[Gimp-user] 8 and 1 bit images

[rich404 <forums gimpusers com>]

> Thanks I use Windows 7 64 bit.
> I have seen reference to alpha channel but don't know that they are.
> Could you explain what an alpha channel is and is there a method of
> adding a layer which is not an alpha channel?
>
> Maybe I can EXPORT to another format then import into Paint Shop Pro
> convert and save?

An alpha channel is just a mask which tells the particular graphics application
used that any pixel is 'transparent' often represented by that checker board
pattern. Not all applications respect an alpha channel.

just do a search https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha_compositing

You can try a png with mode set a indexed 1 bit. the properties look like the
attached.

However, are you sure you are on the correct track, what does flight simulator
require. A layer mask in Gimp is B&W where black is 100% 'transparent' and white
is 100% 'opaque'. That provides the 'alpha channel'

(and ignore that Imagemagick command line, same as a Gimp grayscale with alpha.
My bad info)

rich: www.gimp-forum.net

Attachments:
* http://www.gimpusers.com/system/attachments/693/original/indexed.png

-- 
rich404 (via www.gimpusers.com/forums)