FAQ
This page compiles the most frequently asked questions and answers when using NineBoxView Pro.
Table of Contents
Installation & Compatibility
Which Glyphs versions are supported?
NineBoxView Pro supports Glyphs 3 and requires macOS 12.0 or later.
Can't find the plugin after installation?
Please confirm you restarted Glyphs after installation, then look for NineBoxView Pro in the View menu.
Can I install both free and Pro versions?
Yes, data from both versions is stored separately and won't interfere with each other.
Reference Glyphs
Entered characters not showing?
Possible reasons:
- Glyph doesn't exist: Confirm the glyph exists in the current font file
- Wrong input format: When using glyph names, prefix with
/, e.g.,/adieresis
How to enter Unicode characters?
The following formats are supported:
| Format | Example |
|---|---|
/uniXXXX |
/uni6C38 (official format) |
/uXXXXX |
/u06C38 (5-digit) |
/XXXX |
/6C38 (pure 4-5 digit number) |
Is there a pattern to random arrangement?
Random arrangement distributes reference glyphs randomly to non-locked empty positions. The center cell (position 4) always displays the current editing glyph and won't be replaced by reference glyphs.
Locked Glyphs
Why can't the center cell be locked?
The center cell (position 4) always displays the current editing glyph — this is a core feature of NineBoxView Pro. Keeping the center cell showing the editing glyph allows you to see design changes in the grid context in real-time.
How to clear all locks at once?
Hold Cmd+Opt and click the center cell to clear all position locks.
Where is locked glyph data stored?
Locked glyph data is stored in the font file (GSFont.userData) and saved with the file. Lock settings are restored when reopening the font file.
Presets
What's the difference between reference and lock presets?
| Type | Stored Content | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ref | Reference input text | Quickly switch between different test glyph sets |
| Locked | Locked position configuration | Save specific grid arrangements |
Can presets be used across files?
Yes. Presets are stored in application settings (NSUserDefaults) and can be shared across different font files.
How to share presets between computers?
Use the import/export feature:
- On the source computer, click "Export All…" to export a JSON file
- Transfer the JSON file to the target computer
- On the target computer, click "Import…" to import
Note
Pin status is not preserved during export.
Should I choose "Append" or "Replace All" when importing?
| Option | Effect |
|---|---|
| Append | Keep existing presets, add imported presets |
| Replace All | Clear existing presets, keep only imported presets |
Tip
If unsure, we recommend choosing "Append" first, then manually delete unwanted presets.
Licensing
Are there any restrictions during trial?
During the trial period (14 days), you have access to all features of NineBoxView Pro without any restrictions.
Can I use the license on multiple computers?
Yes, you can use the same license key on multiple computers you own.
What if I lose my license key?
Contact the developer via "Contact Us…" with the email address used for purchase, and we'll help you recover your license key.
Do I need to reactivate after changing computers?
Yes, you need to re-enter the license key on a new computer. The license key never expires and can be used unlimited times.
Other Questions
What is the blur feature for?
The blur feature applies a blur effect to the entire grid window, allowing you to check the overall gray distribution of all characters without being distracted by individual stroke details.
Reference glyphs disappeared when holding Shift?
This is normal behavior (Solo mode). Release Shift to restore.
If you have Light Table installed and its comparison tool active, Shift will instead trigger version comparison.
How to report issues?
Click "Feedback…" in the info menu, describe the issue along with your macOS and Glyphs versions.