			PZapGUI Readme

	
	*****Introduction*****


For the latest version of PZapGUI/PIxelZap, check: http://tawba.tripod.com/pixelzap.htm

PZapGUI (and PixelZap) is a tool to remove noise and “hot pixels” from digital images, in particular those taken with digital cameras.  Most current digital camera images show considerable “noise” when taken with a long exposure (i.e. more than one or two seconds).  Some cameras show "hot pixels" even when taking short exposures.  PZapGUI/PixelZap can be used to remove this noise with minimal impact to the underlying image.  PixelZap includes a unique 'lossless save' feature to correct the a noisy JPEG file without adversely impacting the quality of the underlying image.


Note: PixelZap is a DOS program that can be run from the command line without PZapGUI.  PZapGUI is a "Graphical User Interface" for PixelZap, but cannot be run without PixelZap.



	*****Installation Instructions*****

After unzipping the "zip" file, use the setup.exe program to install PZapGUI/PixelZap.

IMPORTANT: PZapGUI was written using Visual Basic 6 and requires some "helper" (a.k.a. "Runtime") files in order to work properly.  These helper files are freely available, and your system may already have them.  However, If you are unsure or you cannot seem to run PZapGUI without an error, download them from the link on Thumber's page (http://tawba.tripod.com/vb6tawba.htm).


	*****Program Status*****

PZapGUI/PixelZap is shareware, meaning you are expected to "register" it (i.e. pay a small fee for it) to purchase the program. While PZapGUI/PIxelZap will operate without registration, it is limited to processing images with a maximum size of 640x480 pixels.  You can register PZapGUI/PixelZap on-line using the Kagi payment processing service:

	http://order.kagi.com/?R8U


	*****Distribution Status*****

You may freely redistribute PZapGUI/PixelZap as long as you make no modifications and this file is included.


	*****Troubleshooting Tips*****


If you get an error when trying to start PzapGUI, you may not have the latest Visual Basic files.  You can get the Visual Basic runtime files here: http://tawba.tripod.com/vb6tawba.htm.  


	*****Credits*****

PixelZap utilitzes source code provided by the Independent JPEG Group.  In exchange for the use of this code, I am required to state that "this software is based in part on the work of the Independent JPEG Group".


	*****Disclaimer*****

Your use of this software constitutes your agreement to the following terms: 

TawbaWare (http://tawba.tripod.com/) and the author take no responsibility for any damages caused by this program.  PzapGUI/pixelZap are provided 'as is' without warranty of any kind.  Use them at your own risk.  I disclaim all warranties, either express or implied, including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall I be liable for any damages whatsoever including direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, loss of business profits or special damages.  

Whew!  Use at your own risk and enjoy!

Max Lyons
tawbaware@kagi.com
