This is the FAQ page
What is the maximum size of image that S_Merge can handle ???
This is dependent on computer memory and speed. A 10 megapixel 24 bit bitmap picture in the target will require about 90 mbyte because S_Merge has to store the two source images as well unless one the sources is very small in which case it is about 60 mbyte. It takes about 10 seconds to process the two images to the target with two 5 megapixel source images on a modern 2GHZ machine. Images over 25 megapixel are not practical as it takes too long to process especially if there are many adjustments to make. In any case S_Merge has hard traps internally, locking out images where the width or height is greater the 20,000 pixels or where memory capability is exceeded.
What if one source image is bigger than the other ???
The parts that overlay will do so in the target image. Non overlaying sections will appear exactly as is in the target. Use the crop rectangle to exclude these edge sections if you wish when saving to a file.
The two input source images can be placed anywhere right ???
Yes, they can be placed next to each other, one on top or completely or partially overlaid. They don't even have to touch as a minimum, there can be a gap in between.
Following on from that question, can I put two images side by side for panorama stitching ???
No, S_Merge is not designed for that as both images have to undergo a form of distortion and S_Merge is designed for 'linear' overlays. There are other issues such as image exposure differences, noticeable at the join. There is plenty of good software out there for panoramic stitching.
When two source images partially overlap, there can be blank no mans land areas in the target where neither source image overlays. What is the color of these areas ???
These areas are colored according to what setting is used in the merge source 1 and 2 option box:
Setting is average then color is gray Setting is greatest then color is black
Setting is least then color is white
What types of bitmap imges can S_Merge handle ???
S_Merge can accept any combination of 1 bit 4, bit 8 bit 16 bit 24 bit and 32 bit bitmaps for both source images so long as they are not RLE compressed.
The output bitmap type saved to a file will be dependent on the input files as follows: Source one is 1 bit and source 2 is 1 bit then output bitmap = 1 bit black and white - no colors Source one is 1 bit and source 2 is 4 bit then output bitmap = 8 bit Source one is 4 bit and source 2 is 1 bit then output bitmap = 8 bit Source one is 4 bit and source 2 is 4 bit then output bitmap = 8 bit All other source combinations result in the output bitmap = 24 bit Of course the above assumes that you save a file as a bitmap.
Can I merge an image with itself in a different position???
Yes you can, just load the same image twice. Try mirroring one of the images also try offsetting one slightly!