[IPSteven]

I'm using Delphi 2010 with the AlphaSkins 8.12 and one of my customers is having an issue with my apps that I can duplicate.

The following code is for my application fade on close.

Code:

for i := 150 downto 0 do begin
frmMain.AlphaBlendValue := i;
application.ProcessMessages;
end;

//prevent the app flashing on close especially when maximized
Left := -20000; //anyone else having this issue with AlphaSkins?

With Windows performance set to “Let Windows choose…”

• When I run application at 2940×969 (largest I can get it when stretched across my multi-monitor display) the fade is almost instantaneous (maybe ¼ second at the most, if I blink I miss the transition).

If I set the performance Option to ‘Adjust for best performance”

When exiting my app

• The fade takes over 12 seconds

Some quick testing shows that the fade behavior is not related to AlphaSkins but happens on all my other Delphi apps.

To say the least this behavior puzzles me.

I would think that the forms Alpha property was handled by the GPU and would therefore not be affected by Windows performance settings that should would be targeted at maximizing CPU performance.

So as far as the Alpha level changes

• I'm not sure if this is a Windows 7 bug, a Delphi bug (tested Delphi 2010 and Delphi Xe2) or just my lack of knowledge.
• As far as a fix

Is there a way to tell if Windows is running in crap graphics/max performance mode so that I can disable Alpha fade effects in my apps?

Appreciate any help

…Steven

[IPSteven]

A Windows Performance setting issue that is related to Alpha Skins is when Windows is set for maximum performance as mentioned in previous post

• When the app is minimized it takes 3+ seconds as it shrinks away looking like it was caught in a strobe light.

This minimizing strobe show only happens with AlphaSkins.

[Support]

Hello!

You tried a build-in AlphaSkins animation which may be activated in the sSkinManager.AnimEffects.FormHide property?

If you have test-apps and if you can give me them then I can use them for animation tests, I think 🙂

[IPSteven]

'Support' wrote:

Hello!

You tried a build-in AlphaSkins animation which may be activated in the sSkinManager.AnimEffects.FormHide property?

If you have test-apps and if you can give me them then I can use them for animation tests, I think 🙂

Thank you!

The sSkinManager.AnimEffects.FormHide property fixes the minimize issue.

I will follow up with another post with more information shortly. Been crazy busy.

…Steven

[Author]

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