[comp.sys.mac.system] Launching DAs into application layer under Sys 7

John_Miller@mindlink.bc.ca (John Miller) (06/22/91)

In article <1991Jun20.232314.4961@m.cs.uiuc.edu>, Don Gillies
writes
> There is one irritating thing about the new DA scheme in system 7.0.
> You can no longer open a DA within the application heap. > Frequently, I run
my FOP postscript interpreter, which requires me
> to operate the chooser to switch between the laserwriter and
> deskwriter printer driver.  FOP, the FOP spooler, System 7.0,
> and MS-Word, take all 5Mb of my memory.

A couple of people have already pointed out that you can install
DAs in an application's resource fork, but if you want the DA
available in all applications, you can install it in the System
file.  If the desk accessory is stored in the System file, holding down the
option key will launch the DA into the
application.

Installation is simple:  launch the Font/DA Mover (Version 4.1
works) by double-clicking on the program icon. Then use the
option key while clicking in the Open button for the other side
to open the Chooser "DApplication" file and then copy it over
to the System file.

(It's kinda strange:  when you launch the Font/DA mover, it will
automatically open the current System file, but it won't let
you open the System via the Open button.)

Two caveats.  This option-key support from the System file sounds
like the type of transitional support that might disappear in
system software version, oh, 7.38.  Also, you'll probably have to
redo this each time you install a new system release.

_________________________________________________________________
John Miller                    (604) 433-1795
Symplex Systems                usenet:  john_miller@mindlink.uucp

Macintosh Consulting and Software Development
_________________________________________________________________