[GUI plugin] Palette Switcher

[dunhill]

Originally Posted by BetterRed

IMO you have made something that exemplified elegant simplicity into something unnecessarily complex.

With this:

Attachment 221216

I only need be aware of two UI elements: the palette list and the button stack: I can switch between them with the Tab key, I can traverse both with the ↓ and ↑ keys, and I can 'press' a button with the Enter key.

With this:

Attachment 221217

I have to be aware of five UI elements, the palette list and the button stack on the Palettes tab panel, the button stack on the Settings tab panel, the Toggle Dark/Light button, and the row of buttons at the bottom. I have to use the Tab key to move between them

However, it is very hard to see which of the five UI elements has focus. If you look at the screenshot on the left you might be able to discern it's the Toggle Light/Dark button, and in the screenshot on the right its the Restore Calibre Defaults button.

You can't solve the visibility issue, that's baked into the Qt/calibre pie

And when I 'pressed' the Export Selected File button, I got an error:

calibre, version 9.3.0
ERROR: Unhandled exception: <b>UnboundLocalError</b>:cannot access local variable '_' where it is not associated with a value

calibre 9.3 Portable embedded-python: True
Windows-10-10.0.19045-SP0 Windows ('64bit', 'WindowsPE')
('Windows', '10', '10.0.19045')
Python 3.14.2
Windows: ('10', '10.0.19045', 'SP0', 'Multiprocessor Free')
Interface language: None
EXE path: D:\Calibre\Portables\Version 9 current\Calibre\calibre.exe
Successfully initialized third party plugins: Current Paths (3, 0, 0) && Palette Switcher (1, 0, 900)
Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "calibre_plugins.palette_switcher.main", line 284, in export_palette
UnboundLocalError: cannot access local variable '_' where it is not associated with a value

BR

Thank you for your analysis. I fully understand that the elegance of the previous version lay in its minimalism, and I regret that the new layout affects your keyboard workflow. Let me explain the reason for these changes and how I plan to address them:

1. The Value of the Light/Dark Control
One of the implementations I consider fundamental in this version is the ability to test and validate palettes in both modes (Light and Dark) in real time. Since Calibre manages these profiles differently, integrating this switch allows the user to ensure their palette is functional under any lighting conditions without having to leave the plugin. It's a necessary layer of control for professional color management.

2. Respect for the Original Workflow
My intention with this architecture was to expand management capabilities (import/export and security). By separating the functions into tabs, I aimed to keep each tool in its place, although I recognize that this has fragmented keyboard navigation (Tab).

3. Immediate Solutions

UnboundLocalError: Fixed. It was a naming conflict in the translation system, which has now been resolved. I'll upload it shortly. That error was also preventing translations from being accepted.

Accessibility: I'm going to review the tab order. My goal is that, even with more buttons, the focus will logically jump between the list and the main action buttons (Apply/Exit), restoring the responsiveness you mentioned.

I really appreciate experienced users like you focusing on usability. I'll work to ensure that the power of these new features doesn't compromise the simplicity that made the plugin so special.

[dunhill]

Version 1.0.91, directly addressing your feedback:

Navigation restored: The plugin now opens with the list in focus. You can navigate the palettes with ↑/↓, quickly jump to the main buttons with Tab, and confirm with Enter. I've optimized the tab order to be as short and logical as possible.

Bug fixed: The UnboundLocalError when exporting is now a thing of the past.

BetterRed, I'm open to your suggestions.

[BetterRed]

@dunhill see https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sh...19&postcount=3

Same issue with this plugin's Toggle Light/Dark button.

BR

[dunhill]

Originally Posted by BetterRed

@dunhill see https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sh...19&postcount=3

Same issue with this plugin's Toggle Light/Dark button.

BR

I'll review it and add the option to alternate between the three allowed values.

[dunhill]

Palette Switcher v1.0.92: System Intelligence and Full Accessibility
This update is a significant milestone in the plugin's development, incorporating suggestions from our community to achieve a perfect balance between new features and ease of use.

Main New Features:
Intelligent Mode Detection (System): The plugin now includes a luminance algorithm that automatically detects whether your operating system is in light or dark mode. The mode button now allows you to cycle through: Light / Dark / Auto (System)

Hands-on Keyboard Accessibility: We've optimized the workflow for keyboard users:

Immediate Focus: When you open the plugin, the palette list automatically takes focus. Use the arrow keys (↑/↓) for instant previews.

Logical Tab Order: Pressing Tab simplifies the cursor's movement: List -> Apply -> Cancel -> Exit. Fewer keystrokes, more speed.

Execution with Enter: Confirming and applying your changes is now as simple as pressing Enter.

[BetterRed]

Originally Posted by dunhill

I'll review it and add the option to alternate between the three allowed values.

Let me have a look at your new version first.

BR

[BetterRed]

On Windows its not changing the colours as I traverse the list, I'm using Comfy.n's list of '44. It's the same in Light, Dark and System. When I press "Apply" the colours don't change.
When I go to L&F->Adjust colours after exiting I see following:



Essentially it's not working… at all.

BR

[dunhill]

Originally Posted by BetterRed

On Windows its not changing the colours as I traverse the list, I'm using Comfy.n's list of '44. It's the same in Light, Dark and System. When I press "Apply" the colours don't change.
When I go to L&F->Adjust colours after exiting I see following:

Attachment 221285 Attachment 221286

Essentially it's not working… at all.

BR

Send me the color palette you created so I can test it.
In that image, you're using calibre's default palette. If you create a calibre.palette file, you should select which color mode you're going to use it in (on that screen). That's why the plugin has selectors for dark, light, and default modes (default is the one calibre uses, the basic one).

[dunhill]

If you look at a calibre.palette file, you'll see it contains the two modes that calibre accepts: dark and light.

{
  "dark": {
    "palette": {
      "Window": "#1e1e1e",
      "WindowText": "#d4d4d4",
      "WindowText-disabled": "#5a5a5a",
      "Base": "#252526",
      "AlternateBase": "#2d2d2d",
      "ToolTipBase": "#333333",
      "ToolTipText": "#d4d4d4",
      "ToolTipText-disabled": "#5a5a5a",
      "Text": "#d4d4d4",
      "Text-disabled": "#5a5a5a",
      "Button": "#2d2d2d",
      "ButtonText": "#d4d4d4",
      "ButtonText-disabled": "#5a5a5a",
      "BrightText": "#ffffff",
      "BrightText-disabled": "#7a7a7a",
      "Highlight": "#007acc",
      "HighlightedText": "#ffffff",
      "HighlightedText-disabled": "#7a7a7a",
      "Link": "#3794ff",
      "LinkVisited": "#9cdcfe",
      "PlaceholderText": "#808080",
      "PlaceholderText-disabled": "#5a5a5a",
      "Foreground": "#d4d4d4",
      "Foreground-disabled": "#5a5a5a",
      "Background": "#1e1e1e",
      "Background-disabled": "#2d2d2d",
      "Shadow": "#000000",
      "Shadow-disabled": "#1a1a1a",
      "Light": "#3c3c3c",
      "Light-disabled": "#2a2a2a",
      "Midlight": "#2e2e2e",
      "Midlight-disabled": "#2a2a2a",
      "Dark": "#1a1a1a",
      "Dark-disabled": "#1a1a1a",
      "Mid": "#2a2a2a",
      "Mid-disabled": "#2a2a2a"
    },
    "use_custom": true
  },
  "light": {
    "palette": {
      "AlternateBase": "#C9B194",
      "Base": "#DBDBDB",
      "BrightText": "#706D54",
      "BrightText-disabled": "#A08963",
      "Button": "#C9B194",
      "ButtonText": "#706D54",
      "ButtonText-disabled": "#A08963",
      "Highlight": "#706D54",
      "HighlightedText": "#C9B194",
      "HighlightedText-disabled": "#A08963",
      "Link": "#706D54",
      "LinkVisited": "#A08963",
      "PlaceholderText": "#706D54",
      "PlaceholderText-disabled": "#C9B194",
      "Text": "#706D54",
      "Text-disabled": "#A08963",
      "ToolTipBase": "#DBDBDB",
      "ToolTipText": "#706D54",
      "ToolTipText-disabled": "#A08963",
      "Window": "#DBDBDB",
      "WindowText": "#706D54",
      "WindowText-disabled": "#A08963",
      "Foreground": "#706D54",
      "Foreground-disabled": "#A08963",
      "Background": "#DBDBDB",
      "Background-disabled": "#C9B194",
      "Shadow": "#BCA98A",
      "Shadow-disabled": "#C9B194",
      "Light": "#EDE8E2",
      "Light-disabled": "#D6CFC4",
      "Midlight": "#E0D8CC",
      "Midlight-disabled": "#C9B194",
      "Dark": "#A08963",
      "Dark-disabled": "#C9B194",
      "Mid": "#BCA98A",
      "Mid-disabled": "#C9B194"
    },
    "use_custom": true
  }
}

But for them to have an effect on the interface, you have to select which mode you want to apply them to. You can do this in the Preferences / L&F / Color Adjustment interface.

With the plugin, everything is in the same window: import the color palette file, select the mode you want to use the palette in, and the plugin will tell you which mode calibre is currently using.

By moving the cursor with the arrows, you can see how the colors in the calibre interface change. Double-clicking applies the changes, or you can click the Apply button.

[dunhill]

Clarification on Palette Switcher and System Defaults

"I’ve been following the discussion regarding how Calibre handles system defaults, and I’d like to clarify how Palette Switcher interacts with these settings, as it serves a different purpose than 'Toggle Light and Dark'.

Colors vs. Styles: As noted, Calibre has two distinct 'System' settings. While Comfy.n’s plugin is excellent for toggling the global mode, Palette Switcher focuses specifically on the Color Palettes. The reason the warning didn't appear for some users is that Palette Switcher explicitly sets a custom color theme (stored in __current__), which 'takes over' the UI colors to allow for total customization.

The 'System Default' Lock: It is true that on Windows, setting the UI Style to 'System Default' can sometimes override or disable color palettes. Palette Switcher is designed for users who want to break away from those OS-imposed limitations and have consistent, hand-picked colors regardless of what the OS style engine is doing.

Coexistence: These plugins aren't doing the same thing. Think of it this way: One flips the light switch (Toggle), while the other chooses the exact shade of paint on the walls (Palette Switcher).

In the latest version (1.0.93), I've added a luminance-based 'Auto' mode. This means Palette Switcher now 'listens' to the system's brightness to switch your custom palettes automatically, providing a bridge between 'System Default' and high-level customization without the bugs of the native OS lock."

[BetterRed]

Originally Posted by dunhill

Send me the color palette you created so I can test it.
In that image, you're using calibre's default palette. If you create a calibre.palette file, you should select which color mode you're going to use it in (on that screen). That's why the plugin has selectors for dark, light, and default modes (default is the one calibre uses, the basic one).

I am using the palettes in post 15 of this thread. I tried using all three modes (Light, Dark and Auto) on palettes I've used in previous version of this plugin.

No matter which palette I select, or which mode I'm in the colours do not change when I select another palette, if I Apply a palette… the colours do not change.

This is what I get with the previous version



This is what I get with the new version



BR

[dunhill]

Originally Posted by BetterRed

I am using the palettes in post 15 of this thread. I tried using all three modes (Light, Dark and Auto) on palettes I've used in previous version of this plugin.

No matter which palette I select, or which mode I'm in the colours do not change when I select another palette, if I Apply a palette… the colours do not change.

This is what I get with the previous version

Attachment 221290

This is what I get with the new version

Attachment 221291

BR

Can you tell me the file name?

[BetterRed]

So what am I supposed to make of this popup from Toggle Light & Dark



BR

[BetterRed]

All of them - darker-purples.calibre palette worked previously as can be seen in the first screen shot, it does not change the colors in any mode in the new version - nor do any of the other 43 pallets in 3 modes.

When I revert to previous version of the plugin they all work in the modes they were meant to work in.

BR

[dunhill]

I can't replicate the error. It works for me; let's wait for other comments while I thoroughly review the code.