Q:		Why doesn't SI3 start up properly?
A:		When SI3 starts up, it does so with the last settings entered. If the last settings were incorrect, start SI3 while holding the Shift key so that it is forced to start with default parameters.
Q:		Will SI3 work in a PC with a 486DX4 CPU?
A:		It will, but the processing speed will be very slow. In these systems, install as much RAM as possible to maximize speed. A 486DX2 will also work, but the processing speed will be even further degraded.
Q:		How much memory do I need to process my images?
A:		The memory required depends on the size of the image in pixels and the type of image (monochrome or color) according to the calculation: Bytes = HPixels x VPixels x 8 x Color where Color = 1 for monochrome, 3 for color This formula gives the size of the memory buffer required, including the UNDO buffer. This buffer can be accomodated in a combination of physical memory (RAM) and virtual memory (on hard disk), but performance is best if it is entirely in RAM. Allocation of RAM may be customized using the Preferences menu in StellaImage. However, for the default allocation set by StellaImage, the image sizes which can be accomodated in RAM are plotted in a graph of Image size vs. system memory.
Q:		When using [RGB Combine...] should I adjust levels before or after combining images?
A:		It doesn't matter when you do it. You can achieve the same results either way.
Q:		When SBIG files are opened, why does the image appear all white or all black?
A:		Some SBIG-formatted files include individual level values. If incorrect values have been saved, the image appears totally white or black. But SI3 reads all data saved in the file, so by simply readjusting the levels, the image will become visible. If the adjusted file is saved again in SBIG format, it will be correctly opened the next time.
Q:		When some FITS files are opened, why is the brightest part disappearing?
A:		FITS files are normally saved with signed data. But some FITS files are saved with unsigned data. To read unsigned FITS files, use the [File][Import][unsigned FITS...] function.
Q:		When a FITS file is opened, why is the image upside down?
A:		The FITS standard recommends the file data start from the lower left of the image frame. But most astronomical CCD camera applications save starting from the upper left. If you want StellaImage to change its default behavior (which is to conform to the FITS standard), check the box "Process FITS Data From Bottom" in the [File][Preferences...] menu. If the image has already been opened upside down, use the [Image][Flip Vertical] function.
Q:		Why is an application error occuring when the [Curves] dialog is opened?
A:		This is caused by an obsolete system file from Windows 95. By installing MS Internet Explorer 3.0 or later, this Windows system file is updated and the problem will be cured.
Q:		How do I use the [Adjust][Apply Levels] function?
A:		[Adjust][Apply Levels] sets the level thresholds based on parameters you previously set. If default values are used, some images may not be adjusted correctly. In that case, change the parameters using [Adjust][Auto Levels Setup].