What is an MMSSTV template?
A template is a simple graphic layer that MMSSTV can superimpose over the TX image. Templates are especially useful for information that changes from QSO to QSO, such as the other station's callsign, signal report or contest number.
Template tools
The original MMSSTV documentation lists the following template tools:
Arrow
Select and move template items.
Line
Draw a line.
Square
Draw a rectangle.
Filled square
Draw a filled rectangle.
T
Add text or macro text.
Picture
Insert a picture or history image.
Colour bar
Add a colour bar.
Scissors / Paste
Cut and paste template items.
Palette
Change colours.
Font
Change the font of text objects.
Using macros
MMSSTV templates can insert information from the logging system
automatically. The original documentation gives the example of using
the %c macro to place the other station's callsign in a
template.
- Select the T text tool.
- Click where the text should appear.
- Open the Macro selection.
- Select the desired macro.
Superimposing a template
MMSSTV overlays the template on the TX image while treating one colour as transparent. Historically, the transparent point was associated with the bottom-right area of the template window, although later versions could automatically move the transparent point when necessary.
Stocked pictures and templates
MMSSTV has a stock area capable of storing up to 300 images. A stocked image can carry both picture data and associated template information.
When Show superimposed templates is enabled, dragging a stocked picture into the TX window also copies its associated template. When disabled, picture and template are handled separately.
Picture size and the 16-line header
Robot and AVT modes normally use 240 scan lines, while Scottie and Martin modes use 256. MMSSTV can use the extra 16 lines as a header area for information created with template items.
The original documentation describes different shift and adjustment options depending on whether the source picture and selected SSTV mode use 240 or 256 lines.