advr.hlp (Topic list)
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DESKTOP_PATTERN Constant Details
  Summary  Details  Example                Contents  Index  Back
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 SCREEN.ControlPanel({DESKTOP_PATTERN | subscript%})[ = pattern%]
 
 Usage Notes
   ■ If pattern% is set to 0 (the null character), the current screen image
     will be saved and used as the background image when forms are showing.
     For example, when forms are visible setting DESKTOP_PATTERN to 0 will
     save the current state (including forms) as the background image. Once
     this image has been saved, the screen can be cleared or changed and the
     saved background remains persistent.
 
   ■ When pattern% is changed from 0 to any other value, the saved image is
     cleared from memory.
 
   ■ When all forms are hidden or unloaded, the persistent background image
     (if any) is not automatically cleared. However, subsequent graphic or
     other output statements will overwrite it.
     See: HIDE Method  UNLOAD Statement
 
   ■ To change the screen image once stored in memory:
     • Clear the screen (using CLS)
     • Redraw the image
     • Set DESKTOP_PATTERN = 0
 
   ■ Switching line modes (25 to 43, or vice versa) after saving an image
     will accordingly either pad or truncate the image buffer with null
     characters.