decal

Decal is written entirely in C++, but exposes itself via COM and OLE Automation so developers using any language with COM support can develop on the Decal platform. Decal works by injecting itself into the memory space of the client software, and hooking drawing and network functions. This allows Decal to display it's own GUI in-game, and capture packets from the server.

Decal has a rich interface for development that includes a fully-functional graphical interface toolkit with a complete widget set, a powerful XML-based dynamic packet decoder, a stream-based media i/o system, and a huge measure of features that are out of the scope of this node. Not to mention the fact that it is also robust and well-written, thanks to the base of code contributed by the original author. It does have it's flaws, but those are mostly contributed by myself :).

Decal provides a framework for six extension types: Plugins, Network Filters, File Filters, Services, Surrogates, and Input Actions. Plugins are what most users care about, as they provide a graphical interface and real functionality to the user. Network Filters use Decal's packet capture mechanism to read certain kinds of packets and interpret them into data objects, events, or files. File Filters read the media archives (the ".dat" files) and interpret them, similar to the Network Filters. Services are generic extensions that provide access to common functionality. Surrogates extend Decal's native plugin capabilities and act as a proxy between non-native plugin types like backwards compatible (version 1) and Windows Scripting plugins. Finally, Input Actions automate certain functionality related to the mouse and keyboard input to the client.

Decal has literally transformed Asheron's Call. Despite the fact that Decal is constantly surrounded by controversy, the development team is very proud of the benevolent community it has created. Even with certain recent developments (the release of a few "cheating" plugins), we still believe most people use Decal for good, not evil.

Decals are sticker-like sheets of very thin, often transparent cellulose film with graphics printed on them used most often on scale models, but for other applications as well. They usually come on a cardboard backing, and must be soaked in water to be removed from the backing and then applied while still wet.

How to apply decals?

1. Wash the surface where you will be applying the decals with water and mild detergent. Be careful to touch the model surface as little as possible, as the oils on your skin will make it difficult for the decals to set properly.
2. Cut the decal sheet apart so each decal is on it's own.
3. Soak the decal (still on backing) you are going to apply in water for a few seconds.
4. Remove from water and then slide the decal off the backing, and apply with tweezers.
5. Allow the decal to dry onto the surface. Be careful not to touch it!

If your having trouble setting a particularly stubborn decal, you can use this (somewhat risky) method:

1. Remove the decal from the backing as usual.
2. Using a brush, apply a small amount of model cement (e.g. model glue) to the surface where you are applying the decal.
3. Very carefully position the decal where you want it, and blow it down with your breath.

The cement will melt the model surface and the decal, fusing them together, and so if you touch them after positioning (before it's dry) it will smear like paint - not pretty.

After the decals are applied and dried (which will take up to three days) you can then spray on a clear coat to protect them from scratching the peeling. Be careful that they're dried fully before you apply the clear coat, because otherwise the moisture in the decals will do not-so-nice things to your paintjob.

You can also make your own decals by buying special sheets of decal paper and printing them with your inkjet or laser printer (laser printers and copiers will probably do a better job).

Bonus Tip: To remove decals without messing up your paintjob, wet them with water and then apply some tacky masking tape to them to pull them off.