Do we need another tool for converting registry files to provisioning XML files? Maybe not, but I wasn't happy with existing solutions, so here's my offering. It runs on Windows (not on Windows Mobile), and will convert any registry data file given to it into a file of the same name, but with a .xml extension.
This is eventually going to be a small part of a larger project I'm working on, but I thought I'd release it now to get any early feedback.
Features:
Command line interface (or just drag and drop the registry file onto the .exe)
Converts Unicode and ANSI file formats: .reg (v4 and v5), .rgu, .cereg
Supports continuing line breaks (lines split with \)
Supports all data types (including REG_BINARY containing non-unicode data)
Supports key and value deletion instructions
Robust to non-fatal failure: informative warnings and errors will be displayed (if run from the command line).
Accessible as an API (to .net apps) - add a reference to the .exe file, then call the static method RegToXml.RegToXml.Convert
The intention is for this to provide bullet-proof conversion of any valid registry files, so I'd really appreciate any bug reports (preferably with a copy of the registry file that failed!). Comments and suggestions welcome too.
Alex
Edit: This tool is now available as part of SDConfigGen, and will no longer be separately updated in this thread.
AlexVallat said:
Do we need another tool for converting registry files to provisioning XML files? Maybe not, but I wasn't happy with existing solutions, so here's my offering.
This is eventually going to be a small part of a larger project I'm working on, but I thought I'd release it now to get any early feedback.
Features:
Command line interface (or just drag and drop the registry file onto the .exe)
Converts Unicode and ANSI file formats: .reg (v4 and v5), .rgu, .cereg
Supports continuing line breaks (lines split with \)
Supports all data types (including REG_BINARY containing non-unicode data)
Robust to non-fatal failure: informative warnings and errors will be displayed (if run from the command line).
Accessible as an API (to .net apps) - add a reference to the .exe file, then call the static method RegToXml.RegToXml.Convert
The intention is for this to provide bullet-proof conversion of any valid registry files, so I'd really appreciate any bug reports (preferably with a copy of the registry file that failed!). Comments and suggestions welcome too.
Alex
.NET Framework (required)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi alex
I have error with Net CF
what version is required ? I have V2
brunoisa10 said:
Hi alex
I have error with Net CF
what version is required ? I have V2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It should be OK with 2.0. Just a thought, you mention .Net CF - are you trying to run this on Windows Mobile? I should have been more specific, this is a Windows (PC) tool for generating xml provisioning files which are then used by SDAutorun.
Alex
I use http://ceregeditor.mdsoft.pl/
Radimus said:
I use http://ceregeditor.mdsoft.pl/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So do I, it's a great application! I'm not sure I understand your point, though?
AlexVallat said:
So do I, it's a great application! I'm not sure I understand your point, though?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it will export the reg, it will convert to a cab... what else does it need to do?
Radimus said:
it will export the reg, it will convert to a cab... what else does it need to do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It doesn't export to cab, if I read correctly, it exports to *.XML
Exitao said:
It doesn't export to cab, if I read correctly, it exports to *.XML
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
CERegEditor can export registry data. Once you have registry data, you may choose to it to a cab using the CERegEditor Convert menu as illustrated above by Radimus. If what you want is a cab file, RegToXml probably isn't what you are looking for.
If you want to convert it to an xml provisioning file, though, I don't believe CERegEditor has that functionality. You can use my RegToXml tool to do that.
Alex
I'm not trying to be difficult, but if we are to assume the cab works as advertised, then the xml is already inside the cab...
winrar or winzip or whatever to extract the cab....
All that aside, it is obviously not the only solution to this process and any efforts by a local dev is nothing but outstanding.
I have just started looking into XML provisioning, I had only done CAB installs previously. If this app will grow into a utility that can manage fileoperations like creating folders, moving/creating shortcuts, and such this will be a very worthy endeavor.
OK, I guess you could use CERegEditor generate a cab file, extract _setup.xml from it, rename it, and edit it to remove the extraneous dummy file copying stuff. I'd suggest that using this tool instead would be easier than that. Of course if what you want to end up with is actually a cab, rather than an xml file, then there's less point to it!
The reason I (personally) want to generate xml files from registry files is for use with SDAutoRun, where they are included in the SDConfig.txt with the XML: statement.
Alex
even a "wizard" type of app, that would create XML provisioning files for email accounts would be a life saver and a standard app for all UC flashers.
New account -> select provider (pop3,ldap,gmail,exchange,etc) -> acctname -> pw -> options -> another acct -> create XML? -> create cab? -> donate 1$
I like the idea. I'm currently working on an SDConfig.txt auto-generator, but once I've finished that, a wizard-based provisioning file editor could be a cool project.
@AlexVallat,
your RegToXml converter does not handle reg-lines which contain "multi-sz", hence it is useless for me.
jwoegerbauer said:
@AlexVallat,
your RegToXml converter does not handle reg-lines which contain "multi-sz", hence it is useless for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's been three years... I don't actually even have a windows mobile device any more.
That said, RegToXml should support values of type REG_MULTI_SZ. Check that you are using the latest version (0.6) - if not, it's part of SDConfigGen now. You can just extract RegToXml.exe from the zip file if that's all you want, though.
AlexVallat said:
It's been three years... I don't actually even have a windows mobile device any more.
That said, RegToXml should support values of type REG_MULTI_SZ. Check that you are using the latest version (0.6) - if not, it's part of SDConfigGen now. You can just extract RegToXml.exe from the zip file if that's all you want, though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RegToXML is a Win32 app, hence no mobile device needed. To be on the safe side again downloaded SDConfigGen.0.6.zip and ran RegToXML.exe (06.08.2008, 12 KB) contained in it. Same result, i.e. multi-sz lines not converted. BTW, if you are still interested in your project, the rgu-file I want to get converted is attached.
jwoegerbauer said:
the rgu-file I want to get converted is attached
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As it turns out, .rgu files are not identical to .reg files. I've had a look around, but haven't been able to find a specification for the .rgu file format, but the "multi_sz:" thing is definitely not compatible with the .reg file format.
It would be nice to be able to support .rgu files too, and if I can get a spec for them I might even update the project to do so, but I can't just assume that they are identical except for multi-strings and then claim support for them.
If you can get your registry data in a .reg file instead of a .rgu, RegToXml will be able to process it.
Alex
AlexVallat said:
As it turns out, .rgu files are not identical to .reg files. I've had a look around, but haven't been able to find a specification for the .rgu file format, but the "multi_sz:" thing is definitely not compatible with the .reg file format.
It would be nice to be able to support .rgu files too, and if I can get a spec for them I might even update the project to do so, but I can't just assume that they are identical except for multi-strings and then claim support for them.
If you can get your registry data in a .reg file instead of a .rgu, RegToXml will be able to process it.
Alex
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Created with CeRegEditor a .REG-file which contains hex(7) <=> multi_sz lines - I've attached it. Same result as previously reported: Lines containing a hex(7) <=> multi-sz value weren't converted. I give up, thank you for your time.
BTW: the delimiter,terminator for multi-sz values in provxml-files is
Code:
<parm name="TestValueMultiString" value="string1string2string3" datatype="multiplestring" />
Appendix:
People knowing of MortScript might use this script I created to batch-process the RegToXML converter:
Code:
#RegToXML.mscr
ErrorLevel("warn")
Local()
SetMessageFont(12, "Tahoma")
Path = SystemPath("ScriptPath")
MST = MortScriptType()
If(MST ne "PC")
BigMessage("^NL^This script is intended^NL^to be run at your desktop PC.^NL^Hence you must use^NL^MortScript's PC Version !!!", , FileBase(Path))
Exit
EndIf
BigMessage("Put .REG file(s) in the^NL^\REG_Original directory.", FileBase(Path))
If(FileExists(Path\"REG_Converted\*.reg"))
Delete(Path\"REG_Converted\*.reg")
EndIf
ForEach reg In Files(Path\"REG_Original\*.reg")
SetFileAttribute(reg, "system", FALSE)
SetFileAttribute(reg, "readonly", FALSE)
EndForEach
Xcopy(Path\"REG_Original\*.reg", Path\"REG_Converted", TRUE, TRUE)
idx = 0
ForEach reg In Files(Path\"REG_Converted\*.reg")
idx += 1
RunWait("RegToXml.exe", reg)
Delete(reg)
EndForEach
idx2 = 0
ForEach xml In Files(Path\"REG_Converted\*.xml")
idx2 += 1
EndForEach
BigMessage("" & idx & " file(s) processed^NL^" & idx2 & " file(s) converted", FileBase(Path))
jwoegerbauer said:
Created with CeRegEditor a .REG-file which contains hex(7) <=> multi_sz lines - I've attached it. Same result as previously reported: Lines containing a hex(7) <=> multi-sz value weren't converted. I give up, thank you for your time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I took a look at the .reg file. Firstly, it isn't valid as the value names "\Storage Card\MioAutoRun\Programs\Microsoft .NET CF 3.5\Microsoft .NET CF 3.5.GAC" haven't got the \ characters escaped. I fixed that with a search and replace, but it also looks like the multi-string values contain unicode data, which is also not valid for the reg format. I don't know why CeRegEditor is producing invalid reg files like this.
As you are giving up, though, I won't pursue this any further.
Alex
Cleaning up reg/rgu
Thank you for your tool! I'm still using it in my Kitchen
I want to point out a nice other tool to clean up reg/rgu (delete duplicated stuff, sort it etc.) you and others might be interested in too;
[UTIL] REG/RGU Cleaner
Have fun cooking!
Senax
Related
Just published yesterday, another program MSCEInf (http://www.codeppc.com/telechargements/msceinf/msceinf.htm)
is a Cab Analyser which show you all the things done if you install a CAB on your PocketPC : Files, Registry settings, shortcuts...
It lets you extract all files with original names and build the inf file as it was build before compiled to CAB.
So you can make changes, if you need it, and rebuild the CAB with the program of Microsoft CABWIZ (installed by Microsoft Theme Generator).
It works with all Cabs (also with TSK which are Cabs with extension changed).
It is still in french! but easy to understand. If you find that it is helpful, i can translate it in "loosely" english !
Like ThemeGenCE, it accepts "Open With" command and Drag and Drop on the window (drag and drop a cab on the opened window).
Friendly, Benoît
Thanks benoit - an english version would be nice - my french is not that good :wink:
English version has been sent to the webmaster of CodePPC 5 minutes ago.
Maybe on line today... or in two months...
Friendly, BenThon
MSCEInf in English
Now available in English !
http://www.codeppc.com/telechargements/msceinf/MSCEInfEn.zip
Friendly, BenThon
Merci bien Benoit pour MSCEInf.
It's a great one.
thx
Re: MSCEInf in English
BenThon said:
Now available in English !
http://www.codeppc.com/telechargements/msceinf/MSCEInfEn.zip
Friendly, BenThon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks benoit!
Nice app. Very well done.
tip: can you make clicking the column header sorting that column?
Cheers
Yes, it is possible. But I have just sent to the webmaster of CodePPC a version 1.3.8 with "cosmetic" improvements.
Maybe for the next one ...
Friendly, Benoît
Nice app. Very well done.
tip: can you make clicking the column header sorting that column?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In which pages do you think it will be useful ?
Thanks
Sorry for the late reply.
I also use your app when checking what is installed. Sometimes the deinstallation of apps is not perfect on ppc.
So sorting on items that I want to remove (files/dirs and registry hives)
would be very useful.
But is sorting when clicking the column header not default? I assume not.
Is it possible to make it extract only selected files from the cab?
Thanks
Sort Tabs
I have just implemented the alpha sort for each columns in each tabs.
I will put in the next version. Thanks for the suggestion !
I can send you this version if you give me a mail.
Friendly, Benoît
New Version of MSCEInf (1.3.9)
New Version of MSCEInf (1.3.9)
Improvements :
1) Alphabetic sort on each column in each tab.
2) New button for choosing files to extract :
Either check the checkboxes for selecting files to extract.
Or Drag and Drop files to the right column of selected files and also the ability to unselect file by Drag and Drop from the column of selected files to the recycled bin.
3) Links, About box...
4) Cosmetics...
MSCEInf Webpage
Thanks benoit - i find myself using this program more and more!
Look forward to future updates :wink:
Thanks.
If you are planning more opstions ;O)
- extract using the full path name (directory structure)
- drag & drop from the Files tab directly (with posibbility to do a selection
with the more (click, ctrl+click etc)
Got an error once reusing the already started program when dropping a cab onto it. It wasn't the cab. Retried it but could not reproduce it.
The error was in french while I use he english version.
Again great prgram. I use it nearly every day now.
Cheers
Nice App,
A super feature would be if you can double Click a file and open it with its associated application or as second option notepad (or favorite editor). so you can have a look inside with extracting all first.
Maybe even save it back afer modifictions or a feature to replace an existing file.
@BenThon
Nice tool, great work!
In the right direction to become a full alternative to 'WinCE CAB Manager', for which author claims 149US$ :evil:
If we could delete/ insert new entries/files directly in your tool and rebuilt the CAB, it would be superb ;-)
Suugestions for MSCEInf
Thanks for your encouragements !
My comments :
1) Extract files with full path name : not difficult to do (maybe later).
2) Drag and Drop from Files Tab : not difficult to do (maybe later).
3) Double click and open files with
- associated application
- Notepad
not difficult to do (maybe later).
4) Delete/Insert new entries and rebuild the cab : more laborious to do. But you can use the rebuild INF file after editing and Cabwiz to rebuild the cab. It is not difficult to do.
Next version of MSCEInf (1.4) is quite finished. Now, the program also read the _setup.xml file and extract all datas in it. It also rebuild a traditional INF file.
PS : Maybe, instead of the 145 $ for Cab Manager, my program will become a Cardware (postcard from your location)...
Work in Progress !
2) Drag and Drop from Files Tab : not difficult to do (maybe later).
3) Double click and open files with
- associated application
- Notepad
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Points 2) and 3) are now implemented. Will be published with future version !
Point 1) for tomorrow !... Maybe...
building cab files...
anyone out there know of any good tutorials for using cabwiz and building an inf file from scratch? I have looked and looked! Basically I want to build some basic theme cabs and a few cabs that make registry changes and then put them into my extended rom. (I do a lot of experimenting and therefore a lot of hard resets!)
thanks, jess
MSCEInf V1.4 New version on line !
Contributions of version 1.4
This version now allows the reading of the files "_ setup.xml" contained in the CAB :
- Rebuilt the tree structure of file XML with possibility of extending or of reducing branches of the tree.
- Also Rebuilt a conventional INF file (can be copied to the clipboard).
- Creates a Memo (can be copied to the clipboard) with the Register keys in a format of the Regedit type (for the "Geeks").
For the CABS with a conventional INF file like those with a "_setup.xml" file :
- Possibility of "Using Folder Names" for files saving.
- Additional Informations on the files with also possibility of sorting on these new columns :
- Size of the file.
- Date and Hour of the file.
- Type of the file (its extension).
- Possibility of Multiselection on the files (Shift, Control).
- Possibility Drag and Drop for one or more files towards the Explorer (Folder, Desktop...).
- Contextual Menu on the file under the cursor (Right Button) allowing :
- Open the file with the associated application (If it is a program - Extension "EXE" - the launching of the program is prohibited, which is surer. The icon of the program is shown) or "Open with..." if there is no association.
- Open the file with the Notepad.
If MSCEinf is defined as an application for opening CAB, the program will be loaded. If it was minimized, it will be restored.
If the button of Checking of Signature is activated, MSCEInf authorizes 2 signatures ' MSCE ' and ' CE4+ ' and only those (If it is not one of the two authorized signatures, the pointer of the mouse positions on the button of checking of signature after having posted a message of alarm). If not activated, there is no checking of the signature of the CAB.
With this version you can reorder columns in Files Tabs.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
CodePPC Page
MSCEInf Page
English Version
French Version
German Version
A .cab file is a file that you must activate from your phone from a file explorer of some sort. To get them onto your device, you mist set up an active sync connection and just drop the .cab file somewhere you can find it. it will then ask you where you want to save it, and viola, it works.
I know this Thread is kinda old by now, but i just got a question on the cab files.
So i see how u make them work now, BUT what exactly are they? what are they made of? what is their exact function?
.CABs are basically .exe files (for Windows) or .app files (on a Mac). They're executable files which install an app onto your device. Think of them as 'advanced' ZIP files.
.CABs are not a kind of .exe (executable) files! Think of them as advanced .ZIP files. A .CAB can be generated using CabWiz.exe (Pocket PC) or CabWizSP.exe (Smartphone). The source of a .CAB file is a .INF (Textfile with a special format - looks very similar the the good old Windows .INI file format) file.
On a WM device the .CAB file extension is associated with wceload.exe which executes the instructions contained in the .CAB file.
Microsoft Visual Studio will create .CAB for "Smart Device Projects" automatically but often they are not very useful. As a good developer you should consider writing own .inf file for your project so you have the full control what will happening if the user opens your .CAB on the device.
CAB = Cabinet
EDiT: Soon I'll try to make a more readable document about *.cab as is now as described below,
Actually *.cab files gives us WM5/6 Standard Professional users the power to configure our devices the way we want! And fast especially when User Customization is build into ROM thus SDConfig.txt + SDautorun.exe cq runcc.exe cq DevPrep is used! Then we 'the users' and 'ROM flashing junkies' get super fast multi mega provxml and cab battle installs on the fly
Here some Graphic User Interface (GUI) builds around several cabxxx.exe utilities ;
QuickCab was one of my sticky cab application(s)! It made my day several times Nowadays I'm using Extendir Cabs (below).
-=[ Screenshot1 ]=- -=[ Screenshot2 ]=-
::
Did you know that CAB files transfered via ActiveSync may be altered during the transfer process? If you have a CAB file which has been authenticode signed with a certificate, ActiveSync may strip off the certificate during the transfer process if it determines the connected device does not support signed cab files. This is something to be aware of, if you notice your CAB files won’t install if you download them across the network, but will if manually transfered via ActiveSync.
::
Extendir Cabs (with nice GUI) is an utility to create cab files.
Basically it’s a shell around cabarc.exe. It converts rgu/reg/xml/provxml files, create _setup.xml, create all the different install paths to optimize for Extendir (optionally you can switch this off). So it’s very easy to convert your tweaks or packages to a setup cab.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4033241&postcount=4
-=[ Screenshot ]=-
[APP] CabGen - easily create .cab from wap-provisioningdoc ONLiNE
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=441577
[APP] ai Cab Explorer utility: new way to explore cab files on your disk (view manila pictures, build multiple cabs album)
http://www.xda-developers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=561968
ProvXMLCreator [1.0][Autoconfiguration for WiFi, Certificates and email]
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=630094
reg/rgu-2-xml
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=386677
Registry format conversor: xml to reg
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=299308
Use SK-Tools (not free, though partly functional) it exports registry and can create a cab! It has also a reg editor. Plus.....
S-K-Tools main site!
http://www.s-k-tools.com/index.html?m_products.html
S-K-Tools freeware site! ;
http://www.s-k-tools.com/index.html?m_util.html Check these two free awesome applications;
CabInstl :
-=[ Screenshot animated ]=-
This program is an installer for CAB files and allows to install PocketPC programs into YOUR specified folder instead of that by default created by the standard installer!
SSNAP : REGiSTRY/~ SNAPSHOT 'N + 2nd SNAPSHOT and COMPARE on PocketPC!
-=[ Screenshot ]=-
The program takes a snap-shot of the state of PocketPC that is useful for monitoring of changes on PocketPC, e.g. those made during installation of programs. To compare snaps of two different PocketPC states it is possible to use the utility iDiffCE on your PocketPC (see below) or any other utilities for comparison of text files on desktop PC – e.g. ExamDiff.. or Total Commander (PC version) (TC it's; Compare files by content function).
What is saved in a snap:
- contents of the registry (keys and valuess);
- listing of the file system (folders and ffiles; for files their dates and sizes are saved, the control sum is counted up);
- state of system databases (the list, the size, number of records, date of the last update).
Usefull tools for packaging and development issues
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/198038/
[Personal Computer]
[APP] Pocket PC Themes Toolkit v1.03
After installing this application.. magically cabwiz.ddf , CabWiz.exe and makecab.exe appeared within its directory just when I needed them!!! *cough*
[UTILITY] CabTools - ROM package <--> CAB converters and more. For ROM builders!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=467842
Free Microsoft XML Notepad 2007;
http://www.microsoft.com/DownLoads/...49-787d-4118-ba5f-4f30fe913628&displaylang=en
(FYI: manually press download)
Download cabsdk.exe ( http://theether.net/download/Microsoft/Utilities/ ) for documents that describe the internal structures of CabinetFiles, samples to use from C and a description of cabinet.dll.
(FYI: cabsdk.exe is a compressed executable zip file).
Universal Extractor (guess what; it supports cab(!) and so.. so much more (like *.msi). Running from CLI is no problem eighter, which is great for batch processing).
http://legroom.net/software/uniextract
-=[ Screenshot1 ]=- -=[Screenshot2 ]=- -=[ Screenshot ]=-
WinCE cab Manager not free
-=[ Screenshot ]=-
CEcabManager TiP; Get your desired *.cab!
1) keep PDA disconnected (no active sync session)
2) install exe as usual and, when standard installation dialog will appear, go on (later cab installation will begin when you'll connect phone to pc)
3) open (on PC) regedit.exe
4) go to this key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows CE Services\AppMgr\Apps
5) there you'll find a list of installable cabs via active sync
6) under each application, the value ListCabFiles is the name of cab file and the value InstallDir is its position of file system.
Remember to uninstall exe after you copy/move the cab file (or delete application key) otherwise installation of cab files will start on next activesync session!!
Simple, isn't it?
MSCEInf FREEWARE
Version 2.6 (developed in Delphi 2007 for W32)
-=[ Screenshot ]=-
http://www.codeppc.com/telechargements/msceinf/msceinf.htm
above webpage Translated into English
MSCEInf (aka MSCEInf.exe) is a fantastic piece of kit that allows the user to inspect the contents of .cab (and .tsk) files.
In addition, the program enables you to extract files from a .cab, and use embedded XML or INF files to construct the relevant .rgu or initflashfiles entries.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Version française French Version
English version English version
Deutsche Version Deutsche Version
Versione Italiana Versione Italiana
Versione Spagnola Versione Spagnola
Version Néerlandaise (hollandaise) Version Netherlands (Holland)
CABpack ; http://www.larshederer.homepage.t-online.de/cabpack.htm
Pocket PC Installation Creator 2.6 - Not Free Handy tool for creating exectutable PPC apps
http://pocket-pc-installation-creator.en.softonic.com/pocketpc
A few links I stumbled upon recently;
MS-Cabinet File WrapperClasses
http://www.codeproject.com/KB/files/cabfileclass.aspx
Cabinet File (*.CAB) Compression and Extraction
http://www.codeproject.com/KB/files/CABCompressExtract.aspx
How to implement creation and extraction of Microsoft CAB files
CDirectoryChangeWatcher - ReadDirectoryChangesW all wrapped up
http://www.codeproject.com/KB/files/directorychangewatcher.aspx
This class wraps up ReadDirectoryChangesW.
CTextFileDocument
http://www.codeproject.com/KB/files/textfiledocument.aspx
CTextFileDocument lets you write and read text files with different encodings (ASCII, UTF-8, Unicode 16 little/big endian are supported).
CEregEditor : CEregEditor is free ware and runs on PC in combination with ActiveSync. It allows editing of the registry of the PocketPC right on your PC. Extra's; it dan import/export *.cab files! Use the compare tool to save an image of the registry (F2) then after installing a cab, use Images -> compare registry.
-=[ Screenshot attached as picture ]=-
Senax
Hello,
To be as short as possible:
I'm trying to cook a Polish ROM out of the dump of a well known WWE ROM around here (of course under a permission of the noble Chef). I managed to find/edit/translate all the neccesary *.mui, *_manila and *.htm files and the outcome appears OK but I have one issue I can't really work out by an easy way. I mean the "Settings" shortcut in StartMenu. I want it to be called "Ustawienia" as it's called in Polish.
I know that the names/paths of several system folders are stored in the package called Base_Lang_0415 which consists of several mui files. I know that the Settings name/path is stored in "shellres.dll.mui".
Now the problem: I got a Base_Lang_0415 from one of Polish chefs but the package changes physical paths to almost all the system folders like
Start Menu -> Menu Start
Programs -> Programy
Settings -> Ustawienia
Favorites -> Ulubione
My Documents -> Moje dokumenty
and many other (i don't even know which ones).
Since I can only work on the ROM dump without any kitchen (and honestly I don't need a kitchen since I only exchange some mui and manila files and add some reg entries - at least up to now), I try to avoid influence on the folders structure. On the other hand I think it doesn't make sense to rename all these folders because an average user will not even notice the change. I want the change only the appearance of the Start Menu and I don't really care about what would be the names of physical folders.
So I started trying to edit only the shellres.dll.mui (with Unsign -> ResHacker -> Sign procedure). First I changed only the string Settings into Ustawienia living the physical path string intact.
But after exchanging the mui file in \Windows\ the Start Menu showed only one icon - Today.
So I changed the name entry and the path entry and changed the physical path of the \Windows\Start Menu\Settings into \Windows\Start Menu\Ustawienia.
But the effect with the new mui was the same and additionally my "Ustawienia" folder has been moved to the Programs folder.
I tested some other combinations of the strings inside mui and physical paths but without any positive effect.
Does some of you know what do I have to do to change only the Settings folder but not to change all the rest?
I understand that you want to do these out of kitchen? I think you should dump an original rom of your own lang and take a look at the initflashfiles.dat. This archive describes the names of windows folders, including Settings
or using a good Mortscript.......
Well, working on dump is not very convinient but as soon as I perform only file/registry operations it's not so bad.
I have the original initflashfiles.dat from stockROM, so I know more less which paths I should change in to new ones. The problem is that everytime my Chef releases new version of his ROM I would have to compare his new initflashfiles with the old initflashfiles for changes and apply the changes manually to the initflashfiles from the stockROM.
But for me it would be the best If I could edit shellres.dll.0415.mui only once changing the name and/or path ONLY for Settings folder, and eventually rename only the Settings folder. Thats a solution I am looking for.
I used MortScript to rename shortcuts inside StartMenu -> Programs. But the problem is that I can run mort i.e. by a config.txt file, but in this moment all the system folders which have the -permdir- attribute in initflashfiles are not moveable or renameable. Also the files inside all the system folders are not deleteable and this means I would have to COPY all the files into new catalogues making the ROM bigger and bigger.
That's why I think I must influence the initflashfiles if I am to use Base_Lang_0415. And this is OK if I would have to modify 1 or 2 paths, but I don't want to modify 25 paths or so...
So my only chance is that somebody would post yet another way to make the Settings appear as Ustawienia (with or without modyfying physical directories).
I don't know how to explain it better because of my English...
Well, i have to agree that Initflashfiles thing is the best way and ,dont worrie, i doubt that your Chef will change Initflashfile for every Rom,even, i never change it from the beginning.
Isn't the initflashfiles a place where are all the files that are indended to be copied/linked to other locations than \Windows\?
That means every new program file or even start menu shortcut will appear in initflashfiles, doesn't it?
Nope.
You can also create Folders in it..little example:
Code:
Directory("\Windows\Start Menu"):-PermDir("Settings")
Skrobel said:
Isn't the initflashfiles a place where are all the files that are indended to be copied/linked to other locations than \Windows\?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope.
When we import a new program file we have an app.dat file that has inside the instructions to copy files/shortcut over Windows, Initflashfiles its no more touched for that purpose.
Another little example:
Code:
Directory("\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Tools"):-File("Total Commander.lnk","\Windows\Total Commander.lnk")
This come from App.dat , as you can see it works like Initflashfile.
That means every new program file or even start menu shortcut will appear in initflashfiles, doesn't it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But in case you have to do Hard Reset, all will be lost. And twice...
I think the best option is cook it in first time. Best regards
Well that's what I meant that initflashfiles consists of the paths (directories and files) of all the things we want to put in different folders than \Windows\.
And yes - I want to cook all the Polish files to make it a normal ROM (also after HR).
But in order to clarify:
You Guys say that the only way to rename the Settings in StartMenu is to cook the whole Base_Lang_0415 and to change all the paths in initflashfiles?
Hello all
Sorry for refreshing such an old thread but over a year later I bumped into the exactly same problem.
The only difference is that I use PRB kitchen this time (Jackos's kitchen to be exact).
And all I want to do is to rename the freakin' "Settings" into "Ustawienia" in Start Menu. I thought I found all the references to the Start Menu. I altered the Shellres.dll.0415.mui (responsible for most of system paths), I altered initflashfiles.dat to prepare a permDir in \Windows\Start Menu\Ustawienia, I changed all the keys in registry that I could find...
But still after a flash I have an empty Start Menu with only "Today" link. When I look into the directory structure with Total Commander, everything seems to be OK (all the structure in \Windows\Start Menu\programs is fine) except that my "Ustawienia" folder has been moved from \Start Menu\ to \Start Menu\Programs\
I don't know how, I don't know what else am I missing.
Please help me to get my full translation of the Start Menu...
You're missing "Settings" folder
Actually, full fixing of this stuff isn't that easy, these paths should be hardcodded somewhere (i think so)
Actually it is as easy as it can be.
Made a quick test with Polish language without changing anything and all works as it should.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Well, I've seen Polish ROMs so it actually has to be possible.
@Spiaatie - can you tell me HOW you actually did it?
I see that all the Start Menu links are in Polish on your screenshot. I presume you exchanged at least Base_Lang_0415 package and at least initflashfiles.dat?
Skrobel said:
@Spiaatie - can you tell me HOW you actually did it?
I see that all the Start Menu links are in Polish on your screenshot. I presume you exchanged at least Base_Lang_0415 package and at least initflashfiles.dat?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I took 23153 as the Base and all Polish language packages from 28205.
And initflashfiles.dat from [here]
Well... This is a proof that it can be done. However I don't wan't to build up a new ROM. I downloaded Jackos' kitchen just to be able to prepare his ROM in Polish.
Jackos used 21690 for his ROMs as a Base. But actually it is a mixture of packages from many different builds choosen carefully and tested for maximum compatibility and stability.
I want to stay as close to the original as possible except for the language. Honestly I had to prepare many of the .mui files myself because none of the "ready" 0415 build packages worked with Jackos ROM. And now as I have a set of fully working .muis I want to include them into the kitchen (actually I already did it), change any further files I have to change (I copied all the 0409 packages, checked each of them file by file including app.reg, app.dat, provxml etc. altering them basing on files I found in polish packages over the internet). And I bumped into the Start Menu problem.
I will check everything once again but I thought some of you might know where else the paths are stored in the system besides .mui, initflasfiles and the [HKLM\Security\Shell\StartInfo\Start].
There must be a way to change the paths properly...
I finally found a proper copy of shellres.dll.0415.mui. I had to adjust the initflashfiles.dat a bit, and of course paths in all my app.dat. But I have no idea why this shellres.....mui works with this ROM and the other ones doesn't work. The resource structure looks completely the same. All the resource IDs are filled.
Only RCML_DLGDATA section looks differently. I mean the resource IDs are the same, but they have different data. I don't know what and how should I change because everything in there is binary data.
However ultrashot must had been right. The paths have to be hardcoded somewhere else, because in this .mui file the name "Today" is translated differently into "Główny", which directly means "Main". I tried to change this translation, but there are many occurences of this word in this file, and whatever I change in any of it (of course I started with changing all of them) I immediately havethe problem that my Start Menu consists only of the Today link (correctly translated ).
So I left it like it is.
I'm sure however that everythings that concerns Start Menu naming and structure is stored in this single file, because I changed only this file out of the whole Base_Lang_0415 package.
You need to use an mxip_lang.vol that already contains the translation for the call to the settings. Best is to pick one from any shipped ROM of the same version that has your language included.
On smartphone it is settings.lnk, on your device possible settings.cpl (not sure).
Look at the provxml files how other localizations are done and create one in a similar way for your item.
Edit: look at the "Beginners Guide to Windows Mobile (prepare for cooking)" in my signature - you find all the basics for localization there.
Hello Tobbbie,
Thanks for the advice. I read your tutorial many months ago. Actually I kept an eye on your discussion within the OSbuilder thread...
This time I'm almost sure that mxip_lang.vol has not much to do as I have one copy of shellres....mui with which I get "Settings" in my start menu, and I have 2 different versions of the same file which gives me "Ustawienia" (the one I want). So it has to be independent on the other files. The problem starts when I try to adjust the paths myself. It seems like the String resources are somehow connected with binary data stored in this file.
If about the mxip_lang and generally .vol files: do you know how they can be edited by any chance?
Skrobel said:
If about the mxip_lang and generally .vol files: do you know how they can be edited by any chance?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those are databases, that's my clue for you today.
Surprisingly I know!
But that's not a big clue for me. I never had much to do with databases, and in this particular case uncle Google refused to help me...
i thought it would be handy to create a thread for icon tutorials that are simple to use and understand
feel free to add your own tutorials here or ask any questions, if i am not able to answer then i hope someone else will
if you do post a differant way of doing icons, please explain it step by step so the newer chefs can follow instructions easily. your tutorial will be added to this first post. this way all the tutorials will be in one post, users dont need to find it, they simply just scroll to the next tutorial
(all tutorials will be quoted for credits)
*you can find plenty of free icons @ WWW.ICONFINDER.COM
**the way ill be showing you is with the icons inside a .dll that you can link to almost anything
eg, program shortcuts within the start menu is the most common**
firstly you will need to download some tools needed
download tools here
(inside tools.rar is: icofx, reshacker, blank .dll)
##########
##########
##########
*install and open ICOFX
*click: tools
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
*batch prosess
*if your doing start menu icons i use 128x128 with xp colors (max color)
add the icons you want and select the destination folder and click ok
*icons with a specific height and width are best to do these individually =
file\new or drag and drop your .PNG and select custom size
*now you have made your own custom icons.
*i have attatched a blank .dll in the winrar file below, just rename it.
*i have opened the blank .dll and added a custom icon so you can see how it works.
*it is simple enough, icons added will be labled 1,2,3 etc - then click save when done
(delete the automaticly saved .BAC file created by icofx, it is not needed)
*to link your icon to a specific program on your device, either edit your program XXXX.lnk or create a new .lnk
(rename a blank .txt file to .lnk)
*add this into the the .lnk replacing the XXXX with your program name and .dll name
#\windows\XXXX.exe ?\windows\XXXX.dll,-X
*no number before # eg, usually you would have a number of how many leters are in the link = the amount of letters is not needed
*-X is the number position of the icon inside the .dll
*if your icon is for a folder, rename the .lnk to ICON.lnk
*inside the icon.lnk should be
1#XXXX.dll, -X
*now put the ICON.lnk into the specific folder you want icon for
##########
##########
##########
**i will now show you how to edit/replace the icon inside either a .dll or an .exe file**
*in this example i have used the blank .dll from the first tutorial
*reshacker shows all the contents inside a .dll and also with .exe files too (not just icons)
*open/run RESHACKER
*click: file\open - select your .dll or .exe
*as you can see i have circled the icon number with red = ignore the highlighted 0 (zero)
*rightclick to get these avaliable options
*from here you will be able to replace the icon
*when finished click file\save
*it automaticly creates a XXXXX-original.dll/.exe file
*some .exe do not like their icons being changed.
##########
##########
##########
FInixNOve said:
* Unsigner - to remove the digital signature from the dll.
* Multiple file Signer - to digitally re-sign the finished dll.
* First, remove the digital signature from the dll you’re going to edit, because the icons you’ll be replacing later can have different color depths and that will leave you with an unusable dll (meaning that you’ll not be able to re-sign it).
o To unsign a file, all you have to do is drag the dll/mui file over the unsigner.exe and release it. A command window will open and close. You will know if the file has been unsigned by checking its size (it will be smaller). Also remember that the file can't be as read only or the tool will not be able to unsign it.
* Then, using the resource editor extract the icons, you wish to edit, from the dll.
* With the icon creator application, or by searching the web, make/get your icons.
* After this, use the resource editor once again to replace the now edited icons inside the dll.
* To finish, re-sign the dll using the Multiple File Signer tool
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ill update this tutorial as soon as i can
thanks
Rn
Thanks nice to see this so quickly .
Cheers!!!
Great
So, help me, please How do I set it up in my reg file (assuming my dll is called Start_Icon.dll):
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Security\Shell\StartInfo\Start\Today] <<=folder
"Icon"="\\Windows\\Start_Icon_Today.png"
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Security\Shell\StartInfo\Start\Java\JavaShortcut.lnk] <<=shortcut
"Icon"="\\Windows\\Start_Icon_Javashortcut.png"
Thank you.
you do not need to add any registrys
best part of doing icons my way
(also assuming you have done the first tutorial with icofx)
create new .lnk
open .lnk with notepad and add this:
* FOR TODAY FOLDER ICON
1#Start_Icon.dll, -X
*rename .lnk to ICON.lnk
*put .lnk into start menu/programs/today FOLDER
*if your cooking then i suggest you rename the icon.lnk to something else when copying the .lnk to start menu/programs/today - otherwise the windows folder will have the icon for your today folder (eg icon.lnk in windows folder will change the windows folder icon)
* use this in initflashes.txt to move/rename your .lnk = Directory("\start menu\programs\today\"):-File("ICON.lnk.","\Windows\MYTODAYICON.lnk")
* FOR JAVA SHORTCUT
#\windows\java.exe ?\windows\Start_Icon.dll,-X
*java.exe (or what ever java program you are using)
(-X = number location of icon inside .dll)
*eg, if the icon number is 1 then you will have -1
Rn
Thanks raving_nanza. However, I noticed .ico files are much larger than .png files. What's the advantage with doing it this way?
Thanks
illi said:
Thanks raving_nanza. However, I noticed .ico files are much larger than .png files. What's the advantage with doing it this way?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
icos are used in dlls or exes, where as pngs are used only in startmenu using registry. Hence icos are much smaller, but lower in quality compared to pngs...
all your .ico in one single .dll rather than having X amout of .png's clogging up the windows folder. (cleaner)
no registrys to write, just edit the .lnk to the program (registrys use memory, no registry needed)
if editing the .exe directly and replacing the icon (no memory added)
ico drawing is definitely faster.
Thanks for the clarification guys. I appreciate it very much
Use ResHacker to change icon in EXE,DLL file
yeah dude, use reshacker to edit .dll or .exe
use icofx to edit the icon.
(i use photoshop and then convert a .png to .ico)
Rn
MsSigner
Hi,
I've edited the taskbar dlls and changed the icons, but then I'm not able to make them to work.
This tutorial is missing the signature issue.
I've found that dlls need to be signed after modification, and seems that also need to unsigned before editing.
Found the tolls (UnSigner, Signer, and WM65Certs), but I guess that I'm making a mistake in the process.
Can someone indicate how to edit taskbar dlls? (E.G: phcanOverbmp.dll, shellres.192.dll, tapres.192.dll, etc)
- Does original MS dlls need to be unsign before editing?
- Which certificate need to be used for signing?
- how to add the certificate to the cab? Anyone have a cab with the new certificate?
Have someone use restorator instead or reshacker?
Best regards
EDIT
Found this [TUT] from FInixNOver
Do we need a new sdkcerts.cab if we sign dlls using the new certificates?
FInixNOver said:
How to make your own set of Battery Icons:
You'll need some programs, and of course, the dll.
Unsigner - to remove the digital signature from the dll.
Reshack / PE Explorer / Restorator - resource editor to extract/replace the icons inside the dll
iconFX or any other icon editor (GIMP can also handle .ico files) - to edit/create icons
Multiple file Signer - to digitally re-sign the finished dll.
How to do it?
First, remove the digital signature from the dll you’re going to edit, because the icons you’ll be replacing later can have different color depths and that will leave you with an unusable dll (meaning that you’ll not be able to re-sign it).
To unsign a file, all you have to do is drag the dll/mui file over the unsigner.exe and release it. A command window will open and close. You will know if the file has been unsigned by checking its size (it will be smaller). Also remember that the file can't be as read only or the tool will not be able to unsign it.
Then, using the resource editor extract the icons, you wish to edit, from the dll.
With the icon creator application, or by searching the web, make/get your icons.
After this, use the resource editor once again to replace the now edited icons inside the dll.
To finish, re-sign the dll using the Multiple File Signer tool.
That's it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i use reshacker
if their not working after you have signed them, then i think you need to install sdkcerts.cab to your device , softreset and then install/overwrite your old .dlls in the windows folder - and then softreset again
i might be wrong though so dont quote me on that. 60/40
*ill add the sign/unsign to the firsty post
Reshacker & CeleSign
For Sign-Unsign I use CeleSign. It´s very intuitive. The certificates are updated. Just run CeleSign, [not signsis neither SISSigner (inside also)] setup pvc, spc and file to unsign-sign. If the file is signed you must remove the certificate for sign after. Regards
It would also help you guys customizing your own icons in Start Menu by using my JWMD Icon Changer
more stuff at my sig
I want to replace phcanhtc.dll and phcanrc.dll with these dll (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=5910397#post5910397) for wm6.5.3 with all fixes but I do not know how to do it.
I've searched on forum without relevant results.
Please help
me too, i really dont know
Why not simply, when device is booting i.e. processing HKLM\init, override old dll-version with new dll-version?
Code:
Launch9999="CopyDLLs.exe"
Depend9999=hex:14,00,1E,00
Could You elaborate a bit on that information? I mean, what is "CopyDLLs.exe" and how does it work? Where to find more information about it (Google doesn't return much...)? What is the "Depend" key and what does that HEX mean?
TIA
Thought the concept behind the solution proposal I outlined above is reconstructable to everyone:
1) you simply add two lines to [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\init] with which an executable ( of your choice, I use freeware TULL.exe for those reasons - you can name it how you want to do it, ex. CopyDLLs.exe ) is started. BTW: 'DependXXXX' is the load order index for 'LaunchXXXX' and 'hex' indicates that it's a binary value.
2) using TULL.exe you create a related .INI-file that is read by TULL.exe (or renamed to CopyDLLs.exe, what I think is more meaningful) with contents like this:
Code:
;overide xyz dll
C "\Save\xyz.dll" "\Windows\xyz.dll"
;done
FYI: TULL.exe you can downlad here
Thank You for that valuable information! I have been using and customizing WM four years now and I have so far understood that it's impossible to replace DLL-s which are in ROM and cannot be overwritten with Resco or similar file manager. Although I don't need it anymore (I would have a year ago), it's still good to know. One question tho, if I may... By asking "what does hex mean" I didn't really mean that, I know there are DWORDs, binary values etc, sorry about that I actually meant what does that value do. But You already answered that. I still wonder, how is that load order index constructed, I mean, how do I know what to put there?
TIA.
OverWrite vs. Override
1) You have to distinguish between terms 'overwrite' (i.e. physical replacement) and 'override' (i.e. logical replacement). The method I suggested is to 'override' a DLL before its first use. If a DLL is already loaded, the method of course will NOT work (only the internal DLL counter is incremented by 1)!
2) With regards to how determine DependXXXX value (excerpt from http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa446914.aspx):
The other option for launching an application at boot time is to use the HKLM\Init keys, this requires that the application call back into the operating system by calling SignalStarted( ); to let the operating system know that the application is running. The reason for this is that the HKLM\Init keys have two parts, LaunchXX and DependXX. The LaunchXX key (where XX is a numeric value) simply points at the executable to launch. For example, take the following snippet from my operating system image registry file (once the operating system is built, the complete registry can be examined in text form in the build release folder as reginit.ini)
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\init]
"Launch10"="shell.exe"
"Launch20"="device.exe"
"Depend20"=hex:0a,00
"Launch30"="gwes.exe"
"Depend30"=hex:14,00
The snippet from the registry above launches three processes, Shell, Device, and GWES. Notice that device.exe (Launch20) has a dependency on Hex:0a (10 decimal). This equates to Launch10, or shell.exe, so the Shell process needs to signal the operating system that it's up and running so that any dependencies (in this case device.exe) can then be started. The same is also true of gwes.exe (launch30), device.exe depends on hex:14 (20 decimal), so GWES can't run until device.exe calls SignalStarted.
OK, thank You again for the thorough explanation. I just want to confirm one thing - as far as I understand from that description, it would also be possible to launch an *.exe which will copy and overwrite the original DLL before it's loaded in boot order? I ask because a bunch of the DLL files cannot be overwritten after the device has booted. Like I said, some of the files in ROM can be overwritten and some cannot be. I have so far suspected that the ones that cannot be overwritten cannot be overwritten because a) they are already loaded; b) they are locked by some process. I cannot imagine any other mechanism that distinguishes between one DLL and another. Would it work or am I missing something here?
You didn't read it carefully
Again: YOU HAVE TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN OVERWRITE AND OVERRIDE. We all know that a file located in ROM never can be 'overwritten', but 'overridden', this due to the fact how WinCE searches for a DLL called by an application: 1 -> in directory where the application is located, 2 -> in folder \Windows, 3 -> in folder declared in CE's SystemPath and 4) finally in ROM.
Ending this excursion into the world of WinCE: If you make the desired DLL-copy-operations directly after device.exe (CE 5) / device.dll (CE 6) has done its job (means file system is mounted and ready to be used) you can 'override' each ROM-located DLL if it isn't already lasting (loaded) in RAM, means you simply copy new version of DLL to folder \Windows. BTW: The DLLs you see in \Windows might be located in ROM, or not ( i.e. located in RAM - folder \Windows itself is RAM), this depends on how OEM implemented this.
Only a practical example I've in use:
Code:
;
;increase storage memory (KB)
W \NandFlash\CE-Utilities\SetSystemMemoryDivisionKB.exe, 3072
; delay execution by the passed value in milliseconds
D 1000
;load backlight settings
W \NandFlash\CE-Utilities\regimp.exe, /f:\NandFlash\MyRegistry\backlight.ini /s
W \NandFlash\CE-Utilities\RegFlushKeys.exe
;prepare using .NET CF 3.5 instead .NET CF 2.0 (ROM located)
C "\NandFlash\NetCFCfg\device.config" "\Windows\device.config"
[COLOR="Red"]C "\NandFlash\MyCESystemPath\mscoree.dll" "\Windows\mscoree.dll"[/COLOR]
; delay execution by the passed value in milliseconds
D 1000
Original ROM-located mscoree.dll (part of pre-installed .NET CF 2.0) gets overriden with mscoree.dll that comes with .NET CF 3.5, thus now .NET CF 3.5 is running instead of .NET CF 2.0
Thanks again for Your answer, which is again thorough and informative. Basically You answered "Yes" to my question I say this because - as I am not as knowledgeable about WinCE system as You are - it seems I just call the process that You describe as "overriding" simply "overwriting". This is because I wasn't aware how WinCE searches for a file or how the \Windows\ folder contents is handled / processed. And also because when I copy a DLL file to \Windows\ folder, Resco simply asks "Do You want to overwrite...?" etc I am not a WinCE developer, I'm simply an enthusiast and I might call things more simply, sorry for that. But I think I got valuable information from You one way or another and the most important thing is, I got the point. However You call it.
@jwoegerbauer: Thanks friend for the nice examples and explanations .
Cheers!!!
I want to copy a new NLS file to a WinCE device, before system was loaded.
I've tried to do what you suggested here, jwoegerbauer, with my Mio C520.
I've wrote registry keys to activate the sciprt I wrote, before the system loaded - with no success.
I've tried both MortScript and TULL as script-language - both with no success.
The registry keys that I've tried to import are:
Code:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\init]
"Launch25"="\My Flash Disk\Temp\CopyNLS.exe"
I've tried also to import
Code:
"Depend25"=hex:14,00
which cause the system to freeze in the main menu (before MP is loaded), and
Code:
"Depend30"=hex:14,00,28,00
which cause the system to freeze in the boot load.
I'll be happy to know what else can I try to activate the code.
If the wince.nls is located in the XIP already you cannot override it. It is loaded before the FAT partition is there and the filter driver could redirect calls to the FAT copy of a dll.
You need to re-cook with the wince.nls moved to the SYS, seems however that some specialties need to be taken care of when doing so (search here at XDA for this).
So, I understand that my only option is to implant a soft-reset during the installaion of MioPocket.
Do you know how to do soft-reset with those chinese devices?
Reset does not help you if the wince.nls is located in the XIP. You will not be able to replace it with any means - the OS will load it before you have any chance to interfere.
Your only option is to replace the OS (with a cooked one) where the wince.nls is different from the start - or where it is not located in the XIP partition.
Why do you want to replace the wince.nls? Probably your problem can be solved another way?
Well, actually, in the Mio C520 - reset does help me. It's re-written the wince.nls file with the one I copied, and used it very well.
My problem now is my Chinese device, based on WinCE 6.0 embedded.
I've installed MioPocket on it, and translate some of the words to Hebrew. The problem is that the hebrew is 'backwards', meaning if for ex. instead of "Hello" - It'll show "olleH".
Here is screenshot of both devices, to the left is the Mio C520, which is OK, and to the right is the Chinese device, which is written 'backwords'
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
So I thoght - maybe, if I'll made the Chinese device to do soft-reset, just like the Mio - maybe the problem will be solved.
But maybe you are right, and there's completely another solution to this problem. I sure hope there is...
Well, I can neither read Chinese nor Hebrew - so nothing to guide you here.
Not sure what you wanted to achieve with the new wince.nls
What I understood is that this files basically gives you all the entries in the Locale panel of the settings file - so where you can select the format of the time/date or currency. First you select the Locale (not UI language which is a different setting) and then you can pick for each of the items defined by this locale set the relevant options that are stored in the wince.nls file. It also holds all menu items of that local setting in all languages - which makes it quite big depending on the number of languages supported.
So if you could "replace" the wince.nls, then for sure it is not in the XIP and all my previous comments are useless for you.
If you are after swapping the direction of writing on your device this is a totally different thing. I am sure it is not part of the .nls but a system setting for the UI part of the device. You may need to search for "Arabic Support" or alike in the Windows CE forums around the world. I have not seen much discussed here at XDA for this specialty.
Good luck!
After a search inside the GPS file system (I forgot to mention that in the original menu of the GPS the Hebrew was just fine - meaning from right to left - what led me to think there's something in the OS responsible for that) - I found a file named SetLanguage.exe which may be repsosible to display the hebrew in the right direction.
Anyone in here can hex the file and understand what's it's usage?
I attached also file named Arab.dll, maybe is also related..
Any help will be much appriciate!
Absolute OFF-TOPIC
@Cheetah64d
SetLanguage.exe (by Lenovo Beijing Ltd.) you attached depends on libraries
Arab.dll, MultiLanDll.dll, ApicalDrvApi.dll, AppLoginDll.dll, MFC80U.dll and COREDLL.dll.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This executable is only useable on very specific devices.
As stated by MS, Windows CE by default uses the fonts as listet next to implement hebrew
Arial (subset 1_08) arial_1_08
Arial Bold (subset 1_08) arialbd_1_08
Courier New (subset 1_08) cour_1_08
Tahoma (subset 1_08) tahoma_1_08
Tahoma Bold (subset 1_08) tahomabd_1_08
Click to expand...
Click to collapse