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All my products and services are free. All my costs are met by donations I receive from my users. If you enjoy using any of my products, please donate to support me. Thank you for your support. Tom Speirs

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Showing content with the highest reputation since 02/19/24 in all areas

  1. Just sharing a good find. I normally use remote desktop on Windows but it is session based and no good for live managing a Pinball or Arcade cabinet. In recent years I used a paid version of AnyDesk when Teamviewer ditched me. AnyDesk works good but the other day I was looking for something for Mac over old legacy VNC. I found nomachine. https://nomachine.com Looks pretty good to me at least on windows on a LAN. There is a 60fps option and resolution fit. Features lacking in all three of the others.
    2 points
  2. Still my favorite theme. GameEx just looks weird without it. (Sorry Tom) Here's some more torture stats from the GPD WIN 4. As you can see in GPU-Z the 16GB RAM is assigned to the GPU like I thought. Heaven shows a good 62 FPS average but don't be fooled. It stuttered in the larger scenes noticeably hence the 9 FPS low. I really love this thing. PS2, Gamecube, Dreamcast... pffft... it doesn't even sweat.
    2 points
  3. You mean like the title of the thread? 🤣 "Ryzen 7 7840u / 64GB RAM / 4 TB" Seriously though - I figured if I'm doing it I'm going all in. These specs were for the top model and as of this post the link is valid for this model specifically. It's $77 off right now but it's a pretty penny (150,000 pretty pennies to be exact). * It's an 8-core, 16 thread chip that can hit 5.1GHz. I think it runs at a normal max of 3.3 GHz and at idle I've only seen it as low as 2.5 GHz so very nice. * It is running 64GB of DDR5 of which 48GB are usable (massive overkill I know). I think the other 16GB are reserved for the GPU? Could be wrong. * The GPU is the on-board AMD Radeon 780M which I have stressed a little. It's somewhere between a GTX 1660ti and a 2070 Super(?). It runs well that's all I know. It will do 1080p but on the 6" screen 720p is more than enough. I still do 1080p docked though. I get a solid 60FPS in Forza Horizon 4, Fortnite, Slay the Spire, Skyrim, etc. She'll chug in Cyberpunk but I can lock the FPS and it's a solid experience. I still want to "Furmark and Unigine the hell out of it" but I've had too much fun just using it. * There's an optical mousepad on this thing that's just so easy to use. Took me a hot minute to get used to it but I absolutely love it. Beats the actual joystick+shoulder buttons "mouse mode" the system sports. * The GPD WIN uses an XBox style controller setup. Works fine. The right stick is a tad close to the A button for my tastes but I'm getting used to it. * It has a 6" LCD that is smaller than the Steam Deck but it's more vibrant. I don't notice the difference while using it. Slide it up and it feels better playing on it PLUS reveals a full, back-lit keyboard. * I do have the dock which adds the usual HDMI out and USB Type-A ports. Right now I have a mouse/keyboard attached and it's connected to my 1080p monitor. * WiFi is as fast as my laptop and desktop so no complaints there. I've played Fortnite as I said earlier with a solid, no stutter 60FPS. * The Bluetooth works. I don't use it much on any of my PCs but it works. * The SD card slot works as well as an SD card can in terms of speed so *shrug*. * The speakers are front-firing and sound a lot better than I expected. They do get obscured a bit by my hands but even then they sound better than any rear-firing or bottom-firing speakers I've heard on other handhelds. Just for reference here's my Amazon review: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R30NIVB2LFQQOO?ref=pf_ov_at_pdctrvw_srp
    2 points
  4. it is internet connection and it will require a login here. Its free and no third parties involved either but its not open source. However, there is nothing to stop someone developing an alternative client. its open enough to do that. Just look at the setup wixard xml files. i would consider it an asset to all. i lack a little motivation to develop a client for the third time ashough will be doing something built into gameex locally very soon. i guess that colud be adapted for Pinballx too for the linux and mac versions but not Android,
    2 points
  5. setup wizard is going to be web based. its there already just people dont know.
    2 points
    I love the dark mode! I also (having tried other front ends) love this database manager, pinballX, and appreciate all of the hard work done to make and maintain the program(s).
    2 points
  6. @scuttersand myself released a relative small update. well small for the end users, but a big one for code. When you use Database Manager on windows 10 or higher with applications set to dark mode, you will see huge difference when the application is launching. it could be looks like this : yes, DBM now has a dark mode as well and on first launch it will use the theme setting from the operating system. You don't like the dark theme (or you have light theme and want to switch to dark ?), just go t settings and toggle the theme button. The program will restart and you have the selected theme. Another small addition is something that was on the release calendar for a longer period, but never came to it (although it was an easy one). A help button on the main form that will open the user documentation (a default PDF reader must be installed and associate with .PDF files) Just 2 small things. We hope you like it. As usual, big thanks to @scuttersfor his help, ideas, testing and coding (and changing images to be used in dark mode ).
    2 points
  7. I've made good strides on the Android and Linux versions of GameEx. You can try them and follow the progress here. View the full article
    2 points
  8. The stats plugin works perfect! I thought I wanted no text under the arc, but now I'm thinking I just wanted different information. Thank you mike_da_spike and Scutters
    2 points
  9. From recently triaged issues, I think 15.56 might be a better test and before we encountered recent issues due to cross-platform changes.
    1 point
  10. Hi there - to ensure a quicker response please note the following: When reporting an issue, it is best to attach copies of your pinballx.ini and log.txt files for review Be mindful of where you are in the forums when you open a thread - this one was opened in the GameEx > General forum Also, noted that you said "the legends pinball table does not recognize it and won't turn on." Are you trying to modify an At Games Legends Pinball table? If so, is it running PinballX as the frontend? Thanks!
    1 point
  11. Our deepest thanks to you and @Phantom both. I will soon post some video examples of the program running.
    1 point
  12. You're welcome! The thanks goes to @Phantom as I chanced upon a thread where he noted having it installed and had a recent gameex.ini file with the Clone Hero settings enclosed.
    1 point
  13. Wow. You bet your ass it's running GameEx! Of course it is! (And Steam. And Epic. And Battle.Net.) This thing is amazing. Full-fledged PC with some nice gaming chops. Emulation is a breeze.
    1 point
  14. Super build for sure! Sort of qualifies what kind of expense making these is when you don’t have game licensing to take up the slack.
    1 point
  15. 3 MONTH UPDATE: So far really enjoying this handheld a lot. Using Retroarch to emulate N64, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance. Other than some issues (which are fixable) with controls assignments, it just works and very well. Will give GameEx Arcade Edition a go soon and add to the emulator mix.
    1 point
  16. Nice theme you got there! Tell us more! Links to find and additional stats of your build (storage, GPU and CPU stats, etc.)!
    1 point
  17. Version 2.01

    5074 downloads

    Instant Sheller: It allows you to one click shell GameEx or any other front end. Its for Windows XP Service pack 2 and above, Vista, Windows 7 and the latest versions of Windows 10. It also requires the .net framework 2 service pack 1 or above. It features a one click ‘Undo’. Updated May 2018 for support for the latest versions of Windows 10 Pro and Windows 10 Enterprise. For Windows 10 Enterprise it can completely hide everything. It can change the uefi boot logo on windows 10 too. To use this feature ensure secureboot is disabled. There is an option to set the windows resolution. This is intended for a portable PC where it may be connected to different TVs and upon connection to a new display the resolution may be reset. For those that need to be told and don't understand what this is, this software is use at your own risk.
    1 point
  18. I understand and hope all gets better soon!
    1 point
  19. Benefits of updating - well, since we are up to version 18.60 (vs. your 5.31) there is the matter of support because any programatic fixes that may come about would require it. Given that your rig is on XP, the newer versions are not going to be compatible. If everything is working well still and you are happy with it, then don't upgrade. There are a number of users over the years that have gotten things set "just right" and disconnected their machines from the internet. There are many of them that have had to come back because something breaks requiring them to upgrade because their kit is running an on an out of support OS, drivers, GPU, etc. for the new parts. Typically it is a hard drive or an arcade monitor or mainboard components that have to be replaced. There are - so long as Tom supports the software - always newer features and capabilities and even derivitive versions of GameEx. Wish I could say more. Back up what you can and plan for a future upgrade.
    1 point
  20. Thanks for the help. We'll get that fixed properly in the next release.
    1 point
  21. Resolved. That was it! Database Manager is now aware of my Loading Videos. I also see I now have a "UseTableLoadingMedia" setting in the pinballx.ini. I guess I've never had a need to change that particular setting. Much appreciated!
    1 point
  22. Version 24.03.04.0 released. This is just a small bug fix release for a couple of dark mode issues. thanks to @burno_sardine for letting us know that the buttons where not coloured on his system (and we discovered that it has to do with language) Also 2 small other issues detected that are fixed Thanks to @scuttersfor his enormous support and quick code modifications
    1 point
  23. Thank you for your feedback. Best way to get good support is to use the support thread for DBM, or create a new issue in the general PinballX forum Regarding the font : As the dark mode needed another font colour for the images, we experimented with different colours.iI needs to show fine with all the image background colours we use (red/green/yellow and transparant). This colour was the one we agreed to that was showing the best on all 3 colours. we called them orange buttons .... and should be in dark mode rounded. like in the following screenshot : Edit: Ok. We are humans too. The white corners was an issue that we should noticed during testing. It only shows when the language is set to another language. Latest release fixed this. Thanks for letting us know
    1 point
  24. Can you post a new topic in the general forum for that, attaching your pinballx\config\pinballx.ini, pinballx\log\log.txt and pinballx\plugins\PBXLoadingImage_log.txt files. Thanks.
    1 point
  25. That worked. thanks. Looks like it orders filters and playlists seperately, so had to play with it a bit to get it in an accepatable order. T
    1 point
  26. Have dipped my toes into the pool and decided to poll ChatGPT to see how it would respond to my request "Compile a list of popular gaming frontends including GameEx with a brief description of each" Certainly! Here's a list of popular gaming frontends including GameEx, along with brief descriptions: 1. **GameEx:** - **Description:** GameEx is a comprehensive gaming frontend primarily designed for Windows systems. It provides a user-friendly interface for launching games, managing libraries, and integrating various emulators and media players. 2. **LaunchBox:** - **Description:** LaunchBox is a versatile gaming frontend compatible with Windows. It offers a customizable interface for organizing and launching games from different platforms, including consoles, arcade machines, and PC titles. 3. **Hyperspin:** - **Description:** Hyperspin is a visually impressive gaming frontend known for its animated menus and extensive customization options. It supports various emulators and systems, providing an immersive experience for users. 4. **Big Box (from LaunchBox):** - **Description:** Big Box is the premium version of LaunchBox, optimized for use on TV screens and arcade cabinets. It offers a controller-friendly interface with large icons and smooth navigation for an enhanced gaming experience. 5. **EmulationStation:** - **Description:** EmulationStation is an open-source frontend commonly used with RetroPie on Raspberry Pi systems. It provides a clean and simple interface for browsing and launching games across different emulated platforms. 6. **RetroArch:** - **Description:** RetroArch is a powerful frontend and emulator that supports multiple gaming platforms and cores. It offers advanced features like shader support, netplay, and save states, making it popular among retro gaming enthusiasts. 7. **Attract-Mode:** - **Description:** Attract-Mode is an open-source frontend designed primarily for arcade cabinets and retro gaming setups. It focuses on customization and visual appeal, allowing users to create dynamic displays for their game collections. 8. **Steam Big Picture Mode:** - **Description:** Steam Big Picture Mode is an integrated feature of the Steam platform, optimized for TV screens and controllers. It provides a console-like interface for accessing the Steam library, games, and community features from the comfort of your couch. These gaming frontends offer various features and customization options, catering to different preferences and gaming setups. Whether you're a retro gaming enthusiast or looking to create an immersive gaming experience on your PC or TV, there's likely a frontend that suits your needs.
    1 point
  27. Yes, i'll post pictures later and ini files etc
    1 point
  28. Once ive finished with multi platform there will be new skinning features. internally known as V6 themes. I have a lot in my head right now but its going to be incredibly versatile and extensable\
    1 point
  29. Thank you for your kind offer to help. Im working on GameEx cross platform first. it shares a lot of the code, so progress there is progress with PinballX. I released Alpha versions of Linux of Android GameEx yesterday.
    1 point
  30. I was adding a new table this morning and noticed it recorded the DMD this time. Maybe I needed to do a reboot after the changes I made last night? But just tested 24 and it recorded now as well. So I am good to go. Thanks for the information on doing the setup again...I honestly thought when I was doing that in PBXRecorder it was updating the screenres as well..my mistake 24 PBXrecorder set to record complete media set FYI (FTP not enabled): No Wheel Image - 24.png Launching table: VPinballX.exe -play C:\Program Files (x86)\Visual Pinball\Tables\VPX\24 (Stern 2009)_Bigus(MOD)2.0.vpx Video and screenshot capture (09:10:54) Recording "C:\PBXRecorder_x64\playfield.mkv" Recording "C:\PBXRecorder_x64\bg.mkv" Recording "C:\PBXRecorder_x64\dmd.mkv" Convert Videos to f4v if video was captured (09:12:13) Converting to "C:\PinballX\Media\VPX\Table Videos\24.f4v" Converting to "C:\PinballX\Media\VPX\Backglass Videos\24.f4v" Converting to "C:\PinballX\Media\VPX\DMD Videos\24.f4v" Table done (09:13:00)
    1 point
  31. Don't worry sorted now. Didn't realise game manager makes it easier !
    1 point
  32. From the log it looks like the DMD screen is not set up in screenres.txt(?) Screenres.txt 1366 768 1280 1024 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Values used for media capture (height/width forced to even values) VirtualScreenWidth = 2646 TotalScreenWidth = 1366 PF_width = 1366 PF_height = 768 BG_width = 1280 BG_height = 1024 DMD_width = 0 DMD_height = 0 DMD_X_offset = 0 DMD_Y_offset = 0 Have you installed and updated the B2S in a new folder? (later B2S versions allow this, but Pbxrecorder uses the copy in the visual pinball\tables folder) see https://www.vpforums.org/index.php?showtopic=19589&p=179173 for what sort of values you'd expect to see in a screenres.txt file with a DMD screen
    1 point
  33. I just did the size again and now I see it on the 3rd monitor. Weird...i did that roiginally but it did not take. I dunno but I think this is good now.
    1 point
  34. Didn't know about older version being found there, thanks. So it looks like the problem actually started at 18.57. It all worked fine up until 18.56
    1 point
  35. Go to the Downloads > GameEx section, then to See Change Log, click the drop down, select the prior version and click Download This File.
    1 point
  36. Please attach your pinballx\config\pinballx.ini and pinballx\log\log.txt files. I think what you want is an 'active filter' list if you want Pinball FX to appear under a different name under lists. Try pasting the following into notepad, and save it as '4. Pinball FX.ini' in the PinballX\Databases\Pinball FX folder; [Filter] Comment Year_from=0 Manufacturer Category Description= Author Theme System=Pinball FX Year_to=0 File
    1 point
  37. I've said it before but get a mini PC rather than a PI.
    1 point
  38. The Raspberry Pi novelty has definitely worn off in my house. Between my wife and I we had 6 at one point running various things. I am down to 2x RPi 4 setups - a Pimoroni PiCade and a 10.1" Sunfounder setup. I keep these since they are both portable and run on a 25W battery bank for 8+ hours. Back in August I sold off 3 of the RPi's and used some of the money to buy a Windows mini PC. The mini-est I could find actually! It's a GMKTek Windows mini pc. 1000 times better, has more power and runs Windows. The emulation is good but the functionality I get from it being an actual PC just makes it the better buy. Stream movies, productivity, general browsing, YouTube (Ms Rachel for the grandkids is a MUST LOL). It just makes more sense. I put it in the entertainment center with a Bluetooth keyboard and you can't even see it. I paid $170 USD at the time but right now it's only $140 USD. There's just so many better options. If you like the Raspberry Pi and tinkering around and playing with it as a hobby then yeah buy one. If you just want something to emulate on without tinkering or hassles AND get a full blown PC as a bonus then why would you even look at a Pi?
    1 point
  39. Updated to latest .net 6 desktop runtime but still the only regularly updated front end tthat supports Windows XP too other than RetroArch.>Removed a little fat from the GameEx executables.Forgot to mention in the previous releaase but the TMDB API is working again and the Movie database within GameEx now supports your online streamed videos. It should build up quite nicely now.If you receive false positives with Windows Defender, I have resolved this with Microsoft and you just need to update to the latest Windows Defender definitions. View the full article
    1 point
  40. $160 Stateside. https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-Lake-N100-Desktop-Computer-Ethernet/dp/B0BYJ9BC15/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=mini%2Bpc%2Bn100&sr=8-4&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.f5122f16-c3e8-4386-bf32-63e904010ad0&th=1
    1 point
  41. Another great post over on Tony's blog! https://arcadeblogger.com/2024/02/10/the-automatic-services-universal-arcade-cabinet/#like-35655
    1 point
  42. I have had good luck with this debloat script: It did seem to give me a noticeable performance improvement: https://github.com/LeDragoX/Win-Debloat-Tools
    1 point
    I used the DATABASE very little, now that I have some problems with the PBXRecorder I'm going to try to get everything working perfectly with this, I'll tell you... MY CONGRATULATIONS!
    1 point
    Thank you very much. I apreciate it.
    1 point
  43. Its explained completly in the manual Not sure either, i will check my black rose. Otherwise post yout log file and your settings fille
    1 point
  44. I use the speech plugin for Touch-Play, but when I start it says welcome to pinball X. It would be nice it says welcome to Touch-Play. I tried to find a config file to change the text but didn't succeed. Can this be easily fixed?
    1 point
  45. I use this script.bat as Launch After to make sure any external process is clossed The script contains this: powershell -Command "Start-Process 'taskkill' '/IM UltraVPServer.exe /T /F' -WindowStyle hidden -Verb runAs" powershell -Command "Start-Process 'taskkill' '/IM B2SBackglassServerEXE.exe /T /F' -WindowStyle hidden -Verb runAs" powershell -Command "Start-Process 'taskkill' '/IM UltraDMD.exe /T /F' -WindowStyle hidden -Verb runAs" powershell -Command "Start-Process 'taskkill' '/IM pinupplayer.exe /T /F' -WindowStyle hidden -Verb runAs" How can you force to close the old VPserver B2S, although I no longer use any of these. It also forces the Direct B2S to close, although these do not usually cause problems. It also forces Ultra DMD and PinUp Player to close. Kill.bat
    1 point
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