Multiple files vs. 1 file?
 

I am just starting to develop my own UI and have a question. I have noticed that other designers keep the graphics for many of the elements in a couple combined files as opposed to having tabs in one file, borders in another, and so on.

Does this help with load time(since the system only has to store 1 large file as opposed to 2 small files)? Or is it just a preference of the designer?

Thanks

I put 100% of my window graphic in a 1024x1024 file. The reason I do that is because its easier to maintain then 10 or 15 smaller files. I do keep each element in its own layer howerver. So all my frames are on one layer, all my buttons are on one layer and ect. When I 1st started I had my graphic spread out like SOE does but got tired of trying to remember where I put what so I just compined them


It's my understanding that the "file size" doesn't matter as it does not load the entire file, it just takes snippets of that file occording to the sourcerect. The only proformance hit I have notice is when you save in 32 bit 8:8:8:8 mode with mips. I didn't notice any proformance hits or gains by putting them all into one file.

I've moved away from this method in my upcoming release. I am not sure if it has performance gains or not. I've basically split my images up into 4 files. Frames, Widgets, group, and eXtreme's signature images.