name so if a function is renamed or removed it will cause the
goto to be unconnected but now it is checked every time a config is saved and is prompted with detailed information.
The compile is only warning Macroware philosphy is not to restraint development in any aspect.

20240108 v1.0.762 Last update made it evident that Variable condition used wrong internal cfg adress.
Corrected this. function should still be ok without update in configs but will report error at save
but is rectified by saving. Math, Math that dont use action goto was also reporting because status was not reset.
Fixed and checked other function aswell, should be ok.

20240108 v1.0.763 Altered get keyboard key so that response time is faster.

20240109 v1.0.764 Tested with mac and issue as aspected there was a problem with file access due to diffrence between
windows and mac fixed this issue. Some testing seems fine.

20240109 v1.0.765 Mac Os should be considered as Linux/Unix in aspect of file system because it essentially is but not as raspberry.
Corrected

20240112 v1.0.768 Minor fixes and updates Encrypt and decrypt have now chose directory option.
Delay added to rectify not allways loading config at select,
Return argument Variable name was present in textfield after creation.
Paus tread issue not shutting down. Added center circle to write bitmap.
Unhandled crash in configuring mode with newly added save check fixed.

20240112 v1.0.769 Added option Center to rectangle, Image and 3d rectangle in Bitmap.
Fixed underlying problem with save check.
20240115 v1.0.770 added button to go enter configs before only double click option was available, changed icon for going back.
Save check function extended so that it checks format of <v"Variable"v> and <rX:Yr> doesnt work perfectly but very helpful.

20240117 v1.0.771 Action config for variable condition not showing correct, fixed.

20240118 v1.0.772 Added function get CRC, is now available in Text.

20240126 v1.0.773 Init value for open serial not existant added "/dev/ttyACM0" which is the most proper
one I have used for Raspberry pi 4 Serial communication on GPIO.
Added Hex to decimal in math
20240126 v1.0.774 Added carriage return checkbox to Communication>Send Serial
20240130 v1.0.775 Math function in math has hex convertion has been improved and bug fixed.
20240131 v1.0.776 Notification> show popup with data input added init text and show keyboard for Linux

20240210 v1.0.777 Minor coloring in function field
20240601 v1.0.778 Text>Replace Text destination fix for constant field not working

20240606 v1.0.779 Added function for converting Siemens HMI panel log file time format time_ms to Date and time Math>Siemens time_ms to dateTime
20240609 v1.0.780 Added start time_ms Math>Siemens time_ms to dateTime

20240618 v1.0.781 Fixed issue with Update values

20240618 v1.0.782 file>parent directory @home and @Confighome is returning full directory, Run file is now handeling @home and @Confighome correct
20240623 v1.0.783 Run config can now be set to handle fault locally, meaning if fault status in run config is set to ignore
this will override halt status in subsequent functions and run configs not stopping overall higher order running configs.

20240623 v1.0.784 Config save check an issue with faulty check error fixed

20240624 v1.0.785 Enlarged popup window
20240630 v1.0.786 File>Run file, It is now possible to ignore directory making it possible to run
windows PATH connected applications not yet tested for other OSs but should work.

20240630 v1.0.787 It is now possible to use argument <dd> in all input textfield to extract @home or @Confighome path or using path for multiple OSs
example <d@home\testd> will return full directory corrected for current executing OS.

20240702 v1.0.788 It is now possible to use argument <lc> in all input textfield to convert text to lower case
for example <l<vVariablev>c> will convert Variable contents to lower case.
Fixed issue with textfield for Text>Find text occurances.

20240702 v1.0.789 File>Run file, it is now possible to wait for file execution and retrieve data reported from the file to a variable.
checkbox was reversed from update v1.0.786 File>Run file with checkbox ignored checked need to be resaved to function properly.

20240705 v1.0.790 Argument to extract separated values in a text input can now handle special characters like .^$*+?()[]{}|\\
<vVariable.?0v> for example is now working

20240706 v1.0.791 New function to set config as main, if config is in a subdirectory to Macorware home
it will be able to load under File>Load from home

20240709 v1.0.792 Issue with Set main checkbox not unchecked in submenys fixed.

20240709 v1.0.793 Added possibility to start 1000 from 100 unique threads.
Changed limitation of running threads from 50 to 300, limitation is mainly to prevent badly configured configs with recursive call
to use up all memory and thereby crashing software.

20240909 v1.0.794 Fixed issue with File>Run file

20240911 v1.0.795 When using key input it is important that the program has focus so that it can read key input, but in some cases this is not pratical therefore a function System>Disable focus
has been added to disable this.

20240912 v1.0.796 Fixed issue with Text>Write text

20240924 v1.0.797 Fixed issue Excel/SQL>Read Column and Read Row. If Cell contained null it considered row/column as ended.

20240928 v1.0.798 Fixed a rare unhandled exception bug when saving.

20240929 v1.0.799 Insert function added under Menu>edit>. When resseting config Main set is now unchecked

20240929 v1.0.800 Removed wording "text" under function names for Text> to be more readable.
Counter start value was changed to have standard value 1 instead of 0.

20240930 v1.0.801 Set main checkbox is now easier to use and presenting save button, changed some
naming of File>Read and Write, removed some system out messages.

20241002 v1.0.802 It is now possible to drop files into Directory button which is used in many configs.
Directory and filename from file will automaticly be inserted into config.
Only tested in windows but should work for other OSs aswell.

20241003 v1.0.803 It is now possible to load configs by dropping it into the config list panel.

20241003 v1.0.804 It is now possible to drop files .txt,.xlsx,.pdf files into config panel and a
function for reading the files will be set directory and filename of file will be automaticly inserted

20241004 v1.0.805 It is now possible to drop additional files .exe, .jar, .csv, .cfg(Macroware config file format)
function for reading/executing the files will be set directory and filename of file will be automaticly inserted
and configured correctly.
If dropped files is apart of home directory @home will be set to ensure compability along OSs filesystems

20241005 v1.0.806 A new function for dropping files into execution windows and retrieving directory and filename
has been added under File>Drop file.
A check for drop to load configs into list panel have been added to prevent large files beeing dropped
by mistake and criple system, check is for ending with .cfg

20241007 v1.0.807 System>Get Keyboard key, if Ctrl Alt or "Alt Gr" is pressed while pressing key 1000, 2000 and 3000 is added respectivly to returned value.
drop additional files .xls
Added directory button to some communication functions and changed some wording.
Excel/sql>Read excel column/row Action for comlumn and row empty didnt work, fixed.

20241102 v1.0.810 Added new category Machine learning>Train Image classifier and run Image classifier (Experimental).
20241104 v1.0.811 Issue Bitmap>Cords wihin rectangle Action fix, some issues with new category fixed.
20241106 v1.0.812 Machine learning updates
20241107 v1.0.813 Machine learning updates
20241108 v1.0.814 Machine learning updates
20241108 v1.0.815 category Machine learning activated but only experimental not functioning, added Excel/Sql>API request

20241110 v1.0.816 Unhandled crash bug fixed
20241204 v1.0.817 Added feature fullscreen.
20241204 v1.0.818 Added 3 click activate/deactivate fullscreen, Fullscreen autostart option, support for mousepress fullscreen.
Some known issues with fullscreen still remains. Surely a few unknown aswell but works. overall pretty great.

20241215 v1.0.820 Added F11 click activate/deactivate fullscreen, fixed some issues with fullscreen. Fixed some minor bugs.

20250102 v1.0.821 Remade Save Screenshot it is now faster and possible to chose filetypes like bmp jpg and png.
20250105 v1.0.822 Changed naming of directory and Actions. Added compability to old Save Screenshot configs

20250107 v1.0.823 It is now possible to use <tab> to insert tab in all inputs.

20250130 v1.0.824 Added function to copy clipboard with CTRL+V a temp.txt file is created and File read to this file is configured for set file. Function is used by higligting a configuration name.

20250130 v1.0.825 It is now possible to use multiple CTRL-V into configurations

20250131 v1.0.826 Changed CTRL-V filename to ClipboardDataTemp. Fixed static input value for most Text> functions this is useful for using variable for static input <v"Variable"v>. Changed order for <tab> function so that it has priority making it possible to use separated <v"Variable".<tab>0v> utility into static text inputs, making it possible to example read specific excel pasted data directly.