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Windows NT
For many who used Windows NT in the ’90s, the vertical Start Menu banner declaring “Windows NT Workstation” is more than just a nostalgic image, it’s a slice of computing history. This distinctive blue to black gradient banner, so emblematic of the era, owes its existence to a clever bit of coding ingenuity by Windows veteran Dave Plummer.
In a recent revelation shared on X/Twitter, Plummer lifted the veil on the creation of this iconic graphic, providing insights into the challenges and solutions that marked its development. Far from being a simple design job, creating the banner was a technical feat that highlights the complexities of software development during that period.
A Banner Born from Necessity
During the ’90s, Windows NT was offered in various editions—server, workstation, and more—across multiple languages. Designing unique bitmapped banners for each version and locale would have been a herculean task, both in terms of resources and time. To circumvent this, Plummer took a novel approach: he decided to render the banner dynamically using code.
In an era predating modern web technologies, achieving vertical text rendering was no small feat. However, Windows NT had introduced a new feature—rotating the device context—which was not available in its Windows 9x predecessor. This capability allowed Plummer to use standard system fonts and rotate the text 90 degrees, effectively creating the vertical layout that became so iconic.
Mastering the Gradient
The banner’s gradient effect, which transitions from blue to black, was another challenge. To replicate the effect seen on the Windows NT packaging, Plummer employed standard GDI (Graphics Device Interface) calls. He rendered the gradient live, starting with a blue-to-black fade and filling in any extra space with solid black. This approach ensured that the banner was not only visually appealing but also perfectly aligned with the operating system’s branding. Plummer’s attention to detail in the gradient implementation showcased his commitment to delivering a polished final product, enhancing the overall user experience and reinforcing the brand’s identity.
A Learning Experience
Plummer, who was relatively new to Windows development at the time, found the project both challenging and exciting. “I’d only been coding for Windows a few months at that point, so it was cool to discover it was even possible,” he recalled. While he was not certain whether the design was his idea or that of a graphic designer, he confirmed that his role was to translate the Windows 95 design vision into Windows NT programmatically. This experience not only enhanced his programming skills but also deepened his understanding of user interface design principles, ultimately shaping his future work in software development.
A Quirky Legacy
Interestingly, the method of dynamically rendering the banner did have one unexpected consequence. Users previously had the option to swap out the static bitmap for custom artwork, a feature that led to some amusing outcomes. Plummer humorously noted that there was a trend of replacing the banner with “tall, skinny porn,” a quirky testament to the playful side of early computing culture.
The creation of the Windows NT Start Menu banner is a testament to the ingenuity and problem solving skills of early software developers. By leveraging new capabilities and creative coding, Dave Plummer not only addressed the practical constraints of the time but also left a lasting imprint on the visual identity of Windows NT. As we look back on these pioneering efforts, it’s clear that even the smallest details in software design can have a significant impact on user experience and cultural memory.
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