FSX Where do I Put the Google Server Tiles?

[kmanning]

Hi Gary,
Where exactly do I place all the files for updated Google Tiles?

Do I place all of the folders separately or do I keep them all together?

Do I need to keep all the files in their perspective folders?

Ken.

 

[GaryGB]

Hi Ken:

That should be explained by these threads:

[EDITED]

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/new-googleserver-dll.19913/page-2#post-774702

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/sbuilderx-background-not-showing-up.440471/#post-775915

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/use-water-elevation-from-dem.440698/#post-778010

[END_EDIT]

Simply place the tile server DLLs into the specified SBuilderX sub-folder as discussed in the above threads.

Folders will be created by the DLL to contain any and all tiles downloaded; do NOT touch these directly for any reason.


Instead, when use of downloaded tiles in a 1-piece 'composite' image is needed, use the process in this thread:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/use-water-elevation-from-dem.440698/#post-777963



BTW: For info on work-arounds for the Sketchup 'geolocate' issues with aerial imagery, see:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/updated-sketchup-wont-work.440430/#post-777782


Hope this helps !

GaryGB

 

[pinkjr]

Gary, just saw that there is a new google access api.........has anyone figured out how to manually add it to Sketchup? LOL....badly need it!

David

 

[GaryGB]

Hi David:

Rhumbaflappy has previously shown that he also has skills with the Ruby scripting language by releasing a very helpful Sketchup plugin Ruby script: "center_group_bottom"

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/centering-objects.71321/


Perhaps he might be receptive to creating a plugin Ruby script that replaces- or automates the above linked work-arounds for- ...the default Sketchup geo-location feature ?

GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

Hi Ken:

That should be explained by this thread:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/use-water-elevation-from-dem.440698/#post-778010


Simply place the tile server DLLs into the specified SBuilderX sub-folder as discussed in the thread,

Folders will be created by the DLL to contain any and all tiles downloaded; do NOT touch these directly for any reason.


Instead, when use of downloaded tiles in a 1-piece 'composite' image is needed, use the process in this thread:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/use-water-elevation-from-dem.440698/#post-777963



BTW: For info on work-arounds for the Sketchup geolocation issues with aerial imagery, see:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/updated-sketchup-wont-work.440430/#post-777782


Hope this helps !

GaryGB

Gary,

The link you posted still has not explained to me how and where precisely to put these files. First of all, you started off with this:

After installing the (1 and only 1) "GoogleServer_api3.dll " to:
[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location, one should see (4) new "Google_api3_*" choices available to select via:

I don't see this file anywhere in the download nor in the program after it's installed. And what is this api3.dll you refer to, and how is it different form the regular GoogleServer.dll, and where do I get it? All of this has confused me more. I went to the website where the SbuilderX is downloaded from and have not seen a file name Google_ape3.dll. The manual that comes with the SbuilderX does not explain how or where these files go. It is too general on many of the topics it covers. When I downloaded the zipped GoogleServer tile, which is version 722, it has 3 folders, each one with files:

GoogleServer_722
SBuilderX_x64
SBuilderX_x86

The x64 and x86 have the same file name, which is GoogleServer.dll. I assume one is for the 32 bit system and the other is for the 64 bit system, so if that's the case, I don't think I need both. If I'm correct, which one is for the 32 and the 64 bit? The GoogleServer_722 has 8 files. What I'm confused about is that do I keep these files in there perspective folders and place the folders in the C:\SbuilderX\Tiles folder or do I place only all of the files in each folder in the C:\SbuilderX\Tiles? It seems to me that these downloads would include a readme text explaining, in detail, where to place each of these files.

 

[GaryGB]

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/where-do-i-put-the-google-server-tiles.440855/#post-779468

Gary,

The link you posted still has not explained to me how and where precisely to put these files. First of all, you started off with this:

After installing the (1 and only 1) "GoogleServer_api3.dll " to:
[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location, one should see (4) new "Google_api3_*" choices available to select via:

I don't see this file anywhere in the download nor in the program after it's installed. And what is this api3.dll you refer to, and how is it different form the regular GoogleServer.dll, and where do I get it? All of this has confused me more. I went to the website where the SbuilderX is downloaded from and have not seen a file name Google_ape3.dll. The manual that comes with the SbuilderX does not explain how or where these files go. It is too general on many of the topics it covers. When I downloaded the zipped GoogleServer tile, which is version 722, it has 3 folders, each one with files:

GoogleServer_722
SBuilderX_x64
SBuilderX_x86

The x64 and x86 have the same file name, which is GoogleServer.dll. I assume one is for the 32 bit system and the other is for the 64 bit system, so if that's the case, I don't think I need both. If I'm correct, which one is for the 32 and the 64 bit? The GoogleServer_722 has 8 files. What I'm confused about is that do I keep these files in there perspective folders and place the folders in the C:\SbuilderX\Tiles folder or do I place only all of the files in each folder in the C:\SbuilderX\Tiles? It seems to me that these downloads would include a readme text explaining, in detail, where to place each of these files.

Hi Ken:

Download GoogleServer_api3.zip from:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/new-googleserver-dll.19913/page-2#post-774702


...or from:

http://www.ptsim.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=1053&start=150
https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=0B0QpXWuJbh-bMkJjbldlVDdZdTg

NOTE: This is a different tile server downloader DLL than the GoogleServer_722.zip cited in your post.


Extract GoogleServer_api3.zip into a folder, preserving the relative folder chain structure:


GoogleServer_api3.zip ...contains the following sub-folders:

\GoogleServer_api3 (contains source code; not to be installed into SBuilderX at this time)


\SBuilderX_x64\GoogleServer_api3.dll <-- used only in SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit)

Put this file into: [SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location



\SBuilderX_x86\GoogleServer_api3.dll <-- used only in SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit)

Put this file into: [SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit) install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location


CAVEAT: (For Windows-7 users)

If SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) is installed, there's no need to install SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit), so you only need to install \SBuilderX_x64\GoogleServer_api3.dll <-- used only in SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit)

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/use-water-elevation-from-dem.440698/#post-778010

After installing the (1 and only 1) "GoogleServer_api3.dll " to:

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location, one should see (4) new "Google_api3_*" choices available to select via:


SBuilderX Menu > Edit > Preferences > {Background Tab} > Available Tile Servers


After tile server selection, 'check' "Use {Tile Server Name} ?" checkbox ...to 'apply' named tile server choice

Next, click [INI File] button to set central coordinates / BGL output path for your project location < file opens in Windows NotePad >

[Main]
LonIniCenter=-9.136076 <-- Your own project's central Longitude goes here
LatIniCenter= 38.7813203 <-- Your own project's central Latitude goes here
DecimalDegrees=True
MeasuringMeters=True
BGLFolder=C:\MyPrograms\SBuilderX314\Scenery <-- Your own project's compiled BGL 'active' \Scenery folder path goes here
OriginalTerrainCFG=False


1.) When configuration of your SBuilderX project is completed via editing "SBuilder.ini" in Windows NotePad:

.....a.) In Windows NotePad Menu > File > Save As... > "Save as type" field, set to "All Files (*.*)" (do not click OK yet)

.....b.) In NotePad Menu > File > Save As... > "Save In" field, browse to [SBuilderX install path] folder; double-click to select it


2.) Back in NotePad Menu > File > Save As... browse dialog, click "OK"

.....a.) When prompted to over-write Sbuilder.ini, click "YES" to save your edits to that file.


3.) Exit and re-start SBuilderX (...or the above changes will not yet take effect)


FYI: When "GoogleServer_api3.dll " tile down-loader runs, it writes tiles for 'layer' types into their own named sub-folder chains:

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_NoRoads\

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_Satellite\

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_BasicMap\

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_Water\

Hope this helps !

GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

Thanks Gary,

I had version 3.13 of the SbuilderX and tried to update it to version3.14. But here we go again running into more and more issues. Now, I've receiving error updates. There's a thread titled "SbuilderX Error on update" that was posted on June 24, 2014 by a guy named Joe, I believe it was. But there's nothing in that thread that explains what's happening, the reason for the error messages, and the fix. When I installed the update, I followed that readme text that came with the SBX314.zip to the tee. What I don't understand is why the author suggests that SBuilderX313 be running in order to install the update. When it's running, as was suggested in the text, the files would not install. So I closed it and all the files installed. Now here are the error messages I get:

"Could not load file assembly 'TileServer, Version=1.0.0.0, Culture=neutral, PublicToken=null' or one of its dependencies. This assimbly is built by a runtime newer than the currenly loaded runtime and cannot be loaded.
This was an unexpected error that can lead to unpreditable results. If you press NO SBuilder will shut down. If you press YES you can continue to work at your own risk. Do you want to continue?"

When I click NO, then I get this error message:

"Arithmetic operation resulted in an overflow.
This was an unexpected error that can lead to unpreditable results. If you press NO SBuilder will shut down. If you press YES you can continue to work at your own risk. Do you want to continue?"

If I click YES, SBuilder just closes anyway. So, what is going on with this?


By the way, when I place the GoogleServer_api3.dll file, do I need to delete the old GoogleServer.dll file or any other files?

Also, you said in the previous post: "If SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) is installed, there's no need to install SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit." Yes, I agree, but in order to update to version 3.14, version 3.13 must be installed, according to the text, unless there's a full version of 3.14, but I haven't seen a full version.

Ken.

 

[GaryGB]

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/where-do-i-put-the-google-server-tiles.440855/#post-779512

Thanks Gary,

I had version 3.13 of the SbuilderX and tried to update it to version3.14.

Install the "full" version of SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) as described below.

By the way, when I place the GoogleServer_api3.dll file, do I need to delete the old GoogleServer.dll file or any other files?

No; the original GoogleServer.dll (aka "Google Satellie) can continue to be used, but is largely redundant now considering all that is made available by the new GoogleServer_api3.dll file.

Also, you said in the previous post: "If SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) is installed, there's no need to install SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit." Yes, I agree, but in order to update to version 3.14, version 3.13 must be installed, according to the text, unless there's a full version of 3.14, but I haven't seen a full version.

Ken.

Re-install SBuilderX into Windows-7 from the "complete package" ZIP file that rhumbaflappy posted, then re-install all the most recent tile server updates into that new [SBuilderX v3.14 (64-Bit) install path]\Tiles sub-folder:


SBuilderX "complete package" download URL: https://onedrive.live.com/download?resid=F3950C5BBD2BCFA1!805

http://www.ptsim.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=2315

Hi all.

Until Luis returns from sailing, I'm going to make available a zip file of a complete SBuilderX314 folder. It contains everything. Just unzip it to the harddrive location of choice, and it should run on any 64-bit Windows7 or Windows8. Make a shortcut of the SBuilderX.exe and place that on your desktop, if you like.

When Luis returns, he'll decide if a full 314 installer is a good option, and I'll remove this zip from the cloud.

This should end installation problems a few users are still having.

Here's the link:

https://onedrive.live.com/download?resid=F3950C5BBD2BCFA1!805

Dick

Some notes on configuring that new install of SBuilderX v3.14 from Dick's "complete package" zip file:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/sbuilderx-recognition-problem.431803/#post-687842



Hope this resolves your issues with getting SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) installed, updated, and configured.

GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

Hi Gary,

I finally have the SBuilderX314 installed and runs without any errors. Before installing it, I un-installed SbuilderX313 since I won't be using that anymore. Then I ran the new install I downloaded. You mention above that after I installed SbuilderX314, I should re-install all the most recent tile server updates into that new [SBuilderX v3.14 (64-Bit) install path]\Tiles sub-folder. I guess you're including the version 722 that I've mentioned above. Remember, there're 3 folders in this version and you did explain about the x64 and x86 files and where to place it. But there's another folder named Google Server_722 that I need understanding. In this folder, there are 8 files. First of all, do I keep all these files intact in this folder and place the folder, or do I place only the files? And where do I place the files, or the folder with the files? After that, I'll place the new GoogleServer_api3.zip into the Tiles sub-folder.

Ken.

 

[GaryGB]

Hi Ken:

Bearing in mind that I did state:

"the original GoogleServer.dll (aka "Google Satellite) can continue to be used, but is largely redundant now considering all that is made available by the new GoogleServer_api3.dll file."

Extract "GoogleServer_v722.zip" into a folder, preserving the relative folder chain structure:


GoogleServer_v722.zip ...contains the following sub-folders:

\GoogleServer_v722 (contains source code; NOT to be installed into SBuilderX at this time)


\SBuilderX_x64\GoogleServer.dll <-- used only in SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit)

Put this file into: [SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location


\SBuilderX_x86\GoogleServer.dll <-- used only in SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit)

Put this file into: [SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit) install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location


CAVEAT: (For Windows-7 users)

If SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) is installed, there's no need to install SBuilderX version 3.13 (32-Bit), so you only need to install \SBuilderX_x64\GoogleServer.dll <-- used only in SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit)



Now, get that nice new GoogleServer_api3.zip installed; you'll be glad you did.

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/use-water-elevation-from-dem.440698/#post-778010

After installing the (1 and only 1) "GoogleServer_api3.dll " to:

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\ sub-folder root location, one should see (4) new "Google_api3_*" choices available to select via:


SBuilderX Menu > Edit > Preferences > {Background Tab} > Available Tile Servers


After tile server selection, 'check' "Use {Tile Server Name} ?" checkbox ...to 'apply' named tile server choice

Next, click [INI File] button to set central coordinates / BGL output path for your project location < file opens in Windows NotePad >

[Main]
LonIniCenter=-9.136076 <-- Your own project's central Longitude goes here
LatIniCenter= 38.7813203 <-- Your own project's central Latitude goes here
DecimalDegrees=True
MeasuringMeters=True
BGLFolder=C:\MyPrograms\SBuilderX314\Scenery <-- Your own project's compiled BGL 'active' \Scenery folder path goes here
OriginalTerrainCFG=False


1.) When configuration of your SBuilderX project is completed via editing "SBuilder.ini" in Windows NotePad:

.....a.) In Windows NotePad Menu > File > Save As... > "Save as type" field, set to "All Files (*.*)" (do not click OK yet)

.....b.) In NotePad Menu > File > Save As... > "Save In" field, browse to [SBuilderX install path] folder; double-click to select it


2.) Back in NotePad Menu > File > Save As... browse dialog, click "OK"

.....a.) When prompted to over-write Sbuilder.ini, click "YES" to save your edits to that file.


3.) Exit and re-start SBuilderX (...or the above changes will not yet take effect)


FYI: When "GoogleServer_api3.dll " tile down-loader runs, it writes tiles for 'layer' types into their own named sub-folder chains:

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_NoRoads\

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_Satellite\

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_BasicMap\

[SBuilderX install path]\Tiles\Google_api3_Water\

Hope this gets your SBuilderX version 3.14 (64-Bit) fully up and running ASAP !

GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

Hi Gary,

Just wanted to let you know that I have the new GoogleServer_api3 installed. I think it was mentioned here that it never has to be updated, so I did now worry about installing the version 722 GoogleServer tiles, and if I don't need them, I won't install them. If I'm correct about the api3 never has to be updated, how does it keep satellite images, for example, up-to-date?

Ken.

 

[kmanning]

BTW: For info on work-arounds for the Sketchup 'geolocate' issues with aerial imagery, see:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/updated-sketchup-wont-work.440430/#post-777782


Hope this helps !

GaryGB

Hi Gary,

Regarding the work around for the Geo Location with Google Earth, will this download work with the newer version of Sketchup, such as Sketchup 2016 and Sketchup 2017? Or, is it for version 8 or earlier versions of Sketchup? I've just recently installed the 2017 and it's in it's trial period and while in it's trial period, I'm using the Pro Version. So, I decided to install that kml into Sketchup 2016 since I'm using the Make Sketchup free version. It did install the Extension but when I try to import the file, it says: "this model does not include a Google Terrain, do you want to install it first." When I clicked Yes, it says: "The files seems not to exist. Check that the file path does not contain Unicode characters. This is a limitation of Sketchup and its Ruby version."
Now, every time I go back and launch Sketchup and click on Start using Sketchup, I get this error message that there are loading errors:

Error Loading File 3Pts_loader.rb
Error: #<SyntaxError: C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:38: syntax error, unexpected ':', expecting keyword_then or ',' or ';' or '\n'
when /mswin/ : @toggle = '(Ctrl)'

^
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:39: syntax error, unexpected keyword_when, expecting keyword_end
when /darwin/ : @toggle = '(Alt)'

^
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:39: syntax error, unexpected ':', expecting keyword_end
when /darwin/ : @toggle = '(Alt)'

^
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:264: syntax error, unexpected ':', expecting keyword_then or ',' or ';' or '\n'
when 0 : @prompt = "Pick first point,...
^
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:265: syntax error, unexpected keyword_when, expecting keyword_end
when 1 : @prompt = "Pick second p...
^
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:266: syntax error, unexpected keyword_when, expecting keyword_end
when 2 : @prompt = "Pick third po...
^
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:267: syntax error, unexpected keyword_when, expecting keyword_end
when 3 : @prompt = "Pick fourth p...
^
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_Tools/Rotated BoxM.rb:271: syntax error, unexpected keyword_end, expecting end-of-input
end

^>
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_loader.rb:32:in `load'
C:/Users/Kenneth/AppData/Roaming/SketchUp/SketchUp 2016/SketchUp/Plugins/3Pts_loader.rb:32:in `<top (required)>'

So what's up with all of this?

Ken.

 

[GaryGB]

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/where-do-i-put-the-google-server-tiles.440855/#post-779611

Hi Gary,

Just wanted to let you know that I have the new GoogleServer_api3 installed. I think it was mentioned here that it never has to be updated, so I did now worry about installing the version 722 GoogleServer tiles, and if I don't need them, I won't install them. If I'm correct about the api3 never has to be updated, how does it keep satellite images, for example, up-to-date?

Ken.

That is the magic of programming that only folks like rhumbaflappy may understand !

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/where-do-i-put-the-google-server-tiles.440855/#post-779616

Hi Gary,

I decided to install that kml into Sketchup 2016 since I'm using the Make Sketchup free version. It did install the Extension but when I try to import the file, it says: "this model does not include a Google Terrain, do you want to install it first." When I clicked Yes, it says: "The files seems not to exist. Check that the file path does not contain Unicode characters. This is a limitation of Sketchup and its Ruby version."
Now, every time I go back and launch Sketchup and click on Start using Sketchup, I get this error message that there are loading errors:

Error Loading File 3Pts_loader.rb

[text omitted for brevity]

So what's up with all of this?

Ken.

Hi Ken:

This latter issue should otherwise be regarded as a different sub-topic to be posted separately in the Sketchup forum.


IIUC, you have installed KML Tools by Aerilius into Sketchup v2017.

FYI: KML Tools was recommended to be used in Sketchup version-8, as AFAIK, it has not yet been updated for the newer version of Ruby used in v2017.


KML Tools may / may not work OK in v2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and may / may not have caused issues with "3-Pts. Tools Loader."


You may wish to see if 3-Pts. Tools will resume proper function without Ruby console startup error messages by downloading and installing the stand-alone version of "Rotated Box" (known to have been updated for v2014) by author Sam D. Mitch:

https://sketchucation.com/pluginstore?listtype=1&author=0&category=0&search=rotated+box&submit=?


NOTE: Ruby console startup error messages regarding 3-Pts. Tools "Rotated Box" may not necessarily indicate a problem with any functionality for default or add-on plugin Ruby scripts other than "Rotated Box", so those messages may be ignored for the time being, if desired.


Let me know if this installation of "Rotated Box" by author Sam D. Mitch works for you; if it doesn't, you may have to do a brief manual uninstall of the KML Tools and/or the "3-Pts. Tools Loader" plugin files and folders from the Sketchup v2016 plugin sub-folder chain.


To remove KML Tools from Sketchup v2016, with Sketchup v2016 NOT running, delete:

C:\Users\[user profile name]\AppData\Roaming\SketchUp\SketchUp 2016\SketchUp\Plugins\kmlTools.rb (1-file only)

C:\Users\[user profile name]\AppData\Roaming\SketchUp\SketchUp 2016\SketchUp\Plugins\kmlTools\ (1-folder only)


If those errors persist on the next startup of Sketchup v2016, let me know.


GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

IIUC, you have installed KML Tools by Aerilius into Sketchup v2017.

No, I installed the kml in Sketchup 2016. I did not use Sketchup 2017 because it's in its trial period and I'm able to use the Geo Location anyway. While it's in its trial period, it's the Pro version.

FYI: KML Tools was recommended to be used in Sketchup version-8, as AFAIK, it has not yet been updated for the newer version of Ruby used in v2017.

I guess that's why the kml plugin won't work in Sketchup 2016.

KML Tools may / may not work OK in v2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and may / may not have caused issues with "3-Pts. Tools Loader."

It was the 3-Pts. Tools Loader Extension that caused the error when I launched Sketchup 2016. I figured out where these files were placed and they were placed in the Plugins folder that you sited above. At first, I wasn't sure which files might be causing the issue so I just deleted the entire Plugins folder, but I backed up a copy just in case. I went back and launched Sketchup 2016 and it launched with no errors. So, I opened my old 2015 and the new 2017 Plugins folder to check their structure and found the 2 additional files, which I installed in Sketchup. Anyway, after lauching and testing the Sketchup 2016, I closed it so that I can go back and replace the Plugins fold that I deleted earlier and just delete the one file and folder only. But for some reason, it created a new entire Plugins folder with all the original files and sub-folders.

You may wish to see if 3-Pts. Tools will resume proper function without Ruby console startup error messages by downloading and installing the stand-alone version of "Rotated Box" (known to have been updated for v2014) by author Sam D. Mitch:

No, the 3 Pts. Tools is what caused the errors in Sketchup 2016 when I launched it. Anyway, I'm not receiving those error message upon launching Sketchup anymore, and I did leave the kml file extension installed. But it still will not open a Geo Location satellite map. When I Click the Extension button in Sketchup 2016 and click "Import kml," I selected the kml files and click Save. When I do that, a message pops up and says it does not contain a Google Earth terrain and if I want to import one:

"The model does not contain a Google Earth Terrain. Do you want to import one first?"

Rather I click Yes or No, I get this message:

"File seems not to exist. Please check that the file path does not contain Unicode characters. This is a limitation of Sketchup and its Ruby version."

Let me know if this installation of "Rotated Box" by author Sam D. Mitch works for you;

No, it will not work. It causes the long error message to pop up when Skethcup 2016 is launched.

I guess I'll go and get Sketchup version 8, but I wish it would work with the new versions of Sketchup. Where do I get it, in case I don't find it?

Ken.

 

[GaryGB]

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/where-do-i-put-the-google-server-tiles.440855/#post-779684

I guess I'll go and get Sketchup version 8, but I wish it would work with the new versions of Sketchup. Where do I get it, in case I don't find it?

Ken.

Hi Ken:

Sketchup 2016 already has a 3-Pts 'Rotated Box' (aka "Rotated Rectangle") tool as a default feature option.


In Sketchup 2016:

1.) Sketchup Menu > View > Toolbars... > check "Getting Started" to enable that toolbar display

2.) On the Sketchup "Getting Started" icon toolbar:

a.) Hover the Mouse cursor over the 5th icon from the left until "Shapes" tool-tip appears

b.) Left-click the 'down-arrow' on the Right side of the "Shapes" toolbar icon to switch Shape Tools type

c.) Left-click to select "Rotated Rectangle"

3.) Use Rotated Rectangle instead of the above suggested "3-Pts. Tools Loader" or "Rotated Box"


FYI: The Sketchup version 8 download info you seek is within this quoted post of mine:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/ruby-tuesday-2017-03-14.439657/

Ruby Tuesday [2017-03-14]


I am long overdue for posting another installment to this series of threads:

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/se...&t=post&o=date&c[title_only]=1&c[user][0]=995



FYI: A feature to load and immediately activate (most) plugin Ruby scripts has been built-in to newer releases of Sketchup subsequent to version 8, and the Sketchup version 8 Maintenance Release 2 (aka "M-2").


Using the 'built-in' feature, one can install other Sketchup plugin Ruby scripts via:

Sketchup Menu > Window > Preferences > Extensions > [Install Extension] button


1.) Browse to file / folder location for a downloaded plugin Ruby script file

2.) Select a plugin Ruby script file in either RB, RBS, RBZ or ZIP archive package file format

3.) Click [Open] button

4.) Say "Yes" to the security prompt regarding file / folder access permission


End users with the 'original version 8' releases of Sketchup 8 that do not (yet) have the Sketchup version 8 Maintenance Release 2 (aka "M-2") installed, have previously had to do some extra work to install Ruby plugin scripts:

http://sketchucation.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=65797

But now there are options to make that process easier.


IMHO, the following is yet another "Must_Have" Ruby plugin script for 'original version 8' releases of Sketchup 8, as well as later versions ex: Make / 2013 / 2014 / 2015 / 2016 / 2017 ...which can help minimize the number of steps required to add other Ruby plugin scripts and any required sub-folders to the proper (and version-specific) Sketchup 'system' folder chain location in Windows ...via "Drag-and-Drop" GUI method.


http://sketchucation.com/pluginstore?pln=tt_dropzone

thomthom: DropZone Plugin Installer (Windows) v1.1.0


Drag and Drop installation of RB, RBS, RBZ and ZIP packages. This plugin makes use of new HTML5 technology, therefore a modern IE or WebKit installed on the computer is required.

Usage: Plugins > Thomthom's Plugins > DropZone

Dependencies: TT Lib2

http://sketchucation.com/pluginstore?pln=TT_Lib


Downloads: 1709 [ Version Updated: 2013-11-28 18:05:00 ]




BTW: Since some FSDeveloper forum participants are "payware guys" that prefer to use Sketchup, it merits mentioning here that...

Sketchup version-8 (32-bit) is the last version allowed to be used for both freeware and commercial purposes without a license.

The original version-8 package is the 'fastest' working build compared to newer "Make" or 2013 / 2014 / 2015 / 2016 / 2017 and/or 64-bit versions, and can be downloaded here:

http://www.oldversion.com/windows/google-sketchup-8-0-16846


BTW: AFAIK, that is the last issued and most current updated Sketchup version 8 released:

http://sketchucation.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=49608


NOTE: Sketchup version-8 can run on Windows-XP if desired, although some (optional) plugin Ruby scripts may use DLLs that require more recent Windows component functions, and some dialog GUIs may require newer versions of Internet Explorer.


PS: When Google transferred Sketchup to Trimble, some server addresses changed for the Geolocation feature, and a simple fix must be implemented by the end user in order for that to function properly:

https://help.sketchup.com/en/article/3000180


Perhaps this helps anyone here that wishes to use Sketchup version-8 under its intended EULA (...and optionally on Windows-XP, if desired).

PS: Nice work troubleshooting the plugins in question that were not yet compatible with recent versions of Sketchup.

Tomorrow (Monday) I'll add some caveats to my prior posts regarding those particular plugin Ruby scripts to reduce the risk of others attempting to use them in more recent versions of Sketchup until I know that they have been updated for full compatibility by their authors, or by the otherwise authorized and highly qualified individual (TIG) who has been updating nearly all other such legacy scripts for v2017 compatibility.

Hope this helps !

GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

Hi Gary,

I was just curious. Is it okay to have more than one Sketchup program installed on a computer, for example, Sketchup version 8, Sketchup 2016, and Sketchup 2017? Of course, I would install each version in separate folders by their version names.

Also, I happened to noticed that you mentioned in that post above that Sketchup 8 is the 'fastest' working build compared to newer "Make" or 2013 / 2014 / 2015 / 2016 / 2017 and/or 64-bit versions. I find that to be of interest, since I've been working with airport scenery objects like terminals and buildings around the airport. So, are you saying that version 8 is better at doing this work than the later versions of Sketchup, including Sketchup 2017?. I was wondering if you could explain, or just show examples, of how version 8 is better than the later versions. I've just downloaded version 8 but haven't installed it yet until I hear from you about the questions I've posted. It sounds like I would be better off using version 8. Thanks for all the help you provided.

Ken.

 

[GaryGB]

http://www.fsdeveloper.com/forum/threads/where-do-i-put-the-google-server-tiles.440855/#post-779722

Hi Gary,

I was just curious. Is it okay to have more than one Sketchup program installed on a computer, for example, Sketchup version 8, Sketchup 2016, and Sketchup 2017? Of course, I would install each version in separate folders by their version names.

Yes, they can all co-exist without conflict.

Also, I happened to noticed that you mentioned in that post above that Sketchup 8 is the 'fastest' working build compared to newer "Make" or 2013 / 2014 / 2015 / 2016 / 2017 and/or 64-bit versions. I find that to be of interest, since I've been working with airport scenery objects like terminals and buildings around the airport. So, are you saying that version 8 is better at doing this work than the later versions of Sketchup, including Sketchup 2017?. I was wondering if you could explain, or just show examples, of how version 8 is better than the later versions. I've just downloaded version 8 but haven't installed it yet until I hear from you about the questions I've posted. It sounds like I would be better off using version 8. Thanks for all the help you provided.

Ken.

Version-8 (aka "v8") is simply faster in resolving inferences and demonstrates less 'lag' when toggling between Tool types.

Having more user virtual address space available via a 64-Bit version is only useful in certain complex scenarios where large textures and/or numerous objects are contained inside a single project prior to exporting them 1-by-1 to be processed via MCX for use in FS.

I suggest you load version-8 and work with it on a priority basis; the difference should be immediately apparent to you.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V8_(beverage)

GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

Hi Gary,

I have Sketchup 8 installed and I also installed the extension kml tool. Well, it's still doing the exact same thing:

"The model does not contain a Google Earth Terrain. Do you want to import one first?"

Rather I click Yes or No, I get this message:

"File seems not to exist. Please check that the file path does not contain Unicode characters. This is a limitation of Sketchup and its Ruby version."


The only thing I can figure out is that maybe I do not have the saved kml file in the correct location. You said to verify the desired filename; set output folder path; set "Save As Type": to KML When you said "set output path," you did not specify where that output path is, and I'm thinking that is my problem. I've been placing the kml file on my desktop. Is that my problem? If not, what can I can for? Do I need to update the Ruby version or something and does Sketchup come with Ruby and if I need to install that?

Ken.

 

[GaryGB]

Hi Ken:

The KML Tools plugin Ruby script generates those status and/or error messages.

"The model does not contain a Google Earth Terrain. Do you want to import one first?"

...is a prompt displayed when the KML file has no Google Earth Terrain data, but does not necessarily indicate other issues with the KML file may be problematic.


"File seems not to exist. Please check that the file path does not contain Unicode characters. This is a limitation of Sketchup and its Ruby version."

......is a prompt displayed when the KML file 'may' be problematic.



It is not clear why a few end users of KML Tools had these messages display in Sketchup-v8:

https://sketchucation.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=38009



The output path where KML files to when exported by Google Earth should not matter.

Assuming the path to your Windows Desktop is C:\Users\Kenneth\Desktop as stated above, your use of the Desktop as an output / source path proves that Windows file/folder security Administrative permissions is not likely an underlying issue.


Please ZIP your KML file and attach it to a post in this thread, and I will test it on my Sketchup version-8.


PS: Most of Sketchup and all default Tools / add-on plugin scripted features are written in Ruby.

The version of Ruby required by each Sketchup numeric version is installed with Sketchup itself.

GaryGB

 

[kmanning]

Hi Gary,

Here's the kml file you requested