Software Props

'Software props' is a term I have coined for these little programs. Each one is written in Flash, and the idea is to simulate the workings of a specific computer or console as seen in a science-fiction film. Sorry but they are not games, although some do allow you to control them.

Files are supplied in three formats: SWF, which should run in most browsers; EXE, which is a standalone program for PC; and HQX, which will extract to a standalone Mac file. Just select the version you want and right-click to download it. These programs are free to distribute, but please do not attempt to hack or alter them.

In response to numerous requests I have begun converting some of them to PC screensavers. The file I am providing is an auto-installer which will do the whole thing for you. Warning: these 'screensavers' are by nature relatively static, and as such will not 'protect' your screen. If you use them for long enough on a CRT you may eventually damage your screen.

If you find a good use for any of these (such as in a fanfilm perhaps), do please let me know. If you find any bugs or have (constructive) criticisms or suggestions for future projects, I'd be happy to hear from you.

Working on: Aliens motion tracker, BSG Viper screen (TOS)


#1: Death Star power display

Star Wars: A New Hope

This is the display on the tractor beam generator which Ben Kenobi has to deactivate.

Controls: 'LEFT' and 'RIGHT' keys move the slider up and down. 'A' toggles 'auto' mode (random fluctuations). Try and find the 'easter egg' which switches the writing between Aurebesh (special editions) and English (originals)!

Downloads: SWF 8kb / EXE (PC) 808kb / HQX (MAC) 1443kb


#2: Millennium Falcon gunport display

Star Wars: A New Hope

When Luke and Han climb into the gunports of the Falcon, this is the display in front of them. It shows the lateral motion of the turret along with enemy craft flying by.

Controls: 'LEFT' and 'RIGHT' keys turn the turret. 'A' toggles 'auto' mode (random turns). 'B' toggles the bezel (surround) on and off. 'X' toggles the enemy ships on and off. 'R' restarts the program.

Downloads: SWF 55kb / EXE (PC) 855kb / HQX (MAC) 1508kb


#3: Sentry Gun remote terminal



Aliens: Special Edition

Our heroes attempt to defend themselves with four automated sentry guns. Each gun has a laptop terminal showing its status.

Controls:

Screen 1 (set-up)
Four arrow keys navigate around the menu, setting options as you go. (These options have no effect on the program, but if you want to be like the film then the last thing you do should be to set the weapon status to 'armed'.) When done, press 'SPACE' to move on to...

Screen 2 (fire control)
'F' fires the gun. 'A', 'B', 'C' and 'D' change the gun ID letter in the upper corners. 'Z' toggles 'auto' mode (random firing). 'R' restarts the program.

Downloads: SWF 27kb / EXE (PC) 827kb / HQX (MAC) 1468kb


#4: X/Y-wing targetting computer

Star Wars: A New Hope

When the pilots of gold and red groups make their attack runs on the Death Star exhaust port, this is the display which shows how far they have to go. Just enter a starting range when prompted. (FYI, the red bars start to move in at around 047000.)

Controls: Press 'P' to toggle pause. 'D' toggles direction of travel, should you want to. 'R' restarts the program.

Downloads: SWF 9kb / EXE (PC) 809kb / HQX (MAC) 1444kb / INSTALL SCREENSAVER (PC) 1099kb