Issue 51 * June 20, 2008

Sneak Peek at the Next Revolution
New script editor, keener graphics make debut in “Bernard”

by Bill Marriott

With the success of Revolution 2.8.1 and 2.9, the expanded Runtime engineering team has made quick progress on a brand new version of Revolution – code-named "Bernard" – that introduces several new features users will find tremendously helpful.

Revolution Enterprise customers have already been treated to early preview editions of the software, which is expected to be released in about three months. Other Revolution customers are now invited to apply to beta test this release starting today. See this article for more information.

The focus of "Bernard" is ease of use and more professional visuals. To that end, here's a roundup of new features:

New Script Editor and Debugger
Revolution users spend a lot of time in the Script Editor. So Bernard introduces new integrated features that make it easier to work with script, including improved undo, integrated panels for compile errors, documentation, variables, and search results. The new script editor also integrates a fresh debugging panel that is more powerful and easier to use than before.

New Script Editor with Integrated Debugger

Fresh Branding and Icons
Revolution will receive new splash screens and other visual elements consistent with the new look-and-feel of our recently remodeled web site.

Better for Beginners and Experts Alike
In addition to integrating documentation more fully in the Script Editor, there is a new "Start Center" when launching Revolution. Plus, later beta editions will unveil an overhaul to the Dictionary and a new Resource Center that makes tutorials and samples more easily discovered.

Smoother Graphics
Vector objects get some delightful new features in Bernard, most notably a wide choice of gradient fill types that are highly customizable through the Property Inspector and scripts, plus the ability to resize polygon objects interactively. For imported bitmaps, improved quality rotation is available, whether you are just setting the angle of an image or using the rotate command to modify the contents of it.

Polygon graphic with gradient fill, edit handles showing

Multi-Dimensional Arrays and More
Finally, Bernard addresses an oft-requested ability for arrays to have multiple dimensions. In current versions arrays are blisteringly fast but are limited to only a single dimension. The new version will allow for arbitrary dimensions, to handle an even wider range of challenges with more flexibility. Of course there will be additional bug fixes and other enhancements coming out with this version.

"Bernard will make working with Revolution more pleasant than ever for a broad range of users," CEO Kevin Miller said. "Our goal with the script editor is to tidy up the IDE and make more efficient use of screen real estate. The work we're doing on vector graphics and images will enable users to create more modern-looking solutions. And I know many of our users who already have designs on the new array capabilities."

Your Opportunity to Contribute
We'd like to know how you like the changes, and there's still time to make an impact. What do you think of the new Script Editor? What are your thoughts on the new icons and names? Read about the new beta test program, and sign up today.

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