Blog

  • What’s New in Version 0.40: Exploring Element Modes, New Design Features, and the Datetime Widget

    What’s New in Version 0.40: Exploring Element Modes, New Design Features, and the Datetime Widget

    Element modes

     NEW

    We have added the capability to create mods for elements (all of them!). This allows for significant alteration of both the appearance and actions of the element depending on dynamic data. This functionality extends to page lists as well: you can easily modify the structure of the list with just a few clicks.

    Mode creation dialog

    Mode creation dialog

    Media upload: support for .svg (color inheritance included) and .webp

     NEW

    We have implemented the ability to upload images in the webp format. Additionally, you now have the unique opportunity to upload images in the .svg format. It is important to understand that an SVG image containing ‘currentColor’ as a color indication will adopt the element’s color settings—this is particularly convenient for creating unique icons.

    Extended media upload box

    Extended media upload box

    We recommend to use this icons: Open Source Icon Sets – Iconify

    Use any .svg image as icon. Animated .svg also supported.

    Use any .svg image as icon. Animated .svg also supported.

    Granural Padding & Border Radius Control

     NEW

    It has become convenient to set different value for different sides. Feel free to utilize this feature!

    Padding per side

    Advanced border radius control

    Advanced border radius control

    Extended Background Size & Position

     NEW

    Now you have more control over the background at the page, project, and other supported element. You can now specify sizes and positions as well.

    Extended Background Size & Position

    Background Image for Containers

     NEW

    The ability to specify a background for the container is now available. Control for position, opacity, size, blur included!

    Containers with custom background Images

    Containers with custom background Images

    Border Radius for Containers

     NEW

    Utilize border radius directives for the container to enhance the appearance of your project.

    Container border radius

    Container border radius

    Text Wrap Behavior for Button & Text Elements

     NEW

    Working with long text has become more convenient. Later we will add convenient tools for automatic truncation of long text.

    Control over text wrap

    Control over text wrap

    Global Override Theme Design Settings

     NEW

    We have moved global project background settings into a separate category in the menu. Additionally, in this menu item you now have the option to specify custom settings for the main colors used. In the future we plan to significantly extend control over the appearance at a global level and allow users to create and share their own design/color themes.

    Override global theme color/background settings

    Override global theme color/background settings

    Blur Content behind Subpage or Container

     NEW

    At the container and subPage level, it is now possible to control the degree of blurring of elements/content beneath them. This is very convenient for highlighting, creating visually appealing effects and improving the readability of your interface.

    Background blur effect

    Background blur effect

    Containers are sortable again!

    NEW

    New Function Creation Modal

    NEW

    A new editor has been designed for creating functions. Writing and testing functions has become much more convenient. Additionally, integrated documentation with all available global data and variables for use will be added to this modal soon.

    New Function Creation Modal

    New Function Creation Modal

    New DateTime Widget

    NEW

    We have added a DateTime widget for convenient and fast visualization of the current time and date with detailed formatting options and the ability to specify time zones.

    DateTime widget

    DateTime widget

    Precache External Images

     NEW

    If your project extensively uses images from external sources you can now cache them in advance so that users will see them instantly when using your GUI.

    Add datasource with urls array should be precached

    Add datasource with urls array should be precached

    Image Lazy Load Option

    NEW

    Using this option will allow you to defer the immediate loading of heavy images and improve the user experience.

    Image lazy loading

    Image lazy loading

    Shades Control Widget Improved

     NEW

    Advanced settings and bug fixes have been implemented for the shades control widget. You can now configure the curtain style in more detail. Additionally, users can adjust the degree of opening and closing by directly dragging the curtain fabric.

  • Let’s meet in Las Vegas at Infocomm 2024! booth#C10130

    Let’s meet in Las Vegas at Infocomm 2024! booth#C10130

    We are thrilled to welcome both new and loyal customers to showcase our flagship offering – AVgator® Studio, a cutting-edge WYSIWYG user interface editor.

    Join us to discover the latest in user interface design and share in our newest innovations.

    Mark your calendars for June 12 to 14, and find us in the Central Hall. We can’t wait to connect with you and explore what the future holds together. See you there!

    Our booth number: C10130

    Click the registration link below and use our VIP code for a free exhibit hall pass: https://invt.io/1exbtnte7ar

    Then check it out here: https://avstudio.app

  • Exploring the Enhanced Features of Version 0.28: Dynamic Classnames, Environments, and More

    Added support for dynamic classnames

     NEW

    We have added the ability to assign dynamic CSS classes to any element on your page. This allows you to change the appearance of elements using not only built-in settings but also custom CSS styles.

    You can assign as many classes as you want separated by a space.

    Dynamic CSS classnames for any element

    Dynamic CSS classnames for any element

    Environments

     NEW

    We are pleased to introduce our new feature, Environments. Now, each project can have multiple environments, each storing specific settings that can be used in various scenarios. For example, different connection settings to the processor that you can use at your workplace as well as for final testing on the client’s hardware. It’s easy to switch between environments both during interface creation and when selecting them for building. When changing the active environment in the page editor, the live preview instantly applies all the current settings you have selected.

    Crestron processor auth token support

     NEW

    We have implemented support for authorization tokens for connecting to processors. This allows us to avoid redirects during authentication.

    Crestron processor auth token support

    Variables Side Effects

     NEW

    Now you have the ability to react to changes in variable values. In the event of a variable change, you can create as many actions as needed. This can include actions to send any type of signal, assign a variable, change a page, or anything else necessary to implement your scenario.

    Updated variables table

    Updated variables table

    Variables side effects form

    Variables side effects form

    Dynamic subpage inside overlay

     NEW

    Now, when opening the overlay you can specify the page that should appear in it dynamically. This allows us to implement various interface logic within a single element as part of an action.

    Call overlay by subpage name

    Call overlay by subpage name

    Video element updated: new options and HLS support

     NEW

    The video element has been significantly enhanced. It now includes extended settings for controlling the display of player interface elements as well as support for the new format: HLS.

    Updated video element

    Updated video element

    New action type: Run Function

     NEW

    We have introduced the ability to create an action that allows you to execute any JavaScript function you have previously created. This action can be applied to any element.

    Function runner

    Function runner

    Bugfix & Small improvements

     UPDATE   BUGFIX

    • Better behavior for text input element, slider, circle slider, toggle, checkbox, switch.
    • Fix Button element pressed state styles
    • Update fullscreen editors (html block, css)
    • Back routing doesn’t trigger action if actually no back page exist
    • Click on image allow open overlay
    • Better webxpanel initialization method, webxpanel updated to latest version
    • Fix bugs on touch click events
    • Fix bugs when sometimes overlay cannot be closed
    • Stop execute actions from list elements while it scrolling
    • Edit action form bug with representing wrong initial data
    • Click event may triggered twice on iOS – fixed
    • Fix project clone process
    • Improve page/subpage search
    • Improve subpage search whet setting up a route action
    • Live session isolation: one per login instance
    • Fixed unresponsive field while editing assigned dataset
    • Fixed: Color field doesn’t show current color value (text element for example)
    • Fixed: Dpad keep working when disabled
    • Fixed: Circle slider send wrong value when ends with zero and using fraction
    • Add project clone progress indicator
  • What’s New in Version 0.24: A Comprehensive Overview of the Latest Updates and Features

    New Element: Text Input

     NEW

    A new widget for controlling shades with rich appearance and display settings.

    Shades control

    Shades control

    HTML block element

     NEW

    A new element has been introduced allowing you to embed HTML code, including tags, styles, and scripts. For example, in about 30 seconds, you can insert a fully functional web widget for weather, and it will work seamlessly and display on your page.

    HTML block element

    More control over the management of pages and subpages

     NEW

    Fast filtering as well as mutual mapping of utilized pages and subpages, allows for quick orientation and navigating to edit relevant components, understanding their hierarchy.

    Pages & Subpages interface updated

    Pages & Subpages interface updated

    Extend dynamic support

     NEW

    We’ve introduced dynamic support for color settings across almost all elements. Additionally, the image source specification is now entirely dynamic—you can use both URLs and dynamically reference images previously loaded into the library, including the use of variables and/or a datasource.

    Video element

     NEW

    A video element has been added. Currently, it’s the most basic implementation; later, we’ll update the list of supported properties and display settings for this element.

    Video element

    Actions updates: OnChange, Page Actions, new properties

     NEW

    Actions for pages (and subpages) have been added, which can be triggered upon the loading or unloading of a page (subpage).

    For all types of events, you can now set a delay in the action execution.

    Actions updates: OnChange, Page Actions, new properties

    For elements that imply a change in the value of something (such as sliders, checkboxes, inputs, etc.), onChange actions are available. These actions allow you to trigger any events before or after the value changes, as well as directly manipulate the changing value.

    For elements that imply a change in the value of something (such as sliders, checkboxes, inputs, etc.), onChange actions are available

    For the digital type action, numerous new options have been added for working with the sent value: momentaries and toggles are now available. Additionally, for the Pulse value type you can configure the delay for value transitions.

    digital action

    Image as Icon

     NEW

    In all elements where there is an icon specification (for example, a button), you can attach not only an icon available in one of the preinstalled libraries but also use any image. Moreover, this image can be loaded either from the library or dynamically.

    Image as Icon

    Overlay: Any Click to Close

     NEW

    An important option has been added for overlay control: the ability to close the overlay by clicking anywhere on the screen. This is useful for implementing informational pop-ups that do not require user interaction.

    overlay any click to close

    CSS & Code Editors updates

     NEW

    We have reformatted the appearance and display settings for code editors used for writing CSS and HTML block code. You can relocate the code edit and also expand it to full screen.

    CSS & Code Editors updates

    Bugfix & Small improvements

     UPDATE BUGFIX

    • Fix touch actions in Crestron One
    • Added border support to many element
    • Fix bugs with value in multiply circle sliders on the page
    • More stable functions
    • Fix deep nested parameters values
    • Fix action info in sidebar, add ability to edit actions without need to recreate them
    • Create user profile page
    • Added background color for toggle widget
    • Change JSON viewer to the code editor
    • Added dynamic support to the page BG
    • Added filtering for the single element generation
    • Fix show Overlay when subpage is a trigger
    • Fix element selection in global container
    • Improved element reposition by drag
    • Added background blur option for overlay
    • Added text uppercase option
    • Added text color to button, text elements
    • Better image caching
    • …and many more
  • Version 0.21

    Version 0.21

    Ability to attach actions to Text, Image and Subpage elements

     NEW

    You can now associate various types of actions with new elements, such as subpages, images, and text. It’s important to note that any actions used within a subpage are executed independently.

    Ability to attach actions to Text, Image and Subpage elements

    New slider handle style options

     NEW

    • Hand border options including border radius
    • Hand background color
    New slider handle style options

    Pages & Subpages sorting

     NEW

    Pages & Subpages sorting

    Allow set signal value in action as dynamic value (json, variables, etc)

     NEW

    Project global joins

     NEW

    • Analog flip page signal

    Initiate a page flip from the processor using analog feedback. Remember to manually set the page flip ID for this operation.

    • Serial flip page signal

    Trigger a page flip using the page name as a reference.

    • Notification signal

    Inside your project settings, you have the option to define a serial signal name. When feedback is received from the processor, the text will be displayed as a notification using the specified signal name.

    • Refresh DataSources

    Activate a datasources update by using signal feedback.

    Project global joins

    Element extended visibility

     NEW

    • By orientation

    Element orientation visibility refers to the position of an element, such as text, an image, or any other component, and whether it’s currently visible within the current orientation.

    • By dynamic value (variable, parameter, json datasource)

    By utilizing dynamic values within your project, you can dynamically update whether elements are visible or not, all without the need for external processor interactions.

    Element extended visibility

    Added button height property

     NEW

    Added button height property

    Subpage optional default fixed size

     NEW

    You can enable the option to set a fixed width and height for a subpage.

    Subpage optional default fixed size

    Added Checkbox element

     NEW

    Added Checkbox element

    Added Toggle Switch widget

     NEW

    Added Toggle Switch widget

    Added Circle Slider widget

     NEW

    A highly customizable circular slider widget that can be employed for various purposes, including climate and sound controls, among others. It allows dynamic content configuration for all elements inside.

    Subpage parameters

     NEW

    Pass data from the parent element down to a nested subpage as input parameters and utilize this data within the subpage.

    Overlays

     NEW

    A new action type has been introduced, functioning as a trigger to display an overlay. The overlay can be any type of subpage containing various data, appearing on top of the page content. Numerous customization options are available, including:

    • Adjustable overlay placement on the page.
    • Customizable overlay mask styles and local mask design.
    • Automatic closure by timeout or clicking outside the overlay.

    Set icon dynamically

     NEW

    You can now set the icon name as a string, even when it’s sourced dynamically. To discover the full range of available icons, you can utilize the Icon Explorer feature, providing greater flexibility in choosing and displaying icons within your project.

    Dynamic image external source

    NEW

  • Creating GUIs with AVgator Studio (AVstudio) HTML5 WYSIWYG UI EDITOR

    Creating GUIs with AVgator Studio (AVstudio) HTML5 WYSIWYG UI EDITOR

    To create a user interface on HTML5 for a Crestron control system, you can use a software tool like AVstudio by AVgator® Inc, which is specifically designed for this purpose.

    Here are the basic steps to create a user interface using AVstudio:

    1. Launch AVstudio and create a new project.
    2. Configure the connection to your Crestron control system (e.g., IP address, WebSocket token).
    3. Add UI elements (buttons, sliders, video windows, etc.) to your layout.
    4. Assign join numbers or data bindings to connect interface elements to control system signals.
    5. Use preview mode to test interactions in real time.
    6. Customize layout using Fluid or Static page design approaches.
    7. Save and export your project for deployment.

    AVstudio supports various environments like Crestron One, Android App, PWA, and browsers, so you can create an interface that works across different platforms.

    Additionally, AVstudio provides a built-in smart console and live debugging with a real processor to help you troubleshoot any issues and optimize your interface.

    Dark Huddle HTML5 GUI for Crestron created in Avgator Studio

    AVstudio by AVgator® Inc is an online-based HTML5 editor for creating GUIs for control systems like Crestron. You can access it at the following address: AVgator® Studio 

    Once you log in, you can start creating your project and designing your user interface. If you have any questions or issues, you can also contact support team for assistance.

    Bright Conference Space HTML5 GUI for Crestron created in Avgator Studio

    Bright Conference Space HTML5 GUI

    The difficulty level of creating a GUI in AVstudio will depend on your previous experience with GUI design and HTML5 development. However, AVstudio is designed to be a user-friendly and intuitive tool that requires no coding skills, making it accessible for people who are new to GUI design.

    Riseup HTML5 GUI for Crestron created in Avgator Studio

    Riseup HTML5 GUI

    AVstudio provides a drag-and-drop interface that allows you to select and place various elements, widgets, and controls onto your GUI canvas. You can customize the design and layout of your GUI using a variety of built-in themes, styles, and colors. Additionally, the tool provides a library of pre-built components, including buttons, sliders, labels, and images, that you can use to add interactivity and functionality to your interface.

    Violet Huddle HTML5 GUI for Crestron created in Avgator Studio

    Violet Huddle HTML5 GUI

    If you do have coding skills, you can also add custom CSS and JavaScript to your project for even more flexibility and control.

    Bright Modern Nest HTML5 GUI for Crestron created in Avgator Studio

    Bright Modern Nest HTML5 GUI

    Overall, while there may be a bit of a learning curve to become proficient with the tool, AVstudio is designed to be intuitive and accessible for users with varying levels of GUI design experience.

    Versalles HTML5 GUI for Crestron created in Avgator Studio

    Versalles HTML5 GUI

  • Version 0.20 | Project variables

    Version 0.20 | Project variables

    Project variables

     NEW

    We have added local variables that can be used in your project. There are three types of variables: string, number, and boolean. The variables have default values and can be modified within the UI interaction, either without the involvement of the central processor or with its involvement taking on the value of signal feedback.

    As a result you can implement a significant part of internal logic without involving the processor.

    variable list

    Variable list

    variable form

    Variable form

    action to change variable

    Action to change variable

    Project Datasources

     NEW

    A new feature has been added that allows you to connect JSON data to the project, either through a remote link or locally. These data can be used in any way you prefer: as text labels, numeric values for styling elements, data for building lists of items and much more.

    Currently, after building, some of the logic with data sources may not work properly. However, in the upcoming updates, full support for data sources will be provided.

    Datasource list

    Datasource list

    Datasource Modal

    Datasource Modal

    Rich text datasource & Variables support

     NEW

    Rich text content can now contain more than just plain text and print output signals feedback. It also supports working with connected data sources and local variables.

    Rich text content can now contain more than just plain text and print output signals feedback

    New Element: Button List

     NEW

    We have started adding a new type of element – lists. The first one released is called ButtonList, which is a set of buttons that can be generated based on static data or using a data source attached to the element.

    Lists have a wide range of display settings for their child elements. These settings include specifying the scroll axis, the number of rows and columns, positioning within the container, and much more.

    Presets for elements

    NEW

    We have added presets for elements, which allow you to save the appearance and settings of an element and efficiently reuse it. Additionally, you can easily change the appearance of all buttons in the project that are linked to a preset with just a few clicks.

    Project elements presets listing
  • Version 0.18 | Media player Widget

    Media player Widget

     NEW

    Beautiful and flexible media player widget.

    Handle scroll automatically inside container of elements

     NEW

    Doesn’t matter how many elements you add to the container – it will always looks nice and all child scroll smooth and accessible from any type/size of screens.

    Updated Rich Text Editor and Feedback Printing

    NEW

    Extended Button Design options

    NEW

    Now support background color and rich border options, padding in size section.

    Now support background color and rich border options, padding in size section.

  • Version 0.17 | Building ch5z project is now possible

    Version 0.17 | Building ch5z project is now possible

    Building ch5z project is now possible

     NEW

    Now you can build your project in one click and do the following:

    1. Run it on your own web server
    2. Upload the project to a Crestron processor and use it as a web project or a Crestron One project
    3. Run on touch panel

    Widget: Clock

     NEW

    A label for the current device time can be printed, and it will be updated with the ability to set time zones and many more features.

    Element: Dpad

     NEW

    Nice, simple and customizable dpad element added

    Element: Keypad

     NEW

    Project and Page background

     NEW

    Now it’s easy to set a Background color and/or image globally to project and to current page.

    Options are: color, image (from library or external link), background image opacity, background image blur, background image mix blend mode value.

    CSS built in editor

     NEW

    Project cloning

     NEW

    Clone any project in one click.

    Project media library

     NEW

    View and control all of your project’s media assets in one place.

    View and control all of your project's media assets in one place.

  • Version 0.12

    Version 0.12

    Live project preview

     NEW

    With a live project preview, you can fully explore a project, including all its actions, page flips, and designed logic.

    With a live project preview, you can fully explore a project, including all its actions, page flips, and designed logic.

    If the correct connection configuration is provided, the preview will automatically connect to the processor, allowing you to experience the full functionality of the project.

    New Element: Subpage

     NEW

    Now you can achieve page encapsulation by inserting one page into another. This new feature makes the design process much more flexible and allows you to reuse layout parts, simplifying your work.

    New Element: Switch

    NEW

    New Element: Spacer

    NEW

    The Spacer feature enables you to add free space between elements.

    New Element: Slider

    NEW

    Experience an amazing level of customization and create stunning sliders, bars, and more.

    Experience an amazing level of customization and create stunning sliders, bars, and more.

    Additionally, sliders have a feature called ‘Dynamic Background’ that can change the page background when the slider’s value is adjusted.

    6,000+ new icons

    UPDATE

    All icons are licensed for personal and commercial use.

    Better size control

    UPDATE

    Almost all element parts can now be controlled, including text size, icon size, and more.

    Predefined routes

     UPDATE

    We have added static routes in page flip actions, which include the ability to go back to the start page and return to the previous page – Go Back.

    We have added static routes in page flip actions, which include the ability to go back to the start page and return to the previous page - Go Back.

    Interactive elements preview behavior

     NEW

    We have updated the interactive elements (such as switches and text inputs) so that they now work in the preview mode. This means that you can put text into these elements and see the visual feedback, even if the processor is not connected.

    Editor context menu

     NEW

    In editor mode, you can create, delete, or clone elements by using the context menu.

    Gap property

     NEW

    Containers (and certain elements) now support the gap property, allowing for easy control of the space between content parts.

    Border property

     NEW

    We have added the ability to add borders with custom colors and types to certain elements and containers.

    Preview mode

     UPDATE

    In preview mode, the sidebars with options are faded to draw more focus to the page content.