My Sierra Software - Sierra Library

L0128. Floppy Drive Default Code

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0200

This article applies to most versions of Sierra software.

When you export your design as a stitch file (DST, EXP, 10o, PES, JEF, etc), the Embroidery Explorer module of your Sierra software performs a series of functions in the background to prepare your design for embroidery.

If you export designs to your floppy, the default code of your floppy drive should match the stitch file format of your designs.

To set or change the default code of your floppy drive: open Embroidery Explorer >> locate the Floppy Drive on the list of drives >> right-click >> Change Default Code To >> the format of your choice.  The picture below shows how to set the default code to Tajima.

Once you set the default code of your Floppy Drive, this format will show next to the Floppy Drive icon on your list of drives (see below).

L0124. Missing Machine Profiles

Sun, 7 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0200

An important component of your software is the set of Machine Profiles used by the program to process designs for embroidery. Without this critical component, your software would not be able to output embroidery files.

On some occasions, certain aggressive utility programs running in the background have been known to erase or otherwise compromise the integrity of these files, causing error messages at the time of saving files from your embroidery software.

Knowing which utility program on your computer creates this scenario would give you the best chance to address the issue, either by "allowing" these specific files from your embroidery software or otherwise preventing such utility program from scanning or altering the Sierra folders where they are stored.

A temporary solution would also be to simply copy all the Machine Profile files to the folder where the program keeps them. This solution only works until the next time your utility program decides to erase these files again or somehow render them unusable.

To manually copy the Machine Profiles to the proper folder, simply extract all the MCH files contained in the ZP file below to the following folder:

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Sierra\Common\Settings (XP)
C:\ProgramData\Sierra\Common\Settings (Vista / Win7)

Note: you may need to enable hidden files in order to view and access some of the above folders.

L0122. Server Connection Error U1000

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0200

If you're running the software on Windows 7, and you're receiving a Server Connection Error U1000, either while launching the software or while submitting an online report via Support Tools, your Firewall Properties are set to block outbound connections.

To resolve the issue, go to your Control Panel >> System and Security >> Windows Firewall >> Advanced Settings >> Windows Firewall Properties >> Private Profile tab >> and finally, change the Outbound Connections from Block to Allow >> hit OK >> launch the software again.

L0119. Installing User Fonts on EO9

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0200

Article written for ANY level of EO9 that includes the Component Manager.

As it was the case with earlier releases of EO, there are Fonts that were created by users and were not necessarily part of the system.  You can install these Fonts so your EO9 software recognizes them as Keyboard Fonts, just like the ones that were included with your system.

Of course, the first step with any User Font you wish to install is to save it to the computer where you'll be installing it.  After that, follow these steps to install it into your EO9 software:

To install User Fonts on EO9, go to Start >> All Programs >> Embroidery Office >> Component Manager.
Once the Component Manager is open, go to Tools >> Get Components From. (see #1 on the picture below)
From the Files of Type pull-down list, choose the DFONT extension. (see #2 on the picture below)
Locate the Font, then select it. (see #3 on the picture below)
Finally, click Open so the software can process it, at which point it will give you a confirmation message. (see #4 on the picture below)
You may now close the Component Manager, and launch EO9 to find your User Font installed with the rest of your EO Fonts.

L0118. Norton 2010 false positive on EO920

Thu, 3 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0200

If your EO920 software stops functioning properly on a computer running Norton Internet Security 2010 software, you're experiencing a false positive.  As a result of this event, the antivirus is deleting a critical file called EoExplorer.exe, which in turn causes the software to fail on certain input / output commands.

While subsequent virus definition updates from an antivirus company will usually rectify this type of situation without further action required, here is what you can do in the meantime to manually add a few critical files from EO920 to Norton's "safe list".

1. If your Norton AutoProtect is on, this is the error message you will receive towards the end of the EO920 installation process:

2. Launch Norton 2010, and click on the Settings link from the Computer section.

3. In the Real Time Protection area, turn off Auto Protect.

4. Install EO920 normally. You should not run into the error message described earlier.

5. Always from the Computer Settings area, go to Exclusions >> Scan Exclusions >> Configure.

6. In both Scan Exclusions and Auto-Protect Exclusions areas, click on Add and then enter these 4 exclusions:
- C:\Program Files\Sierra
- C:\Program Files\Common Files\Sierra
- C:\Program Files\Sierra\EO9\EoExplorer.exe
- C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Program Data\Sierra

7. When the above exclusions have been added, click OK to close the window.

8. Always on the Computer Settings window, open the Network Settings section and go to Smart Firewall >> Program Control >> Configure.

9. In the Program Control window, locate the EoExplorer item on the list of programs, and change the Access setting to Allow.

10. Click Apply and OK to close the window, and your EO920 should now function properly.

L0117. Components purchased before v9.20

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0200

If you purchased any Optional Components prior to v9.20 and when you try to install them on v9.20 it tells you that you need a different version, chances are you may have downloaded the Component for the wrong version.

As of v9.20, some Components may have more than one download available, so please make your download selection according to your software version!

L0116. SEL can't read DSGs from EO920

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0200

This download currently applies to a very small fraction of Sierra users, so keep in mind you may have no use for it. This patch will be automatically incorporated into subsequent releases.

If your Stitch Era Liberty v10.01 software gives you an error upon reading a DSG file created on EO v9.20, this Service Pack will address this issue.

Download the ZIP file from the link above, then extract the EXE file inside to your Desktop, and finally run the EXE file from there. It must be installed over Stitch Era v10.01.

L0115. Go To Function on stitch files on EO9

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0200

A quick way to navigate through the stitches on your expanded designs (DST, EXP, PES, JEF, etc) is to do it by travelling from machine command to machine command, whether those commands are trims or color changes.

TIP: if your software has a Stitch List, use it - it'll come in handy for visual confirmation at all times (the Stitch List in EO9 is the last tab on the right edge of the screen).

1. When you load a stitch file, the software should automatically place you in Stitch Edit mode. If you're not in this mode already, enter Stitch Edit mode by clicking on the Edit Stitches icon on the toolbar on the left.

2. Once you're in Stitch Edit mode, click on the Go To button located in the Commands section of the Stitch Editing ribbon.

3. From that menu, choose the function you want to use for navigating through your design, for instance Next Command.

L0114. Converting v7 Fonts into v9

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0200

Written for EO9 levels ART-D65 (Design Maxx Pro) and ART-D80 (Design Maxx Expert), or for any EO9 level with the FNT1 optional module (Create New Predigitized Fonts).

1. From the Home ribbon of your EO9 software, click on Components >> Fonts.

2. When the Font Library window appears, click on the New button on the Toolbar >> hit Next to enter the Digitized Font Wizard >> choose the option to Convert a Font from an earlier version >> Next.

3. Select the older Font you want to convert >> Next >> set the minimum and maximum sizes you'd like to use for this Font >> Next >> give it a name >> Finish.

4. That's it, your newly converted Font will be in your Library with the rest of the Fonts!

L0112. EraClean for Stitch Era v9

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0200

Download the attached ZIP file, then extract the 2 files inside to the Windows Desktop of the computer running Stitch Era, and finally execute the EraClean.EXE file.

Press Clean for a complete removal of Sierra files, or press Shift+Clean for a complete removal of Sierra files plus 3rd-party files installed by Stitch Era, i.e. Borland, etc.

Note: Era Clean should be used after a regular uninstall from the Windows Control Panel >> Add / Remove Programs.

L0111. Hidden files & folders

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0200

Windows will normally hide some important files from general view by default, with the intention to prevent misuse or accidental deletion of these files by you, the user.

Some files, however, are very critical to the use of your software, and while it's important not to delete them or alter them in any way, your technical support staff may need them at any given time to review and/or troubleshoot any particular situation you may be experiencing with your software.

Here is a quick screen shot of where you'll find the setting to make those files visible, so you can find them more easily if and when needed.

From the Windows Control Panel, access your Folder Options menu, then match the settings of the picture below, and finally click Apply and Ok.

Video Clips EO9

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0200

Here's a list of short video clips on various features & functions of the software.

As a general rule, the RAR file link will be a zipped, high-quality AVI file, and WinRar will be required to unzip it.  WinRar can be downloaded for free at www.RarLab.com.

The YouTube version will be of lesser quality than the original AVI file, and it may have some notes added to it, to compensate for the poorer visibility of the video clip (YouTube quality).

Some videos are too large to be uploaded, therefore not all videos listed below are available for download, however they all are available for viewing.

Title: EOV0009 - Video Card settings (EO9)
Description: Video settings on EO9 for maximum performance
Original Date: March 24, 2009
Length / Size: 0:19 min / 244 KB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0010 - Changing colors of DST via Object Manager (D50v9)
Description: Using the Object Manager on v9 to quickly change colors of various stitch groups
Original Date: March 26, 2009
Length / Size: 0:17 min / 462 KB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0011 - Resequencing sections of DST (D50v9)
Description: Using the Sequence View on v9 to quickly change the sewing sequence of a stitch file
Original Date: March 30, 2009
Length / Size: 0:54 min / 831 KB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0012 - Fixing a letter (D50v9)
Description: Forcing a letter to reconnect at different entry / exit points
Original Date: April 8, 2009
Length / Size: 1:29 min / 771 KB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0014 - PhotoStitch (EO9)
Description: Converting picture of the Joker into stitches via PhotoStitch
Original Date: January 9, 2009
Length / Size: 1:04 min / 629 KB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0015 - PhotoStitch (EO9)
Description: Converting picture of a fisherman into stitches via PhotoStitch
Original Date: July 1, 2009
Length / Size: 1:11 min / 1.59 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0016 - 2-Color Lettering on TTF (D50v9)
Description: Setting up True Type Fonts to sew out with a satin stitch outline on satin stitch text
Original Date: February 10, 2010
Length / Size: 8:12 min / 6.69 MB
Links:     YouTube

Title: EOV0017 - Vectorizing Letters for Auto Outlines (D65v9)
Description: Adding automatic Satin Stitch outlines to Digitized Fonts, including vectorization of multiple segments prior to applying auto outline
Original Date: February 11, 2010
Length / Size: 9:33 min / 8.31 MB
Links:     YouTube

Title: EOV0018 - Resequencing via Navigation Bar (D50v9)
Description: Using the Navigation Bar to change the color sequence of a design
Original Date: February 12, 2010
Length / Size: 5:02 min / 5.05 MB
Links:     YouTube

Title: EOV0019 - Satellite View (D50v9)
Description: Navigating around your design using the Satellite View
Original Date: February 12, 2010
Length / Size: 4:19 min / 7.54 MB
Links:     YouTube

L0101. Thread Connectors in Stitch & Print v9

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0200

This article applies to EO Stitch & Print v9

When you load embroidery files on Stitch & Print, you may end up with some unsightly threads connecting various parts of your design.

While this factor depends largely on the design file itself and how it was digitized, you may find that a simple tweak will help you remove most if not all those loose threads.

With your embroidery design already on the Stitch & Print screen, click on the Simulation Properties icon, located in the area at the top left corner of the screen.

Once the Simulation Properties window comes up, reduce the Trim setting.

Important! Keep in mind that the lower this number is, the more threads you'll be removing from the screen, not just the unsightly connecting threads but also actual stitches.  So, it's best to reduce the number one notch at a time, then hit Apply to see the changes on the screen, until you reach desired results.

Of course, you can always save the simulated design as a graphic file, BMP or JPG, then use your graphic software accordingly if you need further graphic editing.

You will find however that, when the simulation is combined with a 3D model, it's only the longest connecting threads that are visible. And the above tweak should take care of those!

L0082. EO9 & PLT files

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0200

When you're using Embroidery Explorer in any shape or form, ie. saving designs, exporting stitch files, loading artwork, importing stock designs, etc, browsing through folders that contain PLT files will cause the application to lock up *IF* the view mode is set to pictures. Setting the view mode to anything other than pictures will not cause the lock up.

L0081. Can't open older DSG files on v9.xx

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0200

The v9.00 through v9.02 releases of EO9 present an issue when trying to open DSG files from versions 7.xx and earlier, particularly if such files have text strings that have not been turned into sections in the original version.

Version 9.02A will address this issue, however it MUST be installed over v9.02.  If you're not on v9.02 already, make sure you upgrade to v9.02 via LiveUpdate or Service Center.

Once you're on v9.02, deploy the patch listed below to bring your system up to v9.02A and to address the issue of reading the older DSG files mentioned above.

Note: if you started using this software on v8.xx or v9.xx, and never had v7.xx or earlier, this patch will make no improvements over your current v9.xx release. This patch is only for users reading DSG files from earlier versions that also have text strings that have not been converted to sections. If you're not sure if you need it, you most likely don't.

Download both RAR files listed below to your Desktop, use WinRar to open the "part1" file, then double-click on the EO902SPA.EXE file inside to execute the patch. Make sure all EO programs are closed when you run this EXE file.

Note: this patch is not available via LiveUpdate or Service Center because the issue it will address will be encountered on a very limited number of instances.

L0080. Tree View window on v9.xx

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0200

This issue has been addressed on v9.20.

If you resize the Tree View window on v9.00 through v9.02, you may not be able to bring it back without a full reinstall.

If you run into this scenario however, there is an easier fix:

Close all open Embroidery Office programs.
Download the ZIP file listed below to find a file inside called TREE.REG.
Copy this TREE.REG file to your Desktop, then double-click on it to execute it.
Answer "yes" when prompted to add the info to the Windows Registry.

L0079. McAfee incompatibility with v9.00

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0200

There's an incompatibility issue between the original EO9 release (v9.00) and McAfee antivirus products. There is however a version that addresses this issue, v9.01.

L0078. EO Clean for v9

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:00:00 +0200

Download the attached ZIP file, then extract the 2 files inside to the Windows Desktop of the computer running EO9, and finally execute the EoClean.EXE file.

Press Clean for a complete removal of Sierra files, or press Shift+Clean for a complete removal of Sierra files plus 3rd-party files installed by EO9, i.e. Borland, etc.

Note: EO Clean should be used after a regular uninstall from the Windows Control Panel >> Add / Remove Programs.

Video clips EO8

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 12:00:00 +0200

Here's a list of short video clips on various features & functions of the software.

As a general rule, the RAR file link will be a zipped, high-quality AVI file, and WinRar will be required to unzip it.  WinRar can be downloaded for free at www.RarLab.com.

The YouTube version will be of lesser quality than the original AVI file, and it may have some notes added to it, to compensate for the poorer visibility of the video clip (YouTube quality).

Title: EOV0001 - Arc Lettering (ED1v831)
Description: Setting up text on Edit I v8.31
Original Date: June 27, 2008
Length / Size: 2:59 min / 2.63 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0002 - Fill Lettering (ED1v831)
Description: Changing Satin Fonts to Fill Stitches on Edit I v8.31
Original Date: June 28, 2008
Length / Size: 1:27 min / 1.04 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR file

Title: EOV0003 - Inserting color changes on DST (ED1v831)
Description: Adding color changes to a DST on Edit I v8.31
Original Date: July 8, 2008
Length / Size: 0:59 min / 1.57 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR File

Title: EOV0004 - Opening designs (EO831)
Description: Answer to a post re: possible time delays during input / output on v8.31
Original Date: September 2, 2008
Length / Size: 1:18 min / 1.15 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR File

Title: EOV0005 - Inserting trims on DST (ED1v831)
Description: Adding trims to a DST on Edit I v8.31
Original Date: July 8, 2008
Length / Size: 1:45 min / 2.54 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR File

Title: EOV0006 - Text in Sequins (PROv831)
Description: Setting up text for sequin device on Maxx Pro v8.31
Original Date: September 16, 2008
Length / Size: 2:54 min / 1.49 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR File

Title: EOV0007 - Satin borders on Satin TTFs (MAXXv831)
Description: Setting up 2-color TTF text (Satin on Satin) on Maxx v8.31
Original Date: June 27, 2008
Length / Size: 2:12 min / 1.05 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR File

Title: EOV0008 - NameDrop on grid (PROv831)
Description: Setting up patches via NameDrop in Grid mode on Maxx Pro v8.31
Original Date: June 28, 2008
Length / Size: 2:17 min / 1.48 MB
Links:     YouTube     RAR File

Title: EOV0013 - Satin to Fill on a DST (MAXXv831)
Description: Changing from satins to fills on a DST file on Maxx v8.31
Original Date: July 8, 2008
Length / Size: 0:24 min / 503 KB
Links:     YouTube     RAR File

L0077. EO Clean for v8

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 12:00:00 +0200

Updated for v8.30

Unzip the contents of the attached ZIP file to the computer running EO8, then open it and execute the EoClean.EXE file.

Press Clean for a complete removal of Sierra files, or press Shift+Clean for a complete removal of Sierra files plus 3rd-party files installed by EO8, i.e. Borland, etc.

Note: EO Clean should be used after a regular uninstall from the Control Panel.

L0076. Standard toolbar configuration on EO8

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 12:00:00 +0200

This article applies to v8.xx, levels Edit II and higher (Design Maxx shown below)

Below is a picture of the standard toolbar configuration in your EO8 software when installed for the first time.  You can right-click on any toolbar to access the list of toolbars, where you'll be able to turn them on or off by simply clicking on them.

You can also move a toolbar to a different place on the screen by simply clicking on it and dragging it to its new location. Make sure you don't click on an actual icon on the toolbar, but rather on an empty spot within the toolbar, usually somewhere around the edges.

L0075. Direct Connect on earlier versions

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:00:00 +0200

This article applies to v7.xx and earlier.

Click on the link below to open a PDF file explaining how to setup the Direct Connect feature on earlier versions of the software (EO v7.xx and earlier).

Note: this PDF explains how to setup an SWF machine.  Email us if you need the same documentation available for other models.

Important: if you are on version 8 and above, this article DOES NOT apply to you.  Read here for setting up Direct Connect on v8, and read here for the actual transfer methods available for the different machines.

L0074. Sorting Colors on 2-Color Fonts on EO8

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Two-Color Fonts are basically made up of 2-color characters.  When you use one of these Fonts, by default the software will create the text one character at a time.

What this means is that, if you type the word FROG, you will end up with many more color changes than the 2 colors you see on the screen.

The reason this happens is because, even though each letter has the same 2 colors, the software generates one letter at a time, therefore creating first the 2 colors for the F, followed by the 2 colors of the R, and so on.

As a result, the "2-color text" you just created ends up having a total of 8 colors when you take it to the machine to sew.  You can confirm this through your Navigation Bar.

The fix is very simple.  There is a setting in your Text Properties window that can force the software to group together all objects of the same color in a text string.  This way, you can choose whether you want to sew out body-outline, body-outline, etc (as shown above), or to sew out the body of all letters at once, followed by the outline of all letters, thus having a true 2-color design.

This setting is appropriately called "Sort Colors", and you will find it in the Stitch Type category of your lettering window, under the Lettering group of your Advanced panel.

With the Sort Colors setting set to "yes", the software will generate all bodies first, followed by all outlines.  Your Navigation Bar will confirm in this case that it is indeed a 2-color design.

Note: there is an untold benefit in having 2-color text sew out one character at a time - registration.

When you sew out the body of a letter immediately followed by its outline, you will "trap" those stitches in, preventing further shifting and thus possible registration issues.

On the other hand, when you sew out the bodies of all the letters first, the machine goes through quite a few stitches between the body of the F and the outline of the F, and it also travels to the opposite end of the design before coming back to the first letter.  Therefore, the stitches of the body of the F might have shifted by the time the outline sews out, possibly creating a gap between body and outline.

While proper backing and hooping techniques will help minimize this issue, be aware that the convenience of less color changes comes with the potential risk of having registration gaps.  Therefore, choose accordingly when to use the Sort Colors setting.

L0073. December 2007

Sat, 22 Dec 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Open the file from the link below to read the MySierraSoftware Newsletter (December 2007).

L0072. Losing color changes when exporting a DST

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 12:00:00 +0200

DESCRIPTION

After exporting a design to DST format, some color changes seem to disappear, however the original design (DSG) does retain the right colors.

CAUSE

Tajima files replace color change commands by stops, and embroidery machines only read stitch files such as DST (not wireframe or DSG files).

A DST file will always start with "color 1", regardless of what needle is assigned for it at the machine at the time of sewing. That needle assignment simply tells the machine which needle to use to sew out that first color, but this first group of stitches continues to be "color 1" as far as the DST file is concerned (what color tile was used on the software to create that first color has no effect on this either).

If the second color of a design was digitized with color tile #1 on the software however, a different scenario plays out at the time of exporting the stitch file (DST).

By creating the second color of a design using color tile #1 on the software, no actual color change takes place between the first two colors of the design.  The DST still thinks the first color is "color 1" regardless of what color tile was used on the software.
And when the second color of the design is digitized with color tile #1, then the software doesn't see a change between these two groups (it goes from "color 1" to "color 1").  This is where the DST file will lose a color change, even though the original design will continue to retain the right colors.

Note: having the second color of the design digitized with color tile #1 on the software is NOT the only scenario that will cause this.  Having the third color of a design created with color tile #2 on the software will produce the same results, as will creating the fourt color of a design with color tile #3 and so on.

SOLUTION

Using a sequential color order when creating things on the software is a good way to ensure the proper color sequence is being exported to the DST file.

This means that the first color should be created with color tile #1 on the software, the 2nd color with color tile #2, third color with color tile #3 and so on.

Note: if a different color is desired for any specific color tile, it is NOT recommended to choose a different color tile for any digitized object, for this may actually affect the final color sequence on the DST file, as explained above.  It is recommended instead to simply edit the color being displayed for that color tile being used.

L0071. Connected Monograms on EO8

Wed, 5 Dec 2007 12:00:00 +0200

To ensure that your Monograms always connect at the optimal point, make sure you enable in the Object Inspector the setting called Connected.

1. Setup your Monogramming text. When the text comes up on the screen, click off the box (or just hit Enter) to generate stitches.  If the letters are not connected, they may look something like this:

2. If it wasn't already on, turn on your Object Inspector:

3. Now, click on the Edit Objects icon:

4. Your Monogram will automatically be highlighted.  Look in the Object Inspector for the Connected setting, and set it to "yes".

5. That's it!  Your Monogram will now be connected at the closest point between letters.

Note: the Connected setting will not be available if the Object Inspector is set to the Beginner's level. Change accordingly from the pull-down menu at the top right corner:

L0070 - November 2007

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Open the file from the link below to read the MySierraSoftware Newsletter (November 2007).

L0069. Sharp corners

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Have you ever had a straight column of satin stitches on the screen that sews out crooked on the garment, as if the stitches were getting narrower the closer they got to the corner?

Here are 2 different ways to digitize what would seem to be fairly simple straight columns that go around a corner:

Of course the first shape has three times the number of nodes the second shape has, so at first it would make sense to go for the second method.  However, does the fact that you have less digitized nodes translate into the same or better quality?

Let's take a closer look.

On the second shape, the software is asked to start stitches at the same angle of the corner where the nodes are entered. Then, because the next set of nodes does not appear until the next corner, the software will gradually turn the stitches as it moves along that segment to match the angle of the next corner.

As a result, there is only a small portion of stitches in that segment that will actually sew out at a perfectly horizontal or perfectly vertical angle.  All other stitches in that segment will sew out at varying angles, which in turn translates into the stitches pulling differently on the garment at the time of sewing.

The first shape however will generate stitches that are straight for a longer portion of that segment, because of the additional set of nodes entered before and after each corner.

The more angled the stitch, the more it pulls on the garment, for it's not only doing your everyday left-to-right pull, or your top-to-bottom pull, but now it's also pulling at an angle at the same time.

Normally, this would not be an issue *IF* all the stitches of that segment pulled at the same angle.  But when you have a straight column where the stitches pull at different angles every step of the way, this is when you start getting inconsistent column widths on the sewout.

In this case, the column on the sewout of the 2nd shape will get narrower and narrower as the stitches get close to the corners, because that's when they have the largest angle, therefore creating the most pull on the garment.

So, the next time you are trying to figure out why your straight columns on the screen don't turn out straight columns in your sewout, remember that adding an extra set of nodes before and after a corner will go a long way in creating not only truly straight columns but also sharper-looking corners.

Note: using Short Stitches on the example above also helps with the sharp looks in corners, while alleviating possible thread breakage issues along the inside edge of a corner due to the increased stitch presence.

L0020. New on v6.93

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Version 6.93 mainly incorporates the ability to read vector artwork (WMF files), but it also addresses a few minor issues from previous releases.

v6.93 highlights:

All levels of Design can now read WMF format (Windows Metafile).
You may automatically convert a WMF file to a bitmap graphic by selecting the corresponding option from the Tools-Options menu.
When the WMF is converted to bitmap format, the software will prompt you for the size of the bitmap graphic upon the conversion. It will show the size of the original WMF file as the default option.
WMF files that are converted to bitmap will follow raster image standards, which means they can be used with Auto Trace, AID and Shoot & Stitch modes.  WMF files that have not been converted to bitmap can only be used with Shoot & Stitch mode.  Manual digitizing mode can be used with all images.
WMF graphics are usually created by overlapping separate shapes to combine them into the final design.  This example shows a graphic that was created by overlapping individual shapes.

The Tools-Options menu has an option that allows processing such images, so only the visible area of each layer is considered when using Shoot & Stitch.
In the higher levels, previously saved artwork can now be embedded into the DSG wireframe file. The saved artwork file can then be safely removed, for it will be stored inside the DSG file once it's attached. Use Attach to Design option to embed your saved artwork file into the DSG file (red circle below).  If the artwork was scanned and has not been saved yet, you can save it first (blue circle below), then attach it to the design (red circle below). The artwork must be selected on the screen for the Attach to Design feature to become available.

Note: WMF files will always be embedded into the DSG file, unless they have been converted to bitmap, in which case they can be attached to the design via above method.
When the setting for Jagged Edges was on, traveling stitches or Under Path (not Underlay) in Complex Fills would appear distorted. This has been corrected in v6.93.
AID does now generate all sections of a design arranged by color.
French and Turkish languages have been added to EO Design (other EO applications already had them).
The Network Neighborhood icon in Embroidery Explorer is now disabled by default on Windows 2000 & XP.  You may turn it back on ("enable") from the right-click menu.  If on earlier versions your system took a long time when reading, writing, importing, exporting or otherwise executing input & output routines, it is recommended to leave this option disabled.
The design transfer limit of 400,000 stitches via Direct Connect has been lifted.

L0068. Direct Connect (serial)

Wed, 5 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Note: this article applies to machines that communicate via serial port only, ie. SWF, Toyota, Brother, using Direct Connect in EO8 & EO9 (for EO v7 and earlier, click here).

With your design on the screen, click on the Send To Machine icon.

Note: you can also use Embroidery Explorer to locate your design if you don't want to load it on your screen.  Navigate through your folders and / or drives in Embroidery Explorer, and when you find  your design, right-click on it and "Send to Machine".

The Send To Machine window appears.  Click on the machine you want to transfer the design to, which is usually Serial 1 unless you changed the name or have more than one machine connection installed. Then click Send.

The Machine Transfer window appears, showing the design information and a thumbnail preview. Click Send.

At this point, promptly prepare your embroidery machine to accept the information being transferred.

IMPORTANT!  Refer to your embroidery machine User Manual to follow the steps to read designs via external serial connection (not floppy or network).  However, below are some examples of Direct Connect configurations and data reading instructions.

Note: the settings and instructions below have been successfully tested with the machines indicated, however due to the changing nature of machine firmware, we can not guarantee these settings will work with your particular machine.

SWF:

Older controllers (1201T, older compacts)	Newer controllers (Dual-F, "E" series, see below)
Turn machine on	Turn machine on
Press EMB CALL	Press INPUT
Go to #3 (ext input), press SET	Choose SERIAL INPUT
Go to #3 (serial), press SET twice	Choose COPY
After transfer is done, SET for job #

Models tested: 1501T "B", 1506DF "C", 902DF "B", 601C "E", 1501T "E", MA-6, 1502DM

TOYOTA:

Newer models (850)	Older models (820A, 830)
*Turn machine on*	*Turn machine on*
*Hit SET to initialize the hoop*	Press START POINT ("Emb Start" appears)
Press START POINT ("Emb Start" appears)	*Hit SET and INPUT*
*Hit DATA and SET*	Press 01 and hit SET (DATA light blinks)
Press 01 and hit SET (DATA light blinks)

BROTHER:

 Turn machine on

 Press END until you reach the File menu ("File No xx" appears on the display)

 Select an empty memory slot with the left / right arrow keys, then hit ENTER

 Press the "#" key to change the Selection mode to TAPE

 Use down arrow key for Tajima format ("Tajima" appears on the display), then hit ENTER

TAJIMA:

 

 Turn machine on

 Press the A key until the menu shows number "4"

 To choose the design format, turn the dial until it shows "T"

 Press SET to select a memory slot, press SET again to accept the data

L0067. Setting up Direct Connect (serial)

Tue, 4 Sep 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Note: this article explains how to setup Direct Connect in EO8 & EO9; for instructions on how to transfer designs once Direct Connect has been setup, click here; for Direct Connect setup and instructions on v7 or earlier, click here.

Go to Start >> All Programs >> Embroidery Office >> EO Explorer (or Embroidery Explorer).

When Embroidery Explorer appears, click on the last icon on the toolbar to open the Machine Connection Manager.

When the Machine Connection Manager opens, pull down the Add Machine menu and click on the Direct Machine option.

Select Direct Machine and hit Next.  Then, select Serial and hit Next.

Next comes the Machine Properties window.  Select the proper machine model from the Machine pull-down list.  If needed, also change your Port setting to match the serial port on the back of your computer to which the cable of your embroidery machine is connected. Hit Finish when done.

Note: the Profile setting usually does not need to be changed since the default option will work fine.  If there's a problem with your Direct Connect, it's more likely because of the cable itself or the wrong port setting or the machine control panel - not because of the Profile setting.

Note: the text on the Name field does not affect the functionality of the Direct Connect, so you can replace the default "Serial 1" name by your own if you wish, i.e. "My Machine", "Store Front", etc.  This field only provides a reference name.

Your Machine Connection Manager will now show the machine connection you just added.

Your embroidery machine is now ready to accept designs transferred via Direct Connect from your Sierra software.

Note: a serial null modem cable is required for this setup.  Make sure it has the proper connectors, usually DB9F connectors on each end.

L0066. Editing Entry & Exit Points

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0200

CHALLENGE

Running stitches sewing on top of Satin stitches (see "belly" of letter "d").

SYNOPSIS

The letter "d" in Lucida font will create a pass of Running stitches that sew on top of the Satin stitches on the "belly" section, IF a Fixed Pull Compensation setting is being applied to it.

Likewise, using Proportional Pull Compensation, or using no Pull Compensation at all, will not create the above scenario, however the idea of this article is to learn to make nodes work for you on every situation, such as the one above.

THEORY

Every digitized segment is produced after the software applies a mathematic process to the information provided, i.e. Nodes, Direction lines, Density, etc.

The combinations are endless, which is why the resulting stitches of an object will look different every time you change information on the design.  Therefore, adjusting Direction lines, Densities, Nodes, etc, will yield different results, each time being the work of a mathematic stitch generation process that takes place with every new piece of information added to the puzzle.

In this vast spectrum of possibilities, there is always room for any particular combination of nodes and settings to generate unintended results, such as the pass of Running Stitches above mentioned.

SOLUTION

Once the culprit has been detected, you can simply reverse the offending piece of information.  In this case, the Fixed Pull Compensation setting seems to be the reason behind the unintended Running Stitches over the top of the Satin Stitches.

Reversing this setting (i.e. no Pull Compensation), or even changing to a Proportional setting, would avoid the above results.  At times however, a particular setting may be needed, while at other times it may just not be easy to find the offending node or setting.

So, before you enter a wild goose chase, keep in mind that simply moving the Entry or Exit Point of a segment can also bring about a new stitch generation, and with it a whole new set of results.

Moving Entry / Exit Points also has an added benefit, which is the ability for you to be in charge of the sewing sequence within any given object (i.e., by moving the Exit Point of an object to one end of it, you are forcing the software to generate stitches that culminate the sewing on that selected end).

CONCLUSION

The first step in trying to figure out what issues any given object may have is to look at its wireframe, which you can do by clicking on the corresponding icon to enter Edit Object mode (E is the keyboard shortcut).

Once you enter this mode, simply click on the object to highlight its wireframe.  Our letter "d" happens to be a string of text that has not been converted to sections yet, therefore more than one click will be necessary to access its nodes.

Upon taking a closer look, we can see that the problem spot might be where the two ends of the belly come together, yet we know this is not a problem when the Pull Compensation setting is Proportional, or when we have no Pull Compensation.

So, before entering the wild goose chase above referenced to find the right combination, it just makes more sense to force the software into completing the Satin Stitches of that object in one continuous motion, which we can do by simply moving the Exit Point just outside the section. After doing so, we can generate stitches and confirm that the offending stitches have been eliminated.

L0065. Machine Code Interpreter

Thu, 9 Aug 2007 12:00:00 +0200

What's the Machine Code Interpreter?

When you import a stitch file (Tajima DST, Toyota 10o, Melco EXP, Barudan U01, etc), the software will process your design through a series of machine macros or parameters to ensure proper transfer of all machine commands to the stitch file you are about to load.

Examples of machine macros include the ability to load a design with stop commands instead of color changes, as well as to clean the stitch file of unnecessary commands that may have been part of the original design, i.e. empty or ghost jumps at the beginning of a file.

This process happens in the background, at the time of importing the actual stitch file into the software.  The tool that contains these machine macros is the Machine Code Interpreter.

Do I need to setup the Machine Code Interpreter?

Yes.  After you set up the Machine Code Interpreter the way you want it, the software will apply that set of machine parameters to all stitch files you import.

Except this first time however, usually you won't need to continuously edit or setup your Machine Code Interpreter.

How do I know which Machine Code Interpreter to use?

Machine Code Interpreters are directly linked to the machine format of the design being imported.  Therefore the software will apply the Tajima Standard Machine Code Interpreter to all Tajima designs you read (DST file).

Likewise, the software will apply the Barudan Standard Machine Code Interpreter to all Barudan designs you read (U01 file), the Melco Standard Machine Code Interpreter to all Melco designs you read (EXP file), the Toyota Standard Machine Code Interpreter to all Toyota designs you read (10o file), and so on.

What settings do I need to change, if any?

Because DST files are the most widely used embroidery files, we will set our Machine Code Interpreter to Tajima Standard.

To access any Machine Profile on EO v8.xx, simply go to Setup >> Machine Code Interpreter >> Read Interpreter Library.

From the Name pull-down list, choose Tajima Standard, and then simply match the settings below.  When you're done, hit Apply, then click OK out of the window.

Note: it may happen that you're at the Import window, about to load a stitch file, when you realize you need to perform a change to your Machine Code Interpreter.  In this case, you can access the Machine Code Interpreter Library right from the Import window by using the pull-down list at the bottom right corner of the window, next to Open / Cancel buttons.

L0064. Machine Profile

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0200

What's the Machine Profile?

When you export a design as a stitch file (Tajima DST, Toyota 10o, Melco EXP, Barudan U01, etc), the software will process your design through a series of machine macros or parameters to ensure proper transfer of all machine commands to the stitch file.

Examples of machine macros include the ability to dictate the stitch length after which the embroidery machine will engage the trimmers, regardless of the presence or not of an actual trim command in the design.  Other examples may be the ability to automatically center designs upon export, or to set the number of jump stitches required for a trim command (see TIP below).

TIP: did you know that a DST stitch file (Tajima code) does not recognize an actual TRIM command?  This file format engages the trimmers of an embroidery machine by way of consecutive jump stitches in a row, usually 3.  This means that an embroidery machine will perform a trim when it encounters

This process of machine macros takes place in the background so to speak, at the time of exporting the actual design into a stitch file.  The tool that contains these machine macros is called the Machine Profile.

Do I need to setup the Machine Profile?

After you set up the Machine Profile the way you want it, the software will apply that set of machine parameters to your designs every time you export stitch files in a specified machine format.

Except this first time, usually you won't need to continuously edit or setup your Machine Profile.

How do I know which Machine Profile to use?

Machine Profiles are directly linked to the machine format a design is being exported to.  Therefore the software will apply the Tajima Standard Machine Profile to all designs being exported in Tajima format (DST file).

Likewise, the software will apply the Barudan Standard Machine Profile to all designs being exported in Barudan format (U01 file), the Melco Standard Machine Profile to all designs being exported in Melco format (EXP file), the Toyota Standard Machine Profile to all designs being exported in Toyota format (10o file), and so on.

What settings do I need to change, if any?

In this case, we'll export our designs in standard Tajima format (DST files), so the Tajima Standard Machine Profile is the one we want to set up.

To access any Machine Profile on EO v8.xx, simply go to Setup >> Machine Profile >> Machine Profile Library.

From the Machine Profile pull-down list, choose Tajima Standard, and then simply match the settings below (items circled in red are most important ones).

Finally, when you're done simply hit Apply, then hit Set as Default, and click OK out of the window.  Your Tajima Standard Machine Profile will now be set for any designs you export in DST format from now on (of course, until you change it again should you decide to do so).

Note: it may happen that you're at the Export window, about to create a stitch file, when you realize you need to perform a change to your Machine Profile.  In this case, you can access the Machine Profile Library right from the Export window by using the pull-down list at the bottom right corner of the window, next to Save / Cancel buttons.  The changes performed then will also affect every design you export from then on.

L0063. Assigning Shortcuts

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0200

This article is for v8.20, however the concept is the same for earlier versions as well.

The toolbars in your software will usually display the most commonly used commands.  There are many other commands hidden on menus, and on submenus of menus.

If there's any given command that you perform often enough, you may be ready to find another way to execute it other than digging in menus. Why not assign a shortcut to it!

A shortcut is basically a set of keystrokes that, when pressed together at the same time, will execute whatever command is assigned to that shortcut.

A shortcut can be simply a one-key stroke (i.e. P to activate the Path tool, F8 to toggle the Object Inspector on / off), or a multi-key stroke (i.e. Ctrl+C to Copy, Shift+F12 to view or hide needle marks, etc).  Some shortcuts can be even made up of 3 different keystrokes, i.e. Shift+Ctrl+F11 to view or hide the Design Start / End Points.

To assign a shortcut to any given command, first you must know what the command is actually called and, if possible, know which category it belongs to.  For instance, the Measure and Scale command is in the Edit category, while the Show Crosshairs will be in the Show & Hide category.

For this exercise, let 's say we want to assign a shortcut to the Insert Nodes command. We know that you can only insert nodes to objects, therefore this command will probably be listed under one of the Object categories.

To assign the shortcut:

Click on Setup >> Shortcuts.
On the left column, locate the category the command belongs to, in this case the Insert Nodes command belongs to the Object - Elements category. (if you're not sure, you can always look under All Commands)
Locate and select the desired command.
Click on the Shortcut box below it (if there is already a shortcut assigned, or you assigned the wrong one, you can always hit the Backspace on your keyboard until "None" shows in the box).
Now, simply type the set of keystrokes you want to assign to that command.  In our case, we'll use Ctrl+Alt+I, since it's easy to associate I to the Insert command.
Then hit the green check mark, then hit Close when done.

That's it!  From now on, every time you hit the shortcut on your keyboard, the software will perform the Insert Nodes command.

L0062. Installing Optional Components (Fonts, etc)

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0200

When purchasing additional Components for your EO8 system, you may be purchasing:
- Components that are already stored in your software, such as the ones that show with padlocks when you browse through your Font Library, or...
- additional Components from the Service Center, in which case you will receive a link to download an EXE file containing those optional Components

You will also receive a password, where the filename will have your serial number as part of the name, along with the SCP extension (as in Sierra Component Password).

This SCP password file will enable your optional Components.  Just having the optional Components copied to your system will not be enough to use them. You still have to unlock them with this SCP password.

Note: you must save this SCP password file on the same system where you will be using the optional Fonts.  The installation will not work if you just leave the password on the email where you received it.

So, once the Components are copied to your system, the next step is to enable them.  To do this, simply go to Start >> All Programs >> Embroidery Office >> EO Setup.

Once the EO Setup window appears, simply choose Enable purchased Design Components, then select the appropriate SCP file, then Install.

After the password has been processed by the system, your Components will be ready for use (if your EO8 program was open, you must close and open it again for the changes to take effect).

L0061. Unlocker (for copying files)

Sun, 15 Jul 2007 12:00:00 +0200

There are different ways in which you can choose to perform regular maintenance on your embroidery computer, whether you backup your designs, reorganize them into individual folders on your hard drive, burn them to CDs, store them online, etc.

As part of that process, it's not uncommon to be in the middle of copying, renaming and/or deleting files when Windows tells you that it can't delete certain file or folder or that the destination file is being used - when it's not anymore. And then you either have to reboot just to complete that task, or wait until the next time you have to reboot to do it.

Solution? Unlocker (freeware).

L0060. Can't open certain files on v7.xx

Sat, 23 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0200

This article applies to earlier releases of v7.xx only.

Version 7 incorporated the Hoop Library feature, which gives you the ability to display Hoops on the screen, create your own Hoops, edit existing ones, etc.

These Hoops are stored in the C:\Program Files\Common Files\Sierra\Hoops folder of your hard drive, and they are saved as HPS files.

Hoops are actual components.  When you are working on a design, if you have a Hoop turned on in the background at the time of saving that design, then that Hoop becomes associated to that design.

If you try to open that design on another computer, you may get an error message if the software can't find the Hoop file associated to that design. This means the HPS hoop file needs to be present also on the second computer for the design to load properly.

Because this happens on earlier releases of v7.xx only, one solution is to simply update your install to v7.50, where this issue has been addressed so a DSG file will open regardless of a missing Hoop file.

Or, you may also copy the missing HPS Hoop file from the original computer onto the computer where you are getting the error message.

The folder above described is where you will find the Hoop files on the original computer, and it's the same folder on the new computer where those HPS files need to be saved.

L0059. EO8 Requirements (chart)

Sat, 2 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Recognizing that most computers available for sale today will meet the EO8 requirements in most categories, the simplified chart listed below was created with the intention to concentrate mainly in the 3 areas where hardware will greatly affect the performance of your EO8 software - processor, memory and video.

If you have specific questions about the complete computer requirements, make sure you review the appropriate list for Windows XP and for Windows Vista.

SIERRA recommends INTEL PENTIUM processors and NVIDIA video cards

XP	Minimum	Recommended
Processor	Intel P4; 2.4 GHz	Intel P4; 3.2 GHz
Memory	512 MB RAM	1 GB RAM
Video	128 MB video card	256 MB video card

VISTA	Minimum	Recommended
Processor	Intel P4; 2.8 GHz	Intel Dual Core; 2.4 GHz
Memory	1 GB RAM	2 GB RAM
Video	256 MB video card	512 MB video card

L0058. EO8 Computer Requirements for Windows XP

Sat, 2 Jun 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Minimum Configuration
Applies, in preferred order, to XP Pro and XP Home

Processor: Intel Pentium 4; 2.4 GHz.
Memory: 512 MB RAM.
Hard Drive space: 1 GB.
Video: 1024 x 768 True Color, w/ OpenGL Acceleration.
Video Memory: 128 MB dedicated memory.
Monitor: 17".
Optical drive: CD-R Drive; 24x speed.
Ports: USB Port for security device; additional USB, Ethernet and/or RS232 (serial) ports for Direct Connect to embroidery machine, scanner, etc.
Internet connection: valid email address for License Activation.

Recommended Configuration
Applies, in preferred order, to XP Pro and XP Home

Processor: Intel Pentium 4; 3.2 GHz.
Memory: 1 GB RAM.
Hard Drive space: 10 GB.
Video: 1024 x 768 True Color, w/ OpenGL Acceleration.
Video Memory: 256 MB dedicated memory.
Monitor: 19".
Optical drive: DVD-RW Drive; 52x speed (read).
Ports: USB Port for security device; additional USB, Ethernet and/or RS232 (serial) ports for Direct Connect to embroidery machine, scanner, etc.
Internet connection: valid email address for License Activation; broadband connection for software downloads and new releases via EO LiveUpdate.

Note I: during testing, nVidia video cards have consistently shown a better reaction to the OpenGL graphics engine than ATI cards, which makes them a more desirable choice.

Note II: screen resolutions noted in the video category refer to standard 4:3 screen format. For 16:9 widescreen format, 1280 x 720 and higher screen resolutions are suggested.

Note III: For reference purposes, Intel processors available as of Feb 1st, 2007, are:
- Pentium 4
- Pentium 4 HT
- Pentium 4 Extreme Edition HT
- Pentium D (Dual-Core)
- Pentium Extreme Edition (Dual-Core)
- Pentium Core 2 Duo (Dual-Core)
- Pentium Core 2 Quad (Quad-Core)
- Pentium Core 2 Extreme (Quad-Core)

L0057. Printing your Monograms via Component Manager

Mon, 28 May 2007 12:00:00 +0200

If you have the EO Component Manager (included on v8.xx and v9.xx), here's a quick and easy way to print your Monograms (don't miss the tip at the end of the article!):

1. Go to Start >> Programs >> Embroidery Office >> Component Manager.  When the Component Manager window appears, locate the Monograms button on the left pane.

2. All your Monograms will appear on the right pane of the Component Manager window.  Now, simply click on the Monograms you want to print, using the SHIFT key for consecutive selections, and the CTRL key for non consecutive selections.

This article assumes you only want to print those Monograms that are included in the standard Monogramming module, not the optional ones. To print both the included and optionals Monograms, simply right-click on any Monogram and choose "Select All".

3. Now, go to the File - Print menu of your Component Manager window, and you will be able to preview the Monogram printout, or you can just print using the Print icon at the top of the Preview window.

TIP: if you have PDF creation software, you can send a PDF file to your customers so they can see your Monogram Library on their computer. Just use the "Printer Setup" icon at the top of the Preview window to change the printer output to the PDF option.

L0056. v8 Modes

Sun, 27 May 2007 12:00:00 +0200

This article applies to Edit II and higher, v8.xx.

When you first install the software, you will find 2 rows of toolbars at the top of the screen.  The top toolbar is called Standard 3A, while the bottom toolbar is really 2 toolbars located next to each other, called Standard 3B and Context.

This article will concentrate on the 3B toolbar, because it contains the icons that will take you through the various modes available on v8.

The reason why becoming familiar with these 6 icons is important is because the Toolbox, vertically located below the toolbars, will change its contents depending on which mode is selected in the Toolbar 3B.

 CREATION
This is where you do all your digitizing and creation of new objects. With this mode enabled, your Toolbox will give you access to your Path, Column and Area tools, along with the Lettering icon.
Note: see chapter 4 of your User Manual for more info.

 EDIT OBJECTS
This is where you edit your wireframes.  Say that you're doing some text and you already turned it into sections; if you need to do some editing to that text after the fact, you'll want to enable this mode first so then you can click on the text wireframe, after which you'll be able to move nodes or change density and other parameters.  This mode is to edit wireframes of digitized objects - not stitches from existing stitch files (DST).
Note: see chapter 6 of your User Manual for more info.

 EDIT BLOCKS
This is where you do your Block operations.  Clicking on an object in this mode will not highlight the nodes of the object, but it will rather put a box around the whole object, so you can do block operations, i.e. copy, paste, rotate, resize, etc.  You can also move objects once you selected them as Blocks.  Again, this mode is for digitized objects, not stitch files.
Note: see chapter 8 of your User Manual for more info.

 EDIT STITCHES
This is where you do all the editing for stitch files.  If you upgraded to version 8 from an earlier version of the EO Edit program, this mode is basically where you'll find everything you could do in the old EO Edit.
Note: see chapter 7 of your User Manual for more info.

 ARTWORK
This is is where you load, scan or otherwise work with artwork to digitize, i.e. BMP or JPG files, but also WMF files.
Note: see chapter 5 of your User Manual for more info.

 VECTORS
This is where you can break vector artwork (WMF, CDR) into object figures for further graphic editing before converting to stitches. Through this mode you can also change stitch and/or wireframe objects into vector objects for additional graphic editing, provided you have the Vectorizer tool available in Maxx Pro and above.
Note: see chapter 5 of your User Manual for more info.

L0055. What embroidery formats does EO read & write?

Wed, 16 May 2007 12:00:00 +0200

As of v9.20, EO reads and writes the following embroidery formats (file extension between parentheses):

Barudan (FDR, FMC, U01)
Brother (PEC, PES, PHB, PHC)
Happy (TAP)
Husqvarna (HUS, VIP)
Inbro (INB)
Janome / Elna (SEW)
Janome / New Home (JEF)
Juki Ams (M3)
Komteck (CEM)
Melco (EXP)
Mitsubishi (100)
Pfaff (PCD, PCM, PCS, KSM)
Sierra condensed (DSG, old BCAD)
Sierra expanded (EYS, old DAT)
Singer (XXX)
Siruba (PLT)
Sunstar (SST)
Tajima (DST)
Toyota (10O)
ZSK (U01)

In addition to the above, EO also reads but does not output:

Bits and Volts (BRO)
GMI (ELA)
Wilcom (T01, T03, T05)
Tajima (DSB, DSZ)

L0054. Sierra dongles

Sat, 7 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Below is a list of which security devices Sierra software has used through the years (see pic below).

Old Parallel: this beige color device has a shell of 2" long x 1" wide (50mm x 25mm), and it was the standard device for many years. EO Numeration for this type of device reached somewhere into the 2100 series.

New Parallel: same color as the older parallel version but with a shell of only ¼" wide (6mm), this device started its numeration approximately in the 2200 series.

v7 USB: this device was actually available for the later v6 series, but most of these devices are on v7.xx software. The first USB key that was used with Sierra software, this device became available somewhere in the 3700 series, and made it all the way into the 8100 series!

v8 USB: new and propietary security device for v8, this USB key starts the 6-digit cycle with the 300000 series.

v8 USB (clear): identical device than the one before, but with a clear cover to better visualize the key signal, this device started the 301000 series.

L0053. Types of Lock Stitch

Mon, 2 Apr 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Updated for v8.xx

Here are the different types of lock Stitches available in EO:

1) CLASSIC: this one is also available on earlier versions of EO software, and it's a back-and-forth stitch placed on the last row of top stitching.  The number of needle penetrations depends on the Repetitions setting entered by the user.

2) STAR: 5 stitches in the shape of a star, or more stitches based on the Repetition setting.  The Scale setting changes the size of the lock stitch, but not the number of needle penetrations, which remains at 5 for this type of lock.

3) TWIST: 4-stitch lock; Repetitions and Scale work in the same way as on the Star type.

4) CROSS: more crowded than others, this lock stitch has a total of 6 needle penetrations; Repetitions and Scale work in the same way as on the Star type.

5) ARROW: just like the Cross type, this lock also has 6 needle penetrations, however it covers a larger area; Repetitions and Scale work in the same way as on the Star type.

L0051. Creating 2-color text from True Types on EO8

Thu, 1 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0200

This article assumes you are already familiar with the lettering process in general, so it will only concentrate on the steps needed to achieve 2-color text.

Step 1: Setting up first string of text

We will access the Lettering window and choose True Type Fonts from the Font Type pull-down menu (see 1.1 below).

Two-color lettering has more chances of success when the text is big enough to accomodate for the extra outline that will become the 2nd color. With that in mind, we are using a 2" Height and a 5mm Letter Spacing (see 1.2 and 1.3 below).

From the Stitch Type section of the Lettering window (see 2.1 below), choose the type of stitch you'll want for the main fill of your text.

In our case, we'll be doing a satin-on-satin look, which is satin stitch lettering with a satin stitch outline. So, we'll choose Column from the Stitch Mode pull-down menu (see 2.2 below).

At that point you can select one of the preset styles located below the Stitch Mode pull-down menu , but you can further adjust those preset settings by changing the parameters on the right panel of the screen (see 2.3 below).  In our case, we are setting the text to a Density of 5.80 lines/mm, and we are also making sure we have Trims and proper Lock Stitches placed on every letter.

Then we simply hit OK and the text will come up on the screen.

Aligning two separate strings of text is crucial to this process, so we didn't change the Text Layout in the above step, which by default is Straight Box.

Step 2: Preparing the Color field for the border

If your Color Bar at the bottom of the screen only shows one color, this is where you prepare a 2nd color, in preparation of the outline to come. If your Color Bar already shows more than one color, you can skip this step.

From the Palette Mode menu at the bottom left of the screen, choose Add Needle.

Next click on the Thread Chart pull-up menu to access the select a color for that previously added Needle (this is for display purposes only).

In our case, we select blue for the 2nd needle, which will then be reflected on our Needle Bar at the bottom left corner of the screen.

Step 3: Setting up second string of text

Now we access the Lettering window again.  Make sure you set the text color to the needle #2 (see 3.1 below), then enter the same text as you did on the first setup.

From the Stitch Type section of the Lettering window (see 4.1 below), set the Stitch Mode to Borderline for a satin stitch border (see 4.2 below).

At this point, we can choose from one of the various preset styles, or we can further adjust the settings from the panel on the right side of the Lettering window (see 4.3 below). In our case, we set the satin stitch border to a Density of 5.2 mm  and a Column Width of 2.2 mm, while we also placed Trims and Lock Stitches after every letter.

Now we can hit OK, and the text will appear on screen, this time in the shape of a satin stitch border in a 2nd color!

Step 4: Aligning both strings of text

If you need to accurately align each letter with its outline, first Turn Off Stitches to have only the wireframe displayed, and then use the individual kerning nodes at the bottom of each letter to line them up.

L0050. Disabling UAC on Vista

Thu, 22 Feb 2007 12:00:00 +0200

What is User Account Control? (UAC)

UAC is a Windows Vista feature that helps prevent unauthorized changes on a computer. The idea behind this concept is to prevent "malware" or "spyware" from being installed or executed on a system without knowledge from the user.
Before carrying out any action that may affect the functionality of the system, or otherwise alter configurations affecting other users on the same system, UAC will request an administrator password or permission from the user.

How does UAC affect EO8?

The very same security aspect offered by UAC also prevents access to certain folders and system resources altogether, causing some legitimate applications in need of such access to function incorrectly, or not function at all when running in such protected environment.

As of v8.11, EO falls in such category, therefore UAC must be disabled in order to run the software on Windows Vista.

Disabling UAC doesn't make your system more vulnerable than it was on previous versions of Windows, but it does remove the extra layer of security that UAC presumably offers.

Note: you don't need to permanently disable UAC; you can simply turn it off to run EO8, then turn it back on for other computer tasks if you feel compelled to do so.

Disabling UAC

Navigate to the Windows Control Panel >> User Account and Family Safety >> User Accounts >> Change Security Settings >> and then you'll have the option to disable UAC.

L0049. EO8 Computer Requirements for Vista

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Minimum Configuration
Applies to Home Premium, Business and Ultimate editions of Windows Vista

Processor: Intel Pentium 4; 2.8 GHz. (see Note 1)
Memory: 1 GB RAM.
Hard Drive space: 2 GB.
Video: 1024 x 768 True Color; Vista® Compatible; w/ OpenGL Acceleration. (see Note 2)
Video Memory: 256 MB dedicated memory
Monitor: 17".
Optical drive: CD-R Drive; 52x speed.
Ports: USB Port for security device; additional USB, Ethernet and/or RS232 (serial) ports for Direct Connect to embroidery machine, scanner, etc.
Internet connection: valid email address for License Activation.

Recommended Configuration
Applies to Home Premium, Business and Ultimate editions of Windows Vista

Processor: Intel Pentium Core 2 Duo; 2.4 GHz. (see Note 1)
Memory: 2 GB RAM.
Hard Drive space: 10 GB.
Video: 1280 x 1024 True Color; Vista® Compatible; w/ OpenGL Acceleration. (see Note 2)
Video Memory: 512 MB dedicated memory
Monitor: 19".
Optical drive: DVD-RW Drive; 52x speed (read).
Ports: USB Port for security device; additional USB, Ethernet and/or RS232 (serial) ports for Direct Connect to embroidery machine, scanner, etc.
Internet connection: valid email address for License Activation; broadband connection for software downloads and new releases via EO LiveUpdate.

Note 1: for reference purposes, Intel processors available as of Feb 1st, 2007, are:
- Pentium 4
- Pentium 4 HT
- Pentium 4 Extreme Edition HT
- Pentium D (Dual-Core)
- Pentium Extreme Edition (Dual-Core)
- Pentium Core 2 Duo (Dual-Core)
- Pentium Core 2 Quad (Quad-Core)
- Pentium Core 2 Extreme (Quad-Core)

Note 2: as of Feb 1st, 2007, only a few companies have made available to end users Vista-compatible video controllers with reliable OpenGL Acceleration performance.
Both nVidia 6200 and 6600 series and ATI Radeon X300 and X1650 PRO series have yielded acceptable results during testing performed by Sierra.
However, nVidia video cards have consistently shown a better reaction to the OpenGL graphics engine than ATI cards, which makes them a more desirable choice.
Also, screen resolutions noted in the video category refer to standard 4:3 screen format. For 16:9 widescreen format, 1280 x 720 and higher screen resolutions are suggested.

L0048. Using EO8 on Windows Vista

Thu, 8 Feb 2007 12:00:00 +0200

Important: the observations made below apply to testing performed as of Feb 1, 2007, on v8.10.  Most of the adjustments explained on this article are not necessary on v8.11, released on 2/15/07 (after this article). Disabling the UAC feature continues to be necessary on v8.11, however.

Here are some recommendations based on initial testing of EO8 running on Vista.

Testing was performed on the following configurations (processor, memory, video card):

Computer 1
- Intel Pentium IV 1.7 GHz
- 1GB RAM
- Nvidia GeForce 6200 (drivers ForceWare 100.54, 1-30-07)

Computer 2
- Intel Pentium Dual Core 1.7 GHz
- 1GB RAM
- Nvidia GeForce 6200 (drivers ForceWare 100.54, 1-30-07)

Computer 3
- Intel Pentium Dual Core 1.7 GHz
- 1GB RAM
- ATI Radeon X1650 PRO (drivers Catalyst Software Suite 7.1, 1-29-07)

Testing was performed on the following OS:
- Windows Vista Home Premium (Version 6.0, Build 6000)
- Windows Vista Business (Version 6.0, Build 6000)
- Windows Vista Home Premium (Version 6.0, Build 6000)

Testing was performed on the following version of Sierra software:
- Embroidery Office v8.10

Important Considerations

User Account Control - UAC

Designed to prevent "malware" or "spyware" from being installed or executed on a system without knowledge from the user, UAC is a Windows Vista feature that helps prevent unauthorized changes on a computer, by way of requesting an administrator password or permission from the user before carrying out any action that may affect the functionality of the system, or otherwise alter configurations affecting other users on the same system.

This very same security aspect however also prevents access to certain folders and system resources altogether, causing some legitimate applications to function incorrectly or not function at all in such protected environment.

To run Embroidery Office 8 on Windows Vista, the user must have an administrator account and must also turn off the UAC feature.

The online help available in Vista offers information on how to deactivate the UAC feature (Control Panel >> User Accounts).

Video

The video subsystem is where Windows Vista introduces its most important changes, starting with Aero (the codename for the User Interface in Vista).  Features like the transparency mode in Aero and a new method for handling graphics require a heavier, more intense use of the video subsystem than previous Operating Systems ever did.

From Nvidia’s web site (www.nvidia.com)
Your graphics card is probably the most important upgrade you can make in a computer that's less than four years old. That's because Vista's Aero interface draws heavily upon the graphics card. Not having enough graphics card memory will not allow you to experience Vista as it is intended to be used.

From Nvidia’s web site, in reference to Intel’s web site (www.nvidia.com)
In some PC’s, especially if limited by integrated graphics, some games and applications perform poorly or won’t run at all.

From Microsoft’s web site (www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready/capable.mspx)
A new PC running Windows XP that carries the Windows Vista Capable PC logo can run Windows Vista.  All editions of Windows Vista will deliver core experiences such as innovations in organizing and finding information, security, and reliability.  All Windows Vista Capable PCs will run these core experiences at a minimum.  Some features available in the premium editions of Windows Vista - like the new Windows Aero user experiencex - may require advanced or additional hardware.

Because Windows Vista defines a new standard for video controllers (WDDM Windows Display Driver Model), video controllers from Windows XP cannot be used on this new Operating System.
While manufacturers of the main video chipsets (Intel, ATI, Nvidia, etc.) have now produced a new series of video controllers that are compatible with Windows Vista, they are only available for the latest generation of video chipsets.  What this means is that whichever video hardware features are currently available for many applications running on Windows XP, will probably not be available for the same applications running on Windows Vista.

Since the version 6.xx days, Embroidery Office has been making use of advanced video hardware features, such as Open GL acceleration and DirectX, allowing for a more natural, comfortable and appealing display of designs (transparency mode, antialias, etc).
The video features required for such results however, while present in the majority of today’s video hardware available for Windows XP, are either not present on the video controllers currently available for Windows Vista, or have considerable performance issues.

Therefore some additional settings / adjustments need to be performed by the user to address video-related challenges presented by Windows Vista.  Below are some examples:

In EO Design, certain tasks will present redraw / refresh issues in the working area, i.e. when changing from stitch editing mode to object editing mode, changing zoom levels, etc.  What the user runs into in this case is missing objects on the screen.  However, this issue does not exist if the Aero interface is disabled, or if the video acceleration within Design is set to 1.
Note: we anticipate that v8.11, to be released on March 1, 2007, will address the above issue (release date subject to change).

Artwork images being displayed in the background will not appear if you are using ATI Radeon video cards, due to those drivers not supporting certain texture compression modes. However, this issue does not exist if the video acceleration within Design is set to 1, or if you are using Nvidia video cards.
Note: we anticipate that v8.11, to be released on March 1, 2007, will address the above issue (release date subject to change).

Additional drawing issues may appear while moving floating windows, i.e. Object Inspector. Again, this issue does not exist if the Aero interface is disabled.
Note: we anticipate that v8.11, to be released on March 1, 2007, will address the above issue (release date subject to change).

EO 3D Space uses a DirectX engine that Vista no longer supports, therefore the application will fail to launch.
Note: we anticipate that a Service Pack to be released on February 15, 2007, will address the above issue (release date subject to change).

As a general observation, it is important to note that the "Windows Vista Capable" or "Windows Vista Premium Ready" logos found on computers do not necessarily guarantee the video performance required by Embroidery Office.

Summary

Installation must be performed by someone with administrator privileges (administrator account).
Disable the UAC feature to run Embroidery Office 8 on any version of Vista (it is not necessary, however, to disable the UAC feature to install the software).
The security device does not require any special drivers.
Until v8.11 becomes available, it is strongly recommended to disable the Aero interface to run Embroidery Office.
On computer systems containing video hardware for which manufacturers have no Vista drivers, the graphic performance of EO Design will be adversely affected due to missing acceleration features present in Windows XP.
On computer systems containing video hardware with Vista-compatible video controllers, performance results can be expected to be similar to those mentioned above.
If graphic performance of EO Design is otherwise adversely affected, it is suggested to disable the Aero interface to run Embroidery Office, and to set the video acceleration in Design to 1.

L0047. FilesProvider Error on EO8

Thu, 8 Feb 2007 12:00:00 +0200

If you are getting a FilesProvider Error on your Sierra software v8.05 or earlier, it's because your hard drive is being shared.

Fix: remove the "shared" attribute to address the issue, or you can just download and install v8.10 or later from the Embroidery Office Service Center.

L0046. Digitizing underlay manually in large areas

Fri, 26 Jan 2007 12:00:00 +0200

On this article we'll discuss the ability to use the Area tool, aka Complex Area or Complex Fill, to manually digitize underlay in large areas.

Case: left chest logo to be sewn on polos (piqué knit).

Challenge: logo will sew on dark background, and the relatively large fill area in the state of Texas could potentially present a stitch coverage issue.

While automatic underlay is easy and quick to generate, it may not prove to be suitable for the continuous, consistent foundation we're looking for in this case.

Possible shortcomings of manual underlay (please note settings used and other notes):

While manually digitizing underlay would provide much more control, and would also solve all of the above issues, on a large area like this it would also mean a lot of nodes to be entered, more "clicking", more time.

In this case, tracing a large area as a regular Fill area, but with a lower Density, would give us the foundation we're looking for, with a consistent stitch layout, and in a much quicker time than manually digitizing the same underlay.  The key is to trace the underlay area a tad smaller than the main fill, so it doesn't sew outside the main fill.

Below is the result of the above exercise, where you can see the consistency of the stitches.  This will provide a nice, solid foundation for the top fill, which in the end will help prevent any coverage issues on the polos.

Note underlay stitches are highlighted in black for visualization purposes only.

L0045. Can I add other brands to the Thread Database?

Wed, 3 Jan 2007 12:00:00 +0200

The Color Thread Charts available in Embroidery Office are incorporated into the program's database from factory.  At this point, users may not add other brands of thread that aren't already there, even though you can create your own Thread Charts using existing colors.

A software development company needs the complete color coding list from a thread manufacturer before that brand can be added to the program.  Not all manufacturers are willing to share this info, therefore not all thread brands are available in the program's database.

L0044. Converting Fonts from earlier versions into v8

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0200

Written for levels Maxx Pro (ART-D65) and Maxx Expert (ART-D80) of v8.

1. Launch your software, then go to the Components >> Font >> New Font menu.

2. When the Digitized Font Creation Wizard appears, hit Next.

3. Choose Convert a Digitized Font from a previous version and hit Next.

4. Choose the earlier-version Font to convert from the list and hit Next.  Note: if the Font is on a different location than the default folder for earlier-version Fonts, choose the location of the Font to be converted through the pull-down menu at the top of the window.

5. Enter the recommended sizes for the Font and hit Next.  Note: This feature works in conjunction with the size filtering function available at the time of selecting Fonts in the regular lettering window.

6. Enter a name for the Font being converted and hit Finish to complete the conversion process.

7. The Font should now be available for use with your v8 software, like all other regular Sierra Fonts!

L0043. v8 Activation (multiple)

Tue, 5 Dec 2006 12:00:00 +0200

If you are trying to use your software on more than one computer, not simultaneously, follow the procedure below for successful activation on more than one computer.

IMPORTANT: for best results, install the software and complete the activation process on one computer BEFORE you attempt to install it on a 2nd computer!

1. Install the software on the first computer.

2. To complete software activation on that first computer, follow these links for instructions:
- activate online (your software is on a computer connected to the internet)
- activate offline (your software is not on a computer connected to the internet)

3. Once the software has been installed AND activated on the first computer, proceed to install the software on the 2nd computer.
NOTE: you will need the same password (SPP file) you used on the first install.  Check with your vendor if you are not sure about your password.

4. If you properly followed the steps above, the Installation Wizard will detect that the software has already been installed and activated on another computer before this one.  In that case, choose the option to activate on multiple computers.

5. Hit Next and follow on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

6. After installation is complete on the 2nd computer, activate your software online or offline, as explained earlier.

Once you follow the above steps you will be able to successfully use the software on two computers, swapping the security device back and forth between computers.

L0042. v8 Activation (offline)

Fri, 17 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0200

When you first launch your EO v8 software, you will notice a key icon at the bottom of the Start Page, indicating how much time you have before you can activate your software.

Note: Even though you are not required to complete the activation process immediately after installing your software, it is recommended you do so at your earliest convenience, for you will not be able to access the Service Center and a few other services if your software is not activated.

If your software is NOT on a computer with internet access, please follow these steps to complete the activation process:

1. Launch EO and click on the key icon at the bottom of your software Start Page.

2. When the License Activation Wizard appears, choose the Create License Activation request option, and hit Next.

3. Fill out your information when prompted and hit Next. Please use a valid email address, you will need this information for the Service Center.

4. Choose the Email option and hit Next.

5. The software will retrieve a file from your computer so you can continue the activation process. Choose where you want to save this file and hit Finish.

Note I: Keep in mind that you will later have to submit this file from a computer with internet access, therefore recommended saving destinations include a floppy disk, a USB flash drive, a portable drive, a CD-Rom disc, etc.

Note II: This file will have the Key number as the name, followed by the ASND extension.  So if your Serial Number (your Key) is 300020, then this file will be called 300020.ASND.

6. Next, from a computer with internet access, go to the Service Center web site: www.embroideryoffice.com/eosc.  Locate the Version 8 Offline Activation section and enter your Serial Number in the space provided, then click on Continue.  Make sure you have with you that ASND file you saved as explained in the previous step.

7. Follow on-screen instructions to submit the ASND file from your software.  If properly submitted, you will receive an email from the Embroidery Office Service Center with another file in return.  You will need to take this new file back to your software to complete the activation process.

Note I: this file that will come via email will have the Serial Number (your Key) as the name, followed by the ARCV extension.  So, if your Key number is 300020, you will receive a file called 300020.ARCV.

Note II: just like it was the case when you had to take the ASND file from your software to a computer with internet access, it is now recommended to use the same media to take the ARCV file from the email back to your software, whether that media was a floppy disk, USB flash drive, portable drive, CD-Rom disc, etc.

Note III: this email sent by the Embroidery Office Service Center may take up to 48 hs, even longer if there is a key swap involved. This email will be sent to whichever email address you privided at the time of filling out the registration form (step 3).

8. Once you received the ARCV file from the Embroidery Office Service Center, take it with you back to the computer with EO software.  Launch the software and click on the key icon at the bottom of the software start page.

9. When the License Activation Wizard appears, choose Enter License Activation code and hit Next.

10. Follow on-screen instructions to indicate where the ARCV file is, so the software can complete the activation process.  A success message will appear when your software is activated.  That's it!

After this, the next time you launch your software, the key icon at the bottom of your software Start Page will be disabled, indicating your software license has been activated.

L0041. v8 Activation (online)

Fri, 17 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0200

When you first launch your EO v8 software, you will notice a key icon at the bottom of the Start Page, indicating how much time you have before you can activate your software.

If your software is on a computer with internet access, please follow these steps to complete the activation process:

1. Launch EO and click on the key icon at the bottom of your software Start Page.

2. When the License Activation Wizard appears, choose the Create License Activation request option, and hit Next.

3. Fill out your information when prompted and hit Next. Please use a valid email address, you will need this information for the Service Center.

4. Choose the Online option and hit Next. Please make sure your computer is connected to the internet.

5. Wait for the computer to communicate with the Embroidery Office web site. A success message will appear when your software is activated.  That's it!

After this, the next time you launch your software, the key icon at the bottom of your software Start Page will be disabled, indicating your software license has been activated.

L0040. Digitizing for 3D Foam (from the User Community)

Wed, 8 Nov 2006 12:00:00 +0200

Take a look at how an experienced digitizer solves the challenge of digitizing for 3D Foam embroidery.

L0038. Merging two designs in Edit I v7

Sun, 15 Oct 2006 12:00:00 +0200

This article is for Edit only, v7 or earlier.

Merging 2 stock designs in EO Edit, v7 or earlier (find a compact version of these instructions at the end of the page):

1. Load stock design A.

2. Load stock design B, which will open on separate window.

Note: because it was the last design you loaded, the window for stock design B is the one active, and in the foreground.

3. Click on Edit > Select All (or hit Ctrl+A). This will highlight the entire design stock design B.

4. Click on Edit > Copy (or hit Ctrl+C). This will copy that selected design to the clipboard for pasting. You can now close the window for stock design B, leaving only stock design A open.

5. If it's not already selected, click on the Select Stitch icon, which is the first icon on the second toolbar (or just hit S). This will enter Stitch Editing mode.

6. Using the "vcr controls" on the third toolbar, click on the Last Stitch icon (or hit Ctrl+F7). This will fast forward to the very last stitch of stock design A.

Note: if you want visual confirmation of this step, click on the List of Stitches View icon which is next to the last icon of the second toolbar (or just hit L). Once you can see the Stitch List, go to the very end of that list to double check that the very last line is selected.

7. Click on Edit > Paste (or hit Ctrl+V).  This will bring stock design B to the window.

8. Now click and drag to place stock design B where desired. When done, right-click on the screen and choose Clear Selection to deselect the stitches.

Summary:

 (File-Open to load one design, repeat for 2nd design)

  (on 2nd design, do a Select All then Copy, then close window)

   (on 1st design, enter Stitch mode, go to Last Stitch, then Paste)

 (when done, Clear All to deselect stitches)

L0037. Creating Fonts (from the User Community)

Sat, 16 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0200

Don't miss this article on Creating Fonts, explained by an actual user of the software that had the same questions you may be having now.

Find this article is in the User Community section.

Note: while the referenced article was written for v7.xx, a similar concept applies in v8!

L0036. Color blending on a budget (from the User Community)

Wed, 13 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0200

More of a visual example than a written exercise, this file in the User Community section will allow you to see how an actual user would solve the challenge of color blending by way of overlapping manual layers on top of each other.

This is the way you would approach the color blending challenge if you did not have the automatic blending feature in your software (aka Fill Gradation, found in Maxx Pro and above).

Because color blending is by nature a digitizing effect, this file is a DSG file, which means you can only open it in EO Design software (v6.93 or later).

TIP: when you load the DSG file in your EO Design software, turn on your Sequence View to see how the various objects are actually arranged.

L0035. Small Lettering (from the User Community)

Sun, 10 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0200

Don't miss this article on Small Lettering explained by an actual user of the software that had the same questions you may be having now.

Find this article is in the User Community section.

Note: while the referenced article was written for v7.xx, a similar concept applies in v8!

L0034. Trouble reading PDFs from this site?

Mon, 4 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +0200

If you're getting an "Error reading linearized hint data" when trying to open some of the PDF files on this site, follow the instructions below:

For Adobe v5
Open Adobe Acrobat Reader >> click Edit >> click Preferences >> click General (if required) >> click Options >> uncheck "Allow Fast Web View" >> click OK to save the changes.

For Adobe v6
Open Adobe Acrobat Reader >> click Edit >> click Preferences >> select "Internet" in the table on the left >> uncheck "Allow Fast Web View" >> click OK to save the changes.

L0033. Printing your Sierra Fonts on EO7

Thu, 24 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0200

On EO8, EO9 you print fonts from the Components >> Font menu (v8.xx) or from the Components >> Font ribbon (v9.xx).

If you have Embroidery Explorer v7.xx or earlier as part of your Sierra package, here is an easy way to print the Fonts from your Sierra Font Library:

Step 1: Go to Start >> Programs >> Embroidery Office >> Embroidery Explorer to launch the program.

Step 2: When Embroidery Explorer loads on the screen, look on the left pane for a Components folder.  Click on the plus ("+") sign next to it to expand the menu, where you will find the Fonts folder.  Click on it to access the Font list.

Step 3: After you click on the Fonts folder, all the Fonts will be listed on the right pane. They may be displayed as individual icons, as thumbnails, or simply as list items. From the Views icon on the toolbar, change the View mode to Small Design Picture if you want to look at a preview of your Fonts.

Step 4: When your Fonts are listed on the screen, look at the number on the bottom left corner of the window.  This is the actual number of Fonts in your Sierra Library.

Step 5: From the Edit menu at the top of the screen, choose Select All.  When all the Fonts are selected, right-click on any of them and choose Print.

Step 6: The Print Preview window will appear.  Use the Printer Setup icon on the toolbar if you need to further adjust your printer settings and/or preferences (page, margins, etc).  When ready, just click on the Print icon to print your Fonts.

L0032. EPI and BMP files in Edit? (v6.xx)

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0200

This article is for Edit v6.xx only.

Say that you are the type that once in a while likes digging through the folders on the hard drive, looking for temp files, old projects and junk files in general, so you can delete them and keep your computer optimized.

So, in the process of doing that you notice that along with your DST designs, you see other files with the same name, but different extensions - BMP and EPI.  And now you have a question - should I delete these "extra" files, or do I need to keep them?

What is an EPI file?

When you first load a DST design in your Edit software, the design will come up on the screen with the default Windows palette, which is usually a black background, and red for the 1st color, lime green for the 2nd color, blue for the 3rd color, yellow for the 4th color, etc.

You may want to change the colors of those needles to closely match the actual sewout.  If you do, when you resave this color-edited file, the software will reflect those changes on an EPI file, which actually stands for Embroidery Palette Information, hence the intials EPI.

The next time you load that DST design, the software will read the color information from the EPI file, and so it will load the design with whatever colors you had chosen for it the last time you had saved it.

What happens if I delete the EPI file?

Nothing serious.  But the next time you load that same DST file and there is no custom EPI file to go with it, then the software will behave as if it was the first time it ever loaded that design.  This means the design will come up on the screen with the default Windows palette, which is red, lime green, blue, etc, along with the black background.

Of course, you can always edit those colors again, and resave the file, which will then be reflected on the EPI file again.

Remember... a stitch file is a group of stitches separated by machine commands, whether they are trims or color changes. An EPI file simply lets the software know that you wanted to have those needles on the screen displayed with specific colors you selected instead of the default Windows palette.

What about the BMP file?

The BMP file is another "extra" the software creates whenever you save a DST file.  This one is a thumbnail preview of your design to be used for database purposes (searches, indexing, etc).

What happens if I delete the BMP file?

Much like deleting the EPI file, no big harm is done by deleting the BMP associated to a DST file.  In fact, if you don't use the database functions then there's little use for that BMP file, other than taking up space in your hard drive (albeit not much space since the thumbnail is a low resolution picture anyway).

Note: this BMP file is not the thumbnail you see in the browsing window when you are trying to open or save designs. Those are created and updated on the spot by the software, so deleting the BMP file as explained above has no effect whatsoever on the actual DST files.

L0031. Alphabets vs Embroidery Fonts vs True Types

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 12:00:00 +0200

Fonts and Alphabets sometimes seem to get mistaken for each other. There are however a few important differences between them worth noting:

What is an Alphabet?

An Alphabet is an entire set of characters, sometimes including not only letters but also numbers and special characters.  An Alphabet is always available as a stitch file, usually DST, but sometimes in other expanded formats as well.

Stock Design companies usually have Aphabets available for sale, which can be purchased and utilized on most embroidery software that can read stitch files (Sierra software or otherwise).

How do I use Alphabets?

If you want to put together the word FROG using an Alphabet, you would have to load the 4 individual characters and merge them together - "F", "R", "O" and "G".  You would also have to align the letters yourself, adjust spacing, etc.  In other words, you wouldn't be typing in the word from your keyboard, but rather manually creating the word by means of merging individual characters.

Can I control Alphabet settings?

Regarding how much control you have over embroidery settings, Alphabets are usually available in a few predetermined sizes only... which means you may have to do additional editing if you plan on changing their default size.

Also, Alphabet characters are "as is", which means you are limited to whatever parameters that Alphabet had, be it density, underlay, pull compensation, short stitches, etc.

Remember, you are dealing with a stitch file, so the software doesn't know these are letters - it only sees groups of stitches.

What is a Font, and how is it different than an Alphabet?

Fonts are what almost every embroidery software offers as part of its built-in Lettering module.

While a Font is the same set of characters as explained above, the difference is that those characters are stored in a wireframe format (aka "condensed" or "outline" format).  The software understands and can work with this type of file much better.

How do I use Fonts?

Using the same analogy as above, if you want to type in the word FROG using one of your software Fonts, all you do is type in the actual word using the Lettering portion of your software. In other words, no more having to manually merge individual characters to put words together.

Can I control Font settings?

Yes.  Unlike Alphabets, with Fonts you do have much more control over embroidery parameters, such as Density, Underlay, Pull Compensation, Short Stitches and so on.

Alphabets vs Fonts: PROs and CONs

Alphabets don't offer much control, and usually come in a few sizes only.  But because anybody with digitizing software can create individual characters and sell them as such, Alphabet sets are plenty available in the market, usually at attractive prices.

Fonts on the other hand offer much more control, making them the better choice if you are going to use a particular style of text often in your embroidery.  But Fonts can only be created by the same software that reads them, which makes their selection much more limited than Alphabets.

So, those are some of the differences between an Alphabet (a stitch file containing an entire group of individual characters) and a Font (a Lettering system of its own within an embroidery program that allows you to type actual words).

What are True Types, and how are they different?

Just when you thought you knew everything there was to know about types of lettering, here comes a whole another subject - True Types!

Much closer to Fonts than Alphabets, True Types are Windows Fonts which certain type of embroidery software can convert into stitches.  Once this conversion takes place you are basically working with a Font, with basically the same control over parameters, nodes, etc, as explained above.

The main difference between a True Type Font and one of the regular Embroidery Fonts available in your software is that those Fonts have been actually digitized by embroiderers, and tested on an embroidery machine.

True Types, on the other hand, have been created mainly as a source of copy text for Windows applications. As a result, conversion to stitches is rarely flawless.  True Type conversions almost always require additional editing.

That being said, there is eventually no project you cannot undertake with the almost endless selection of True Types available in the after market.

L0030. Fabric Reference Chart

Wed, 19 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0200

Use the attached chart as a guideline for settings to apply to in your EO software, depending on the different fabrics and/or garments you will be sewing on.

NOTE: this article has been designed for landscape printing.

TIP: if your software level does not provide some of the underlay options described on the chart, you may be able to manually create it using some of the tools available in your Sierra software.  Look for more details on Underlay in the Tutorials & Articles section of the Learning section for more info.

L0029. Deleting blocks in Edit I v7

Tue, 18 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0200

This article is for Edit I only, v7 or earlier.

If you're trying to delete groups of stitches of an existing design and have Edit I software (v7 or earlier), you may be wondering if you can perform this task without the Block Selection tools available in Edit II and higher levels.

The answer is yes... almost.  It does take more clicks than it would in Edit II, where you would simply select blocks and delete them.  But you can still do this task in Edit I fairly easily. Here's how:

1. The Stitch List will come in handy for this task, so you know at all times where you're located in your design.  To enable the Stitch List, either push its button (towards the end of the 2nd toolbar) *or* hit L on your keyboard.

2. Now click on the Stitch Selector, which is the first icon on the 2nd toolbar, *or* hit S on the keyboard.

3. When you do this, you will enter stitch editing mode.  Look at your Stitch List and you will see a stitch selected.  You will also see a blinking cursor on the screen where that stitch is.

4. Now that you've entered stitch editing mode, click on a stitch of the block you want to delete, preferably the first stitch or one of the first few stitches of that block.  Again notice how both the Stitch List and the blinking cursor on the screen confirm you've selected a stitch.

5. Now that you have a stitch selected, simply use your left arrow key from the keyboard to navigate backwards through the design, until you reach the first stitch of that block.

6. It's normal to go past the intended stitch, onto the previous block.  If you do, the right arrow key will take you forward through the stitches.
In fact, you may find yourself using both right and left arrow keys until you know for sure you are standing on the first stitch of the block you want to delete (i.e. not on the last stitch of the previous block).
TIP: always look at the Stitch List and the blinking cursor on the screen for visual confirmation

7. Once you are standing on the first stitch of the block, simply hit the Delete key on your keyboard and you will see how you've just deleted one stitch. Now just hold down the Delete key and you will witness some power stitch erasing.  Alas, use caution as you approach the last stitch of the block, or you may find yourself deleting stitches from the next group of stitches! (if you do, Ctrl+Z will undo as needed).

L0028. Center Out Lettering on EO7

Fri, 28 Apr 2006 12:00:00 +0200

Article originally written for v7 levels that did not include branching.

Try this quick tip if you need to sew text "center out", i.e. sewing on caps.

Taking advantage of Sierra software's ability to connect Fonts at their closest point, simply type the letters the order in which you want the machine to sew them out.

Say that you have to sew the word SIERRA on a cap, and you want to sew "center out".  In this case, that means the sewing sequence should be E-I-S-R-R-A.

This way, the design starts sewing at the E, and it sews backwards, towards the S.  And then it goes back to the center to sew from the first R on.  This is how you alleviate the sewing tension on the center seam of the cap, pulling to the sides instead as you sew "center out".

SOFTWARE SETUP:

Step 1: To set up the above text, simply type the letters in the mentioned sequence, E-I-S-R-R-A.

Step 2: when the text comes up on the screen, use the kerning nodes at the bottom of each letter to reposition the letters accordingly.

That's it! When you have the word properly aligned, continue with the usual adjustments if needed (density, pull compensation, etc).  Use the Navigation Bar to confirm your text will sew in the "center out" sequence intended.

L0027. Sentinel Driver (v7 or earlier)

Sun, 13 Nov 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Version 8 users need NOT read this article, for v8 runs on a different USB key.

If you are trying to install an earlier version of Sierra software that won't recognize your security device, go to SafeNet's site then choose the Sentinel SuperPro link.  You will be able to download the proper driver for your security device from there.

Once the driver has been installed, reboot and try installing your Sierra software again.

Note: if you have a Toshiba laptop that continues to not recognize the Sentinel device after the above steps, run the SetupSysDriver.exe file from the C:\Program Files\Rainbow Technologies\Sentinel System Driver folder, then select Configure Driver and create a line with Address 378 and Port Type IBM AT.

L0026. EO Clean for v7

Sat, 22 Oct 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Tool that performs the complete removal of Embroidery Office software from your computer (ideal if you are trying to reinstall from scratch).

Important: this tool is for Embroidery Office v7.xx installations only!

INSTRUCTIONS

There is a ZIP file attached to this article.  Unzip it, and copy the contents of it (two "EoClean" files) to a folder in your hard drive.  Note: you MUST copy the EoClean files to your hard drive.
Locate the EoClean.EXE file you just saved to your hard drive, and double-click on it to execute it. If "Unknown Publisher" warning appears, ignore it.
Press "Clean".
After cleaning process is complete, go to Windows Control Panel --> Add / Remove Programs.
Remove any "Sentinel" items from the list.  After removing Sentinel items from the list, properly turn off the computer and then disconnect the Sierra security device from the back of the computer.
Turn the computer back on.  Reinstall EO.

Warning: this Utility will modify your Windows Registry entries and delete shared Borland files (this should be of no concern unless you have Borland-based applications running on your system).

L0025. Installing v7.50 on Windows 2000

Tue, 27 Sep 2005 12:00:00 +0200

If you are going to install v7.50 on a computer running Windows 2000, be aware that you MUST have Service Pack 4 for Windows 2000 installed first.

Again, this is for Windows 2000 only. No need to worry if you are on an OS other than Windows 2000, or if you already have SP4 installed on your Windows 2000 OS.

L0024. New on v7.50

Thu, 8 Sep 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Note: v7.50 will be available as a free download for a limited time only after the release of v8.

Version 7.50 is the latest Embroidery Office release as of September 2005.  It is a FREE download for registered users of any EO v7.xx release, and it uses the same password as previous v7.xx releases.

The attached PDF file contains the list of fixes and improvements, as well as more information on installing this latest release.

L0023. New on v7.41

Thu, 8 Sep 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Version 7.41 is a minor release to be deployed over v7.40.  Do NOT go from v7.30 or any other version directly to v7.41. Always update to v7.40 first; then, you can go to v7.41.

L0022. New on v7.40

Thu, 8 Sep 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Version 7.40 is not considered a "critical" update, however it is a FREE download if you already have v7.30.  It uses the same Installation Password than v7.30 as well.

If you are on v6.xx or earlier, by purchasing a v7 upgrade you would automatically receive v7.40.

If you are using v7.30 and have experienced any of the issues listed below, be aware that v7.40 addresses these issues. Again, it's a free download for v7.30 users.

V7.40 highlights

- V7.30 presented a challenge  when exporting Tajima files directly to floppy. It would retain the filename itself, but not the internal name.
NOTE: The internal name of a DST file is what the embroidery machine displays on the control panel after a design is read into memory.
This issue has been addressed in v7.40. The DST file now retains the name you typed in as both the filename and the internal name.

- NEW.... "Center at Origin" option available in the Align menu!  You can now center anything you want to 0,0, including the entire design at once. Block anything you want to center --> right-click --> Align --> Center at Origin.

- Certain Monogram Styles, particularly those that have letters inside borders or floral arrangements, did not always have the individual letters properly centered in v7.30. These Styles have been addressed in v7.40.

- Toolbars can now be turned back on.

- V7.40 now remembers the size of the on-screen thread chart.

- Online Help is now available.

- V7.30 presented a challenge when using 2-color Fonts. This has been addressed in v7.40, so that when you use 2-color text, the color bar automatically adds that 2nd needle.

- "Comment" tab added to InfoCard.

- V7.30 (and earlier versions too) could not change the color of a selected Block if a Manual Stitch was part of that Block. This was corrected in v7.40.

- "Show Crosshairs" now available from menu at bottom right corner of screen.

L0021. New on v7.30

Wed, 7 Sep 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Note: v7.30 is the first release for the v7.xx series

Version 7 incorporates many new functions, has improved many others, and has added new optional modules to enhance your embroidery business. Tree View, Satellite View, Hoops, Monogramming, Reference Lines, AID2 are just a few of the new things you will find in v7. The attached PDF document is a Reference Chart to the new features in v7.

L0019. New on v6.50

Mon, 29 Aug 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Note: subsequent releases immediately following the original v6.50 included v6.60, v6.70, v6.71, v6.72 and v6.75; the attached PDF is valid for any of these versions.

Minor improvements, some corrections, and a new 3D Simulator are all part of the v6.50 release.  Read attached PDF for more info.

L0018. New on v6.11

Wed, 17 Aug 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Read the attached PDF for improvements and new features on v6.11.

L0017. New on v6.02

Wed, 17 Aug 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Note: v6.02 is the first release for the v6.xx series

Version 6 incorporates many new functions, has improved many others, and has added new optional modules to enhance your embroidery business. Automatic Digitizing, Expanded to Condensed, Branching, Shoot & Stitch, Flexible Fills and and True Type Fonts are just a few of the new things you will find on v6. The attached PDF document is a complete guide to the the new features on v6.

L0015. I only have 30 Fonts? (v7.xx or earlier)

Thu, 28 Jul 2005 12:00:00 +0200

This article is NOT for v8 users... only for users of v7.50 or earlier

When you go to the Lettering screen and hit "Browse" to access your Fonts, look at the bottom left corner of the Font Library window to quickly determine how many Sierra Fonts you have there.

You may only have 30 Fonts listed there, or you may have more.  If you've never installed Fonts separately before, chances are you only have 30 Fonts.

Are there more Fonts available?

Yes. Look on your Sierra CD label or CD booklet for instructions on installing the remaining Fonts.  This should dramatically increase the number of Fonts for use in your Sierra software.

Can't find the booklet or can't find the instructions?  Click on Start - Run and browse your Sierra CD for a FONTS.EXE file, likely under a "Files" or "Fonts" folder.

Or, Fonts are also available at MyHome, the Customer Area for Sierra users of v7.xx and earlier.

TIP: Browse the Free Stuff section for other Font Downloads, including latest revisions of "official" Fonts, plus a few "non-official" Fonts too!

L0014. What is a DST.EOX file?

Tue, 19 Jul 2005 12:00:00 +0200

When you save a DST file, you will notice that EO v7 now saves in the specified location not only the requested DST file, but also a DST.EOX file.

So, if you save a design on the screen in Tajima format and call it "FROG", you can then access the folder where you saved such design (through My Computer or Windows Explorer), and you will see the files "FROG.DST" and "FROG.DST.EOX".

What's the EOX file for?

This file is new to v7, and it basically saves information pertaining to the DST file that previous versions did not save, including color information.

On earlier versions, DST files could only be viewed with the default Windows Palette colors.  This meant you would get red for needle #1, lime green for needle #2, blue for needle #3, etc.  The background would be black for all designs.

V7 now allows you to edit that color information and save it, even if you are working with a DST file.

After editing the color information as you wish, just save the DST file as you normally would.  Next time you load that color-edited DST file, you will notice that it will have retained all those colors you edited.

The DST.EOX file is responsible for this color retaining to take place.

Do I need this EOX file?  Can I delete it?

While no harm is done in deleting this DST.EOX file from your computer, the DST file associated to that EOX file will no longer retain the color information.

Say that you open a 3-color DST file for the first time.  EO will show the usual black background, and it will default the 3 colors of that design to red, lime green & blue.  Say that you then edit the colors of that design to match the actual colors it will sew with, and then resave the design in DST format.

Because you are using EO v7, this process now creates a DST.EOX file on your computer, besides the actual DST file.  But say that you forget about the EOX file's capability of retaining the color information and delete it instead.  What happens then?

Nothing serious, or not too serious at least, because your design and stitch information will still be there the next time you load that design on the screen.  But, because there is no EOX file associated to that design, EO will revert to the default Windows Palette colors to display the design (red, lime green, blue, with a black background).

So, if you want to be able to edit, and then retain the color information of DST designs, EO v7 does have the ability to do just that - with the EOX file.

Note: the "color information" described above (or lack of it, for that matter) is for screen reference only; it has no effect whatsoever on the actual color layout of a finished, ready-to-sew DST design; which can only be decided at the time of sewing, by entering the appropriate colors on the control panel of your embroidey machine.

L0013. Preparing multiple names for sewing on EO7

Sat, 9 Jul 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Article originally written for v7... screenshots are different on v8, but concept is the same!

Let's say your customer orders a bunch of shirts from you for his / her team, and each shirt has a different name embroidered on it.  All the names are to be sewn on the same location throughout the shirts, whether it's left chest, above pocket, etc.

If you have... 1) a reliable hooping device or method to consistently hoop the garment on the same spot, and... 2) if your embroidery machine has the ability to recognize a "stop" (that is, to stop sewing without you having to actually hit the "stop" button, and allowing you to move the frame or exchange hoops while it's idle), then... 3) try this tip to generate a single embroidery file using your Sierra Design or Edit software.
This single file will contain all the names, which in turn makes for a less tedious, faster setup process at the embroidery machine.

SOFTWARE SETUP

Step 1: Using either EDIT or DESIGN, access your Lettering box the usual way - the Lab icon.  Once there, enter the first name as if it was the only name you would do.  But do not hit OK out of the Lettering window just yet.
Choose your Font, set your Font Height, Letter Spacing, Kerning, etc, the way you normally would. Again, don't hit OK out of the Lettering window yet.

Step 2: Next, choose the next color from the Color pull-down menu located next to the Text box (see below).

Note: if you are doing this in Design, and you don't see other colors in the Color Menu referenced above, use the Color Palette menu at the bottom left corner of your design window to ADD NEEDLE before entering the Lettering window. Ideally, add as many colors as names you will sew.

Step 3: after you selected the next color in the Color Menu shown above, click on the Text box again (at the end of whichever name you already typed in), and hit ENTER to add another line. Enter your next name, which will already appear in the next color selected.

Step 4: Now, simply repeat steps 2-3 described above for additional names.  After you typed in all the names, your Lettering screen will look like the screen below (we are using 4 names for our example).

Step 5: Finally, to make sure all the names are centered over each other on the same line, make sure your justiffication is set to Center, and that your Line Spacing is set to zero (0).  See picture below.

Now you can hit OK out of the window, and complete the lettering process the usual way, setting Densities if needed, Pull Compensation, etc.  Then, CONFIRM AND APPEND if you are in Edit, or TURN TEXT INTO SECTIONS if you are in Design.  Then, simply center the design and export to a DST file.

Be aware that the text that comes up on the screen as the result of performing the steps above, will not look pretty.  But, this is the way to make all names sew in the same spot on the hooped garments, each name with a different color. This is the reason why... a) we first entered each name in a different color, ... b) then set the Line Spacing to zero (0), and... c) finally center-justified everything.

MACHINE SETUP

Note: First of all, make sure you know how to make your machine stop between color changes within the same design.  On certain machines (SWF) this is achieved by entering the same needle number twice in a row.  On other machines (Toyota), this is achieved by hitting the STOP button right after the needle number at the time of entering the color sequence.  Other machines will simply let you run the color sequence in manual mode, which means the machine stops by default at color changes, waiting until you either enter another color or simply resume sewing.  Check with your embroidery machine vendor for the method you should use on your machine.

Step 1: Load the design into your machine.  Trace the design, keeping in mind that the machine will be tracing the maximum limits of the entire design, which will basically be the longest name of the batch. Position the embroidery on the hoop accordingly and start sewing.

Step 2: When the first name is done, the machine will stop before sewing the next color (read note above for more information on this procedure).  This is where you take that first garment out, put the second one in, and resume sewing.  Repeat with other garments.

Because you will have already centered the entire design, and because all the names will be contained in a single design file on the embroidery machine, you can simply continue to swap hooped garments and resume sewing after each name is done.

L0012. Error #5 (v7 or earlier)

Mon, 23 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Article written for v7 or earlier; on v8, the multiple activation process prevents error #5.

You get an error #5 whenever the security device detects a different configuration than the last time the software was launched. Most times this occurs whenever you switch the security device from one computer to another.

Reinstalling the software is a sure fix.  A more convenient fix, however, is listed below; and you will only need to do this once (per computer where the error #5 occurs), rather than reinstalling every time (if you were to choose the reinstall route).

FIX: Rebuild configuration through EO Setup.

SOLUTION: go to Start - Programs - Embroidery Office - EO Setup, click on Rebuild File and follow on-screen instructions. You will need your latest Installation Password.

REMEMBER: The Installation Password is NOT the access code to MyHome nor the RET code you received when you registered your product. Consult with your software vendor if you don't remember or can't find your latest Installation Password.

NOTE: Attached is a PDF file with more detailed instructions, including screen shots.

L0010. Lost toolbars on v7.30

Mon, 23 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

If you turned all your Toolbars off in v7.30, and now can't find a way to turn them back on, you can reinstall the software to restore them, or...

FIX: v7.40 addressed this issue.

SOLUTION: Log in to MyHome and download v7.40. To install v7.40 use the same Installation Password you used when you installed v7.30.

L0011. DST design is missing name on v7.30

Mon, 23 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

When you load an embroidery design into your machine, there are two places where you should see the name of that design on the control panel of your embroidery machine.

The first time is when you are at the embroidery machine, browsing the contents of the floppy disk, so you know which design to load.
The second time you encounter the design name is after loading it into the machine memory. This is what allows you to select, from your machine memory, the design you need to sew.

However, if you are exporting a DST design to a floppy using v7.30, you may notice that after you load that design into the machine memory, the name either disappears or defaults to a "bogus" name.

FIX: v7.40 addressed this issue.

SOLUTION: Log in to MyHome and download v7.40. To install v7.40 use the same Installation Password you used when you installed v7.30.

NOTE: the above issue only happens in v7.30, and only when you export a DST file directly to floppy from within the program. It does not occur if you export the DST file to your hard drive first, and from there transfer the DST file to the floppy disk.

L0009. Using a USB Floppy Drive on v6.xx

Fri, 20 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

If you are trying to use v6.xx of Sierra software with a USB Floppy Drive and get the "blue screen", you are experiencing an incompatibility between the USB Floppy Drive and the driver for the security device.

FIX: patch attached (ZIP file for v6.xx users; v7 users DO NOT need this patch).

SOLUTION: download the attached ZIP file (v6.xx users only) to reveal a TXT file and an EXE file; read the TXT file for instructions on installing the patch.

REMEMBER: v7.xx users DO NOT need to install the attached patch, as v7 addresses the USB Floppy Drive issue at the time of install.  And v8 users DO NOT need to install the attached patch either, because v8 runs on a separate security device altogether.

NOTE: USB Floppy Drives are not compatible with non-DOS formats, therefore you can not read or write such non-DOS formats (Barudan, ZSK) if using a USB Floppy Drive. Also, it is recommended that you format your floppy disks from Windows Explorer whenever using a USB Floppy Drive (instead of through Embroidery Explorer or from within EO).

L0008. How do I reset my sewing tensions?

Thu, 19 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

Most if not all times, an embroidery machine will come "out of the box" with the tensions preset to standards that shouldn't cause trouble at the time of sewing.

However, there are times where you will need to change those tensions, or simply adjust them for certain specific jobs.  As you change sewing tensions, you may often find yourself wanting to set those tensions back to that "out of the box" starting point.

The H Test

A test commonly used for setting tensions is the "H" test.  Basically, this test consists of sewing an upper case letter H, the block type preferably.  The 3 columns of such letter provide a straightforward and consistent sewing pattern for checking tensions.

What you want to do is sew the letter H and then take a look at the back side of the fabric. The ideal tension should yield a result where the columns are divided in 3 parts.  The two outer thirds of the column should be top thread, while the center third of the column should be bobbin thread.

If you see more bobbin thread than the center third, either your top tension is too tight or your bobbin tension too loose, either case resulting in bobbin thread being pulled up more than it should.
Likewise, if you see more top thread than just the two outer thirds, then your top tension is too loose, or your bobbin tension too tight, either case resulting in more top thread traveling to the bottom than it should.

The FOX Test

Another test comparable to the H test is the word FOX. This one also provides a simple sewing pattern, but in all directions. The F tests the horizontal and vertical sewing, while the O tests all possible movements by sewing all the way around a letter. The X offers the same horizontal test as the H, but with the pantograph moving diagonally rather than the always-straight edges of the H.

TEST DESIGNS available in the "Free Stuff" section, under "Other Stuff"

NOTE: a tension gauge may also be helpful in the tension adjustment process.  Check with your embroidery supplies vendor for more information.

L0006. Should I use Underlay for my text, and how much?

Wed, 18 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

What is Underlay and should my text have it?

Underlay provides good foundation for the top stitches. It also stabilizes the garment by sewing it to the backing, thus reducing the movement of the fabric in the hoop, which could otherwise distort your final result. So, as a general rule: yes, you should use Underlay for your lettering.

How much? What kind?

The amount and type of Underlay you should use depends on the fabric you are sewing on, as well as on the size of your letters.

For instance, a Center Walk Underlay works well for many applications, including non-stretchy fabrics, caps, and wovens in general.
If the column width of the text is narrow (1 mm or slightly wider), this may be the only type of underlay you will be able to use, regardless of the fabric you are sewing on.

On a stretchy fabric like knit, Edge Walk Underlay helps the stitches hold better along the edges, where they have the tendency to create a "serrated" look, sometimes referred to as "saw-teeth edges".
If the column width of the text is fairly wide (1.5 mm and over), this type of underlay is recommended regardless of fabric.

On fleece and towels, a ZigZag Underlay will prevent the top stitches from sinking into the fabric.  If needed, a Double ZigZag Underlay will double up that protection.  Otherwise, either type of underlay offers a sure way to raise your columns.

Fonts that are sewn in Fill Stitches will benefit from Parallel Underlay. Experiment with angles for different results, although you will notice that a 90º angle usually provides the best coverage throughout.

The "combo" Underlay types offer the added benefit of combining the advantages of each separate underlay type, all in one step. 
For instance, the Edge Walk + ZigZag Underlay will offer the benefit of the Edge Walk Underlay (better hold stitches along the edges) plus the benefit of the ZigZag Underlay (raise the columns and prevent stitches from sinking into fabrics like fleece and such).

NOTE: more detailed info on the different types of Underlay in the Learning section.

L0007. My letters are getting lost in the fabric!

Wed, 18 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

If your text is disappearing or "sinking" into the fabric, most likely your columns are not wide enough to fully develop a nice, flat stitch.

If left unattended, this could actually lead to a "bird nest"*, which is when your top thread suddenly accumulates in the bobbin case area, producing thread breaks, and sometimes even needle breaks, which in turn can throw your machine timing off.

Why does this happen?

Thread has some thickness to it, and so does a needle. If the needle penetrations on both sides of a Satin Stitch column are not far enough from each other, most of the thread in that column will simply be pulled to the underside of the garment, due to lack of space on the top side for the thread to travel between needle penetrations and develop a flat stitch.

This is why your Satin Stitch columns need to be of a minimum width, so the machine has room to sew stitches that will lay flat on the top side of the garment - not the bottom.

How wide does a column need to be?

As long as you keep your Satin Stitch columns to a minimum width of 1 mm, you should not have to sing the "thread sinking" blues. Keep in mind however, that this is not necessarily the ideal column width for Satin Stitches, but rather the recommended minimum to keep your stitches from sinking into the fabric.

* If you are experiencing bird nests that are not being caused by narrow columns, a number of things could be at play, including problems with the actual thread, improper sewing tensions, or even issues with the bobbin case.  Check the Sewing section of this Library for more info.

L0005. What Density should I use for Lettering?

Wed, 18 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

What Density you should use for Lettering depends on a number of factors, such as the fabric you are sewing on, the type of backing you are using, and the type of thread you are sewing with. Last but not least, the look you are trying to achieve also has a say on what Density you should use.

Yet another scenario to consider, although on a smaller scale than what's been described above, would be the actual color combination you are using.
For instance, dark fabric tends to "show through" white or light-colored thread much more than if you were using medium or dark thread.  Likewise, white or light-colored fabric may "show through" when sewing with black or dark thread.
Setting your Density slightly higher than normal would help in this type of situation.

And on an even smaller scale yet, the actual weight of the garment, or whether you are running your tension loose or tight, may also eventually determine what Density you should use.

That being said, below are certain paramenters that you can consider basic guidelines. From time to time you may find necessary to adjust these settings for specific scenarios, but they should provide you with a good overall starting point for your Density dilemmas.

Bear in mind that Density may or may not be the solution to any particular challenge you could be experiencing.  Pull Compensation and / or Underlay may be instead the answer to certain issues.

DENSITY GUIDELINES:

Satin Stitches: a Density of 5.2 to 5.5 lines/mm should provide nice coverage in most situations. You may need to go lower, say to 5 or even 4.8, for very small text (such as 5 mm letters), or to 6 or even higher for large letters, particularly when the satin stitch columns on those letters get to be pretty wide, such as 6 mm or so.
Fill Stitches: a Density of around 5 lines/mm should provide nice, thorough coverage.  Keep in mind that needle penetrations tend to be more noticeable on "fancy" pattern fills than on regular ones. So if you are using one of the so called "fancy" patterns, you may need to bump up the density a couple of tenths to compensate. Regardless of the pattern type, using a longer Stitch Length also helps hide the needle penetrations.

NOTE: Again... remember that Density may not always be the solution to a specific challenge. If you use too much Density, you will start paying a high cost for it, in the form of thread breaks at the machine.  Additional Underlay may be what's needed to obtain more consistent coverage; or, Pull Compensation if you are looking for wider, bolder columns.

L0003. System Requirements for EO v7

Mon, 16 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

These system requirements are for reference purposes only. Please consult your software vendor for the latest information on hardware requirements before purchasing a new desktop or laptop computer.

NOTE: These requirements are for EO Design, which is a resource-thirsty application that can drain your system resources if you don't have enough "power" to handle its tasks.  EO Edit and other less graphic-intense EO programs may not have the same requirements.

Minimum Required	Recommended
Intel Pentium III	Intel Pentium IV *
512 MB RAM memory
64 MB Video Card	128 MB Video Card
2.0 GB Hard Drive	More GB for design storage
1.44 MB Floppy Drive	USB Floppy Drive
24x CD-ROM Drive
1 Parallel / USB Port (for security device) **	1 Parallel / USB Port (for security device) **
SVGA Monitor	17" Hi-Color or True-Color Monitor
Windows-compatible Keyboard & Mouse
Windows 2000 / XP ***
	1 Serial Port (for Machine Transfer)
	1200 DPI Twain Scanner
	720 DPI Inkjet Printer
	CD-RW Drive
	56k Modem or DSL / Cable ****
	Internet access ****

* Celeron / AMD not recommended
** Ask your vendor about the Security Device you will receive
*** Microsoft retired mainstream support for Windows 98 on 6-30-02
**** Software downloads are available but usually too large for dial-up

L0002. What is OpenGL?

Mon, 16 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

OpenGL is the "engine" (technically, Application Programming Interface or API) that makes the use of high-quality graphics possible.

EO Design takes advantage of the OpenGL interface to render its graphics, thus EO Design greatly benefits from a separate video card in your computer, with enough video memory to handle all graphic processing.

More info about OpenGL here.

L0004. ASK code v7

Mon, 16 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

In order to validate and register your EO v7 product, the software will prompt you to enter the ASK code. This code is unique to your current installation and configuration.

On version 7 systems, you can find the ASK code on the Help >> About menu of your software. Here is a picture of where to find the ASK code *IF* you have v7.

L0001. Uninstalling EO v6.xx

Tue, 10 May 2005 12:00:00 +0200

This article is for v6.xx users only.

If you need to do a clean reinstall of EO v6.xx, follow these steps:

1. Add / Remove Programs

Uninstall all Sierra products through the Add / Remove Programs option from the Windows Control Panel.  Reboot the computer as needed, even if it means uninstalling one Sierra product at a time, restarting the computer, uninstalling another Sierra product, rebooting again, and so on.  This first step of the must finish with a reboot command, before going to step 2, regardless of how many times the computer has been restarted throughout this first step.

2. Delete Folders

After the last reboot from step 1, manually delete these folders:
- C:\Sierra
- C:\Program Files\Sierra
- C:\Program Files\Common Files\Sierra
- C:\Program Files\Common Files\Borland Shared

3. Delete additional Files

Run a search for the following files or folders, and delete. If a search does not find the listed item, move on to the next one.
- *.scg
- Bdnet32.ini
- *70n.dll
- Sentinel
- RNBDSent (folder)
- ???501?.dll
- Borlndmm.dll
- cw3220*.dll
- bocof.dll
- bocole.dll
- bw*.dll
- Delphimm.dll
- vcl*.?pl
- *zip32.dll
- Format16.dll
- Format32.dll
- pic.blg

4. Delete Icons

Delete all icons still remaining on the Start menu (or Start-Programs or Start-Programs-Embroidery Office or anywhere else on the Desktop or Start menu).

5. Windows Registry

From the Start – Run menu, type regedit and click OK.  Navigate to the folders and entries listed below, and delete them.

Note: if the searched terms are on the left pane, they are either keys or folders, and the Delete key will delete the entire folder; but if the searched terms are on the right pane, they are either entries or values, which the Delete key will either erase or set to a zero value. Don't be alarmed, as this is the intended result.

- HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\EE* (click on each folder on the left pane, to make sure the entries listed within it are related to Embroidery Explorer)
- HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\EO*
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Sierra*
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Borland*
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths\EExplorer.exe
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths\EO*
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\SharedDLLs\... (any values on the right pane that have to do with borland*)
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\SharedDLLs\... (any values on the right pane that have to do with sierra*)
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\SharedDLLs\{C:\WINDOWS...}
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\SharedDLLs\{C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM...}
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\SharedDLLs\{C:\WINNT...}
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\SharedDLLs\{C:\WINNT\SYSTEM...}
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\SharedDLLs\{C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\...}
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\Embro*

For a final Windows Registry clean-up, click on "My Computer" at the top of the Registry Editor, and use the Edit-Find menu to locate all the entries listed below, carefully deleting only those that are related to Sierra products (watch the "DATA" column on the right pane for a description):
- Eo (carefully avoid deleting ind"eo" and vid"eo" entries)
- Embroidery
- Sierra
- Borland

Short of reformatting the hard drive, following the above steps will kill any trace of Sierra software on your computer, after which you can remove the security device, reboot and reinstall.

How can I use Short Stitches in very close turns?

Fri, 1 Apr 2005 12:00:00 +0200

In Vector or Simple Area sections filled with Zig-zag, in which the shape has very closed turns, it´s normally necessary to use Short Stitches.

The short stitch scheme in Eo Design allows you to define, not only the number of short stitch levels to be generated, but the percentage of each one as well. Adjusting these values in an adequate way, will let you achieve the best result when generating and embroidering your design.

To enable the use of Short Stitches, edit the section and open the Object Inspector. In the Fill tab, step on Short Stitches and change setting to Yes. Once enabled, you´ll be able to change the number of levels, and the percentage asigned to them.

The example shows some vectors with very close turns. The width and the density has been changed, and the parameters have been adjusted to get an acceptable result. Use these values as reference to make the correct short stitch adjustment on your designs.