Support Forum

I am sorry you are experiencing this issue. The wording "current instance" got my attention. You probably just have to end the process in Windows Task Manager.
To do this:
1. Crtl + Alt + Del
2. select "start task manager"
3. click tab "processes"
4. select "FrontDesign.exe from the "image name" list
5. Click "end process"

You should be able to start Front Panel Designer. I hope this works. If not please attach a screenshot of the error message you will get.

Posted By: Diane Haensel on Apr 03, 2015 09:03PM

Hi,

I have the same problem on a Mac. I can't solve this by reinstalling. I had a similar problem with kicad which was solved by deleting a "lock" file. I must add that this was caused after an emergency shut down. (holding the power b***on on a macbook).

Best,

Zander

Attached File: Screenshot_2016-06-13_12.13.59.png

Posted By: Zander on Jun 13, 2016 12:14PM

Hello Zander,

You just need to delete the lock file which is located here:
~/Library/Application Support/FrontDesign/FrontDesign

This happens after an emergency shutdown and is normal on a Mac. Lots of other software programs have shown the same issues.

Kind regards,
Fabian

Posted By: Fabian on Jun 18, 2016 12:33AM

Of course, one-offs are our daily business. The pricing shows in Front Panel Designer. All you need to do is download the free software, design the part to your specifications and click on the pricing button in the tool bar.
Have a look at www.frontpanelexpress.com/front_panel_designer/the_idea/ and a couple of screenshots at www.frontpanelexpress.com/front_panel_designer/screenshots/

Posted By: Diane Haensel on Apr 02, 2015 01:10AM

Amen, that would be great!!!!!

Posted By: Glenn Cool Tech Controls on Mar 21, 2015 09:04PM

Agreed. I just designed my first panel and had to make squares of various sizes to try to measure things. A measuring tool would be a great help.

Posted By: Brian on Aug 26, 2015 07:31AM

Hello,

my apologies for getting back so late. I hope you didn't start remaking your macros. You can copy them easily from one computer to another.

The user macros are stored in the file UserMacros.fml and are saved under %APPDATA%\\FrontDesign\\UserMacros.fml

An example path for %APPDATA% can be:

C:\\Users\\John\\AppData\\FrontDesign

Kind regards,

Diane

Posted By: DianeHaensel on Dec 18, 2014 02:49AM

Found it!!

Thank you very much. Wish I had known this from a previous move to another machine.

Thank you much

RH

Posted By: REPH@home on Dec 23, 2014 02:22PM

Hello,

We can only offer material up to a thickness of 10mm.

However, side holes are possible. We would need an additional Front Panel Designer file for the side (in front view as you look on the side.) Please also make sure you have "customer provided material" checked and leave us a note in the remark box how to machine it related to the front of the panel.

I hope this makes sense. If not just call us and we walk you through the process.

Kind regards,

Diane

Posted By: DianeHaensel on Nov 19, 2014 12:36AM

Do the materials provided by customer also are limited to 10 mm thickness?

Best regards,

Nerijus

Posted By: nerarm on Nov 19, 2014 12:26PM

Hello Nerijus,

Unfortunately yes. The limitations come from the tool lengths. We are using micro tools with cutting edges of max 11mm.

Kind regards,

Diane

Posted By: DianeHaensel on Nov 19, 2014 07:48PM

hi,

what is the best way/method to clean an anodized surface from finger marks etc., thanks.

really wold appreciate some help, I need to ship some gear but don't want to scratch the anodized surface by cleaning it, thanks.

Posted By: MontanaWay on Nov 08, 2014 12:03AM

Hello,

We recommend cleaning anodized surfaces with a mild soap.

Here are more suggestions from Aluminum Anodizers Council

CLEANING ANODIZED ALUMINUM

Can anodized aluminum be cleaned with a detergent that has a pH of 10, or would that result in scaling or other surface problems?

Factors such as concentration of the detergent solution, duration of exposure, and temperature will influence the results. If the anodized aluminum is cleaned at room temperature and promptly rinsed with clean water, then there should be no problem. If cleaned at an elevated temperature or with prolonged exposure without rinsing, then the cleaning solution would start to attack the anodic oxide and etch the metal. Mild soap is generally preferable to detergent for routine maintenance cleaning.

How do I clean anodized aluminum?

Cleaning anodized aluminum is easy with the right technique. Because anodizing is so hard, you want to use an abrasive cleaning technique with a gentle soap. Do not use harsh acidic or alkaline cleaners because they may destroy the finish. Use solvents with care as they may stain the finish. Regardless of the technique, be sure to try a test area first. One recommended technique is to use an abrasive cleaning sponge with mild dish washing liquid. Always try a test small area first to prevent a widespread problem.

Kind regards,

Diane

Posted By: DianeHaensel on Nov 08, 2014 12:19AM