As you first become familiar with the software, you'll notice that there are many options for how the software operates. Some of these options can be set as Defaults, some are set in the Options dialog box, some are Switches, and still others are what we call "sticky" settings, meaning that the previous setting will be used next time.
Units of Measure
Perhaps the most basic setting is the Units of Measure. The software defaults to Imperial units of measure that are used in the US, namely inches and feet. If you want to use Metric units of measure, either mm or cm, please go to the Options dialog box in the Tools Menu and select Millimeters or Centimeters from the list.
Layout Size
When you start a new layout, the Default Layout Size is used, which you can see here.
'
If you want to change the height or width, just enter the new values and then click on the Default Layout Size button to save for next time.
Show Colors vs. Wireframe
Another critical option is whether you have Show Colors on, in which case an object's fill color is shown, or off, in which case you are in wireframe mode, where the Loop Directions are shown.
You will actually turn colors on and off frequently in the software, so it would be a good idea to remember the Shortcut Key for Show Colors: F3.
View Options
There are many options in the View Menu for what is shown or not shown in the software, such as Rulers, Loop Directions, Guidelines, Grid, and others.
Show Options
There are additional functions in the Options Menu for showing or not showing elements of LED layouts, such as Show Connecting Wires, Show Letters and Stats, Show Vector Guidepaths, among others.
Options dialog box
The Options dialog box has several tabs that include different options and settings that can view and edit. These tabs are General, View, Edit, Save, Text, LED, Tools, Directories, Keyboard, and High Color Toolbox. Be careful about these settings, and if you want to make changes, do so one at a time so can be sure of the results.
Switches
Finally, there are the Switches, which are basically settings that are either on or off. Each Switch has a check box, and the defaults will be set when you first launch the software. As with the Options dialog box, be careful with these, but know that they can change the software's behavior more to your liking.
As you use the software, you will come to decisions on these kinds of defaults and preferences. There are many ways to customize how the software looks and operates, but it is a good idea to become familiar with it first before you start making these kinds of adjustments.