Segment Configuration
Segment Configuration divides the separator into distinct segments with customizable spacing and optional numeric labels.
Overview
This table summarizes the key properties and settings available under Segment Configuration:
Segments
Sets the number of distinct segments in the separator.
1
Must be at least 1
Segment Spacing
Defines the space (in pixels) between each segment.
10
Must be 0 or greater
Show Segment Numbers
Toggles the display of numeric labels for each segment.
false
true/false
Segment Number Font
Specifies the font used for rendering segment numbers.
new Font("Arial", 8)
Any valid System.Drawing.Font instance
Segment Number Color
Sets the color of the segment numbers to ensure readability.
Color.Black
Any valid System.Drawing.Color instance
Detailed Property Overview
Segments
int
1
Sets the number of distinct segments in the separator. Must be at least 1.
Segment Spacing
int
10
Defines the space (in pixels) between each segment. Must be 0 or greater.
Show Segment Numbers
bool
false
When enabled, displays numeric labels for each segment for easier reference.
Segment Number Font
Font
new Font("Arial", 8)
Specifies the font used to render segment numbers.
Segment Number Color
Color
Color.Black
Sets the color of the segment numbers, ensuring they are readable and match the design scheme.
Key Points
Customization Scope
Developers can configure the number of segments, spacing, and labeling to suit the UI needs.
Minimum Values
Properties such as Segments and Segment Spacing have minimum values to ensure proper rendering.
Visual Reference
Enabling segment numbers provides a clear visual cue for users, aiding in measurement or identification.
Best Practices
Validate Input Values
Ensure that the values for Segments and Segment Spacing are within acceptable limits.
Consistent Typography
Use a font and color for segment numbers that is consistent with the rest of your application’s design.
Optimize for Readability
When enabling segment numbers, choose a size and color that maintain legibility against the background.
Common Pitfalls
Setting an Invalid Number of Segments
Ensure that the Segments property is always set to a value of 1 or more to prevent rendering errors.
Overlapping Elements
When using multiple segments and parallel lines, confirm that the spacing is adequate to avoid visual clutter.
Inconsistent Label Styling
Ensure the SegmentNumberFont and SegmentNumberColor are updated together to maintain a consistent look.
Usage Scenarios
Basic Visual Separator
A simple horizontal separator divided into equal segments with default spacing.
csharp<br>// Create the control with default segment configuration<br>SiticoneHSeparator separator = new SiticoneHSeparator();<br>separator.Segments = 3;<br>separator.SegmentSpacing = 10;<br>this.Controls.Add(separator);<br>
Labeled Segments
A separator where each segment is numerically labeled to act as a visual reference or guide.
csharp<br>// Initialize a separator with segment numbers<br>SiticoneHSeparator separator = new SiticoneHSeparator();<br>separator.Segments = 4;<br>separator.ShowSegmentNumbers = true;<br>separator.SegmentNumberFont = new Font("Calibri", 10, FontStyle.Bold);<br>separator.SegmentNumberColor = Color.Blue;<br>this.Controls.Add(separator);<br>
Custom Spacing
Separators with non-standard spacing to create a unique visual rhythm.
csharp<br>// Create a separator with custom segment spacing<br>SiticoneHSeparator separator = new SiticoneHSeparator();<br>separator.Segments = 5;<br>separator.SegmentSpacing = 20;<br>this.Controls.Add(separator);<br>
Real Life Usage Scenarios
Dashboard Dividers
Use segment configuration in dashboards to separate data segments or metrics visually.
Step-by-Step Process Indicators
In a wizard or setup process, segment the separator to indicate different steps with numeric labels.
Measurement Tools
In applications that simulate measurement tools or rulers, utilize segment numbers to provide clear numeric cues.
Troubleshooting Tips
Segment Numbers Not Displaying
Verify that ShowSegmentNumbers is set to true and that the SegmentNumberFont and SegmentNumberColor are properly configured.
Segments Rendered Incorrectly
Ensure that the Segments value is greater than or equal to 1 and that SegmentSpacing is not set to a negative value.
Overlapping Elements or Cluttered Layout
Adjust SegmentSpacing and consider the overall size of the control to avoid overlapping with other UI elements.
Integration Example
Below is a comprehensive code example demonstrating how to integrate and customize the Segment Configuration feature in a .NET WinForms application:
using System;
using System.Drawing;
using System.Windows.Forms;
using SiticoneNetFrameworkUI;
namespace SegmentConfigurationDemo
{
public class MainForm : Form
{
public MainForm()
{
// Set up the form
this.Text = "Segment Configuration Demo";
this.Size = new Size(400, 200);
// Initialize the SiticoneHSeparator control
SiticoneHSeparator separator = new SiticoneHSeparator
{
// Configure segment properties
Segments = 4,
SegmentSpacing = 15,
ShowSegmentNumbers = true,
SegmentNumberFont = new Font("Verdana", 9, FontStyle.Italic),
SegmentNumberColor = Color.DarkGreen,
// Optional: Set control location and size
Location = new Point(20, 50),
Size = new Size(350, 60)
};
// Add the control to the form
this.Controls.Add(separator);
}
[STAThread]
public static void Main()
{
Application.EnableVisualStyles();
Application.Run(new MainForm());
}
}
}Review
Flexibility
The Segment Configuration provides extensive flexibility for creating segmented visual elements.
Ease of Integration
Clear properties and code examples make integration into WinForms applications straightforward.
Visual Consistency
Customizable spacing and typography ensure that the control can be seamlessly integrated into various UI designs.
Summary
The Segment Configuration feature in the SiticoneHSeparator control is designed for developers seeking customizable, segmented horizontal separators. With properties to adjust the number of segments, spacing, and numeric labeling (including font and color customization), it offers a versatile and visually appealing way to divide UI elements. Following the best practices and usage scenarios provided will help ensure a smooth and efficient implementation in your .NET WinForms application.
Additional Tips
Explore Combined Features
Consider using Segment Configuration alongside other features (Line Multiplication and Visual Styling) for a cohesive design.
Optimize Redraws
Set multiple properties at once when possible to minimize unnecessary control redraws.
This comprehensive documentation should assist developers in understanding, integrating, and effectively using the Segment Configuration feature within their applications.
Last updated