Installing OTS themes is quite simple. Two installation procedures have been provided: the first is for LiteStep users who choose not to use LSTS, and the second is for those that do. The procedures are identical except for the last step.
Please note that you must have a build of LiteStep installed on your computer in order to use an OTS theme - please see the following section for more information.
ATTENTION: A LiteStep installer that supports the Open Theme Standard is available!!
In order to use LiteStep themes that adhere to the Open Theme Standard, you will need:
[1] LiteStep
You should be using a recent build of LiteStep. You can grab a local copy of a recent LiteStep build that is in wide use, or get one from the following sites:
- shellfront.org/lsdev
- builds.lsdev.org
The builds come with documentation explaining how to install, configure, and use LiteStep. There are also online resources available:
- lsdocs.shellfront.org
- lsfaq.shellfront.org
And if you need a shell management utility to quickly switch shells, try shellon:
- www.dx13.co.uk
[2] personal config. files
If you don't already have one, make a subdirectory in your LiteStep directory called 'personal'. [So you'll end up with something like X:\LiteStep\personal.] Download personal_cfg.zip and extract it to the 'personal' folder you just created. The archive contains the following files:
- evars.rc
- hotkey.rc
- popup.rc
- personal.rc
Edit the paths in evars.rc according to your system. Hotkey.rc contains some common hotkey settings, you may edit them freely. Popup.rc is a generic popup menu configuration, you may edit it as you wish. There is no need to edit personal.rc, but you may cautiously do so if you are an advanced LiteStep user.
[3] shortcuts [.lnk files]
Create a subdirectory in your LiteStep directory called 'shortcuts'. [So you'll end up with something like X:\LiteStep\shortcuts.] Copy whatever shortcuts you like into this folder, from your Windows desktop, Start Menu, or Quicklaunch folders, etc. These shortcuts will not automatically be used by LiteStep, but there are a great number of themes that do use them, and this way you'll be prepared to use those themes.
[4] LiteStep Theme Selector
The use of LSTS is completely optional - OTS themes do not depend on LSTS in any way. What LSTS will do is enable you to quickly and conveniently switch LiteStep themes via a GUI or an entry in the popup menu. Those that wish to take advantage of this excellent utility may download it here:
- floach.pimpin.net/galois
After downloading LSTS, extract it into your LiteStep directory. To change themes, simply run LSTS and select a theme from the list. To quickly change themes via the popup menu, you will need to add the following to your personal popup.rc file:
*Popup "Change Theme" Folder
*Popup "LSTS" "$LiteStepDir$lsts.exe"
include $LitestepDir$themepopup.rc
*Popup ~Folder
[Note: If you use LSTS, X:\LiteStep\step.rc should be devoid of anything except what LSTS adds. For example, there should be no user-specified include statements or variables.]
[1] Install the theme
Unzip the theme archive to your LiteStep\themes directory with path information.
Open your file manager and navigate to the ...themes\theme-X directory.
[2] Read the documentation
Read the documentation provided by the theme author. It may contain specific instructions on installing skins, fonts, wallpaper, etc. And in any case, you should see what the theme author has to say. : )
[3] modules.ini
If a modules.ini file has been provided, copy it to your LiteStep directory.
Browse to the ...theme-X\config directory in your file manager.
[4] themevars.rc
If a themevars.rc file exists, edit it and ensure all environment variables have been set correctly.
Browse to the LiteStep directory in your file manager.
[5] step.rc
The step.rc file in your LiteStep directory should contain only one line:
include "$LitestepDir$themes\theme-X\step.rc"
Edit the include statement so that it points to the step.rc of the theme you wish to use. [E.g. if the theme directory is ...\themes\WharfX, the statement should be changed to: include "$LitestepDir$themes\WharfX\step.rc"]
Recycle LiteStep.
[1] Install the theme
Unzip the theme archive to your LiteStep\themes directory with path information.
Open your file manager and navigate to the ...themes\theme-X directory.
[2] Read the documentation
Read the documentation provided by the theme author. It may contain specific instructions on installing skins, fonts, wallpaper, etc. And in any case, you should see what the theme author has to say. : )
[3] modules.ini
If a modules.ini file has been provided, copy it to your LiteStep directory.
Browse to the ...theme-X\config directory in your file manager.
[4] themevars.rc
If a themevars.rc file exists, edit it and ensure all environment variables have been set correctly.
Browse to the LiteStep directory in your file manager.
[5] LSTS
Run LSTS and select the theme. [The $LiteStepDir$step.rc file should be devoid of anything except what LSTS adds. For example, there should be no user-specified include statements or variables.]
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