chalk tip #11: Fixed size annotations

Did you know?  In ImageScope, you can hold down the Ctrl key to create fixed-size annotations.  Select any annotation tool from the toolbar or with a function key (tip #8), then hold down the Ctrl key while clicking – a fixed-size annotation will be drawn.  Hold down the mouse to drag the annotation around and position it.  Try it!

You can specify the size of fixed size annotations by selecting Tools | Options | Annotations:

 

The Width and Height are used to determine the dimensions of rectangles and ovals, and the Length is used to determine the size of rulers and arrows.  You can specify the size using pixels or microns by clicking the corresponding button.  Whatever you enter will be remembered until you change it again.

Okay, so that’s cool, but guess what?  You can hold down the Ctrl key to specify fixed-size zoom rectangles (tip #9).  If you select the zoom tool (toolbar or Ctrl-Z) and then hold down the Ctrl key while clicking, the zoom area will be the same fixed size.

And here’s the coolest thing of all – you can hold down the Ctrl key to specify fixed-size image extract regions!  If you select the extract tool and hold down the Ctrl key while clicking, the image extract area will be the same fixed size.  Try it!