wip

Automatically generated by python-semantic-release

.github/workflows/ci.yml

@@ -1,80 +1,82 @@
 name: Full CI
-on: 
+on:
   push:
   pull_request:
   workflow_dispatch:
     inputs:
       BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH:
-        description: 'Branch of BEC Widgets to install'
+        description: "Branch of BEC Widgets to install"
         required: false
         type: string
       BEC_CORE_BRANCH:
-        description: 'Branch of BEC Core to install'
+        description: "Branch of BEC Core to install"
         required: false
         type: string
       OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH:
-        description: 'Branch of Ophyd Devices to install'
+        description: "Branch of Ophyd Devices to install"
         required: false
         type: string
 
+concurrency:
+  group: ${{ github.workflow }}-${{ github.event.pull_request.number || github.ref }}
+  cancel-in-progress: true
+
 permissions:
   pull-requests: write
 
 jobs:
-  check_pr_status:
-    uses: ./.github/workflows/check_pr.yml
+  # check_pr_status:
+  #   uses: ./.github/workflows/check_pr.yml
 
-  formatter:
-    needs: check_pr_status
-    if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
-    uses: ./.github/workflows/formatter.yml
+  # formatter:
+  #   needs: check_pr_status
+  #   if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
+  #   uses: ./.github/workflows/formatter.yml
 
-  unit-test:
-    needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
-    if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
-    uses: ./.github/workflows/pytest.yml
-    with:
-      BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref }}
-      BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
-      OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH || 'main' }}
-    secrets:
-      CODECOV_TOKEN: ${{ secrets.CODECOV_TOKEN }}
+  # unit-test:
+  #   needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
+  #   if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
+  #   uses: ./.github/workflows/pytest.yml
+  #   with:
+  #     BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref }}
+  #     BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
+  #     OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH || 'main' }}
+  #   secrets:
+  #     CODECOV_TOKEN: ${{ secrets.CODECOV_TOKEN }}
 
-  unit-test-matrix:
-    needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
-    if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
-    uses: ./.github/workflows/pytest-matrix.yml
-    with:
-      BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref || github.sha}}
-      BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
-      OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH || 'main' }}
+  # unit-test-matrix:
+  #   needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
+  #   if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
+  #   uses: ./.github/workflows/pytest-matrix.yml
+  #   with:
+  #     BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref || github.sha}}
+  #     BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
+  #     OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH || 'main' }}
 
-  generate-cli-test:
-    needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
-    if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
-    uses: ./.github/workflows/generate-cli-check.yml
+  # generate-cli-test:
+  #   needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
+  #   if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
+  #   uses: ./.github/workflows/generate-cli-check.yml
 
   end2end-test:
-    needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
-    if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
     uses: ./.github/workflows/end2end-conda.yml
 
-  child-repos:
-    needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
-    if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
-    uses: ./.github/workflows/child_repos.yml
-    with:
-      BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
-      OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH || 'main'}} 
-      BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref || github.sha }}
-  
-  plugin_repos:
-    needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
-    if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
-    uses: bec-project/bec/.github/workflows/plugin_repos.yml@main
-    with:
-      BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
-      BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref || github.sha }}
+  # child-repos:
+  #   needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
+  #   if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
+  #   uses: ./.github/workflows/child_repos.yml
+  #   with:
+  #     BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
+  #     OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH || 'main'}}
+  #     BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref || github.sha }}
 
-    secrets:
-      GH_READ_TOKEN: ${{ secrets.GH_READ_TOKEN }}
+  # plugin_repos:
+  #   needs: [check_pr_status, formatter]
+  #   if: needs.check_pr_status.outputs.branch-pr == ''
+  #   uses: bec-project/bec/.github/workflows/plugin_repos.yml@main
+  #   with:
+  #     BEC_CORE_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_CORE_BRANCH || 'main' }}
+  #     BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH: ${{ inputs.BEC_WIDGETS_BRANCH || github.head_ref || github.sha }}
+
+  #   secrets:
+  #     GH_READ_TOKEN: ${{ secrets.GH_READ_TOKEN }}

.github/workflows/end2end-conda.yml

@@ -48,12 +48,14 @@ jobs:
           source ./bin/install_bec_dev.sh -t
           cd ../
           pip install -e ./ophyd_devices -e .[dev,pyside6] -e ./bec_testing_plugin
-          pytest -v --files-path ./ --start-servers --random-order  ./tests/end-2-end
+          pip install pytest-repeat
+
+          pytest -v --files-path ./ --start-servers --random-order  ./tests/end-2-end/user_interaction/test_user_interaction_e2e.py
 
       - name: Upload logs if job fails
         if: failure()
         uses: actions/upload-artifact@v4
         with:
           name: pytest-logs
-          path: ./logs/*.log
+          path: ./bec/logs/*.log
           retention-days: 7

CHANGELOG.md

@@ -1,6 +1,723 @@
 # CHANGELOG
 
 
+## v3.2.0 (2026-03-11)
+
+### Features
+
+- **curve, waveform**: Add dap_parameters for lmfit customization in DAP requests
+  ([`14d51b8`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/14d51b80169f5a060dd24287f3a6db9a4b41275a))
+
+- **waveform**: Composite DAP with multiple models
+  ([`b4f6f5a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b4f6f5aa8bcd0f6091610e8f839ea265c87575e0))
+
+
+## v3.1.4 (2026-03-11)
+
+### Bug Fixes
+
+- **profile_utils**: Renamed to fetch widgets settings
+  ([`53e5ec4`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/53e5ec42b8b33397af777f418fbd8601628226a6))
+
+### Build System
+
+- Increased minimal version of bec and bec qthemes
+  ([`7e0e391`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7e0e391888f2ee4e8528ccb3938e36da4c32f146))
+
+
+## v3.1.3 (2026-03-09)
+
+### Bug Fixes
+
+- **monaco_dock**: Optimization, removal of QTimer, eventFilter replaced by signal/slot
+  ([`278d8de`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/278d8de058c2f5c6c9aa7317e1026651d7a4acd3))
+
+
+## v3.1.2 (2026-03-06)
+
+### Bug Fixes
+
+- **dock_area**: Remove old AdvancedDockArea references
+  ([`4382d5c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4382d5c9b1fdac4048692eec53dd43127d67467b))
+
+### Build System
+
+- **deps**: Update isort requirement
+  ([`8463b32`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/8463b327923f853cfa1462bc22be1e83d4fd9a75))
+
+
+## v3.1.1 (2026-03-06)
+
+### Bug Fixes
+
+- **positioner box**: Include username in scan queue request
+  ([`419c01b`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/419c01bdd4e80d927761634b03723319b0a58694))
+
+### Build System
+
+- Update min bec dependency to 3.106
+  ([`e2daf2e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/e2daf2e89cd25d4dcedd4895299dbbdc6b7e354f))
+
+- **deps**: Upgrade to black 26
+  ([`e157f0d`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/e157f0d7c9bb5b4d93f63ebe6f9a715a314aa1f4))
+
+### Refactoring
+
+- **black**: Black 26 applied
+  ([`d4e037f`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/d4e037f3384765e7bb8fb020cecbf3db24fc7494))
+
+### Testing
+
+- Fix import of bec_lib json extended
+  ([`ef12331`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/ef1233163cb7c3229630543fe88dbceaccd09297))
+
+
+## v3.1.0 (2026-03-06)
+
+### Bug Fixes
+
+- **forms**: Use FieldInfo title for label text in _add_griditem method
+  ([`5e34c8a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5e34c8a3518f24722267b3cde2dd9d3494e350b0))
+
+- **scan metadata**: Set scan_name to current scan if empty in form data
+  ([`72e66cf`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/72e66cf57f1d47851728448e2e0f776cd8e278f2))
+
+### Features
+
+- **bec_queue**: Add tooltip support for user metadata in queue display
+  ([`56f16b6`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/56f16b63528b5a50f5a2e2d2e9dd93f3993e50e4))
+
+- **scan control**: Wrap metadata form in a group box for better organization
+  ([`e6b41b4`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/e6b41b4e92a1ffd0494c2bde6a782347c2364114))
+
+- **scan queue**: Add scan name to queue
+  ([`ab3efdb`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/ab3efdbd0a0a80293ba2121e78ea319ddbbd8f82))
+
+- **StrFormItem**: Set placeholder text from spec description
+  ([`ac824f6`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/ac824f6b83178e34f015c296008d7a1e21c70878))
+
+### Testing
+
+- Adjust metadata assertions to new schema defaults
+  ([`75697f5`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/75697f5b1faefb5cfcbc1b753d3f505d69339559))
+
+- Adjust metadata assertions to new schema defaults
+  ([`2697496`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/26974965151748c57334f350e21f3b610f92e011))
+
+
+## v3.0.0 (2026-03-06)
+
+### Bug Fixes
+
+- 'any' type annotations
+  ([`9c4a544`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/9c4a54493adc94afe5d43db5e8cbb8d565670af2))
+
+- Add metadata to scan control export
+  ([`17e678b`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/17e678b0ad1739490e901f3dbf7180d99c96950c))
+
+- Address copilot review
+  ([`a1a400f`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/a1a400f5409213ee1ab2f7cc9f8da7a2b612972d))
+
+- Adjust ring progress bar to ads
+  ([`7fd7f67`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7fd7f67857e23b04759cf23993a99f4701121f95))
+
+- Don't wait forever
+  ([`c1d0e43`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/c1d0e435d5dd9965dbafd5bf469327c7f7620cfd))
+
+- Removal of old BECDock import
+  ([`92ae5fc`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/92ae5fc7fbf3a55068e2b42d3f66134baeb71766))
+
+- Remove manual stylesheet deletion/override
+  ([`8bbd519`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/8bbd519559c857cdc9f51e9507994e7aa4b07af1))
+
+- Remove singleShots from BECConnector and adjustments of dock area logic
+  ([`e26a90c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/e26a90c62fa6c176bf4425867d1cb895a6fad7cd))
+
+- Sanitize name space util for bec connector and ads
+  ([`beca23e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/beca23e14e18445f6ee440e8c55b57f4180a36c9))
+
+- Tooltip logic and disable button on running scan
+  ([`fa56fc8`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/fa56fc88026521f6f13690c4ec621c79e318f434))
+
+- **_OverlayEventFilter**: Fix typo
+  ([`a9f92cf`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/a9f92cf15547d207a614a1ed08b5d763a569fe59))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Cli API adjustments docs + names
+  ([`6883982`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6883982bf67c5fff02d72fbe39425af39bc3a65e))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Empty profile is always empty
+  ([`aba67d3`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/aba67d3129581c85467ddd83211a03ea51c157a3))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Ensure the general profile exists when launched first time
+  ([`7d2760e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7d2760eab8e5494992adb1452705f58619842d30))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: New profiles are saved with quickselect as default
+  ([`0d6b94a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/0d6b94aaecb56e51bdc1ff930079b6c5535798de))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Profile behaviour adjusted, cleanup of the codebase
+  ([`22df7bb`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/22df7bb5320c3b1808ab21e6354350838f5acb63))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Remove all widgets when loading new profiles
+  ([`b841cfb`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b841cfbc5f5021c1f9bea03e7fe88713506f66a7))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Remove widget from dock area by object name
+  ([`8f44213`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/8f44213ecccca882f22b8738baef28b68d99c381))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Removed non-functional dock_list and dock_map from RPC
+  ([`88b6e01`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/88b6e015bf1ab3b56db843ec13a6473ad67c4acc))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Removed the singleShot for load_initial_profile
+  ([`3236dfb`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3236dfb07f477fb87bcbcd0ee983781d5281beb6))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Replace sanitize_namespace with slugify
+  ([`013b916`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/013b916ca3beb7a47db9009b9e07250ae52979b1))
+
+- **basic_dock_area**: Delete_all will also delete floating docks
+  ([`6b2b42f`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6b2b42f21afa98d4ee5cb9d969aaa21cfc633f4e))
+
+- **basic_dock_area**: Removed the singleShot usage
+  ([`6cff8d7`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6cff8d7a41f6f08908c3dd20fd563ab2612976e3))
+
+- **bec_connector**: Use RPC register to fetch all connections
+  ([`56b1e66`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/56b1e6687f4ce56e7c836678d397d1ca0fbec459))
+
+- **bec_connector**: Widget_removed and name_established signals added
+  ([`389a93f`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/389a93f8d07d44c17772e6183ee129db7692bd89))
+
+- **bec_widget**: Improved qt enums; grab safeguard
+  ([`f38cd3e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/f38cd3e3a043151ce25f91d9a6b325a6c6ac5103))
+
+- **bec_widgets**: Adapt to bec_qthemes 1.0; themes can be only applied on living Qt objects
+  ([`b0cd619`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b0cd619d7dff8f7ce7bc37ea6acea9473b2273d8))
+
+- **becconnector**: Ophyd thread killer on exit + in conftest
+  ([`0b9e5c1`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/0b9e5c15afb8b6f271992cb70c235c2be44c24a8))
+
+- **becconnector**: Sanitize the setObjectName from qobject inheritance
+  ([`7507f27`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7507f27d686300a2b42c80dc06f3c78142c7ef84))
+
+- **busy-loader**: Adjust busy loader and tests
+  ([`94faaba`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/94faaba24d45a1ff971879486fa044fce49d2d5c))
+
+- **CLI**: Change the default behavior of launching the profiles in CLI
+  ([`b43b6e8`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b43b6e844b4f178f9636b325aee0ce4fa2152199))
+
+- **CLI**: Dock_area can be created from CLI with specific profile or empty
+  ([`9c66dd5`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/9c66dd59914e2c8964f811f4e7e522fd3ae75633))
+
+- **cli**: Rpc API from any folder
+  ([`b29648e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b29648e10b0ea7931ad216221f231b77ab8998d8))
+
+- **client**: Abort, reset, stop button removed from RPC access
+  ([`c923f79`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/c923f7929370c3ac721dfa84d7cafcd0aa406c92))
+
+- **client**: Client API regenerated
+  ([`7083f94`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7083f94f467ad4d40bea57dcdc96c75aa3690910))
+
+- **client_utils**: Delete is deleting window and its content
+  ([`be55bf2`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/be55bf20c1295c1e710457638c1bc7154b23011e))
+
+- **client_utils**: Safeguard for accessing gui.new and launcher if GUIServer not running
+  ([`4d41be6`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4d41be61b546931c728b584f190aa4de3f418dd3))
+
+- **colors**: Added logger to the apply theme
+  ([`1f363d9`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/1f363d9bd4e6f7a01edcbe5d0049560459d184d0))
+
+- **colors**: More benevolent fetching of colormap names, avoid hardcoded wrong colormap mapping
+  from GradientWidget from pg
+  ([`cd9c7ab`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/cd9c7ab079bee1623a93ff63142cac8ebf61facd))
+
+- **dark_mode_button**: Rpc access disabled
+  ([`4fc2522`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4fc252220d3a22f52b1148ba64045f5884d59182))
+
+- **dark_mode_button**: Skip settings added
+  ([`1c18810`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/1c18810e5faf0de96bb7381db3d8c4bcd2596596))
+
+- **developer widget**: Save before executing a scripts
+  ([`d085f65`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/d085f651532f84e720506745dbd44b80fb05a4be))
+
+- **device-form-dialog**: Adapt device-form-dialog ophyd validation test
+  ([`36be529`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/36be5292da1a2c30ef9a8493ad49f361d878c23a))
+
+- **device-form-dialog**: Adapt DeviceFormDialog to run validation of config upon editing/adding a
+  config, and forward validation results
+  ([`7c28364`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7c283645948999f6a6b2e480418e5c8c7f158fb5))
+
+- **device-init-progress-bar**: Fix ui format for device init progressbar
+  ([`caba3a5`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/caba3a55f3a7a62a74f8f36b14a960e9c0fe0981))
+
+- **device-manager**: Fix minor icon synchronization bugs
+  ([`1d654bd`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/1d654bd8bdaac581a934cb9bab5a64a9021b4972))
+
+- **device-manager-display-widget**: Fix error message popup on cancelling upload
+  ([`fa49322`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/fa49322d1fd94ec4235c435dd6ca5e5234cd6bcc))
+
+- **device-manager-display-widget**: Remove devices from ophyd validation after upload to BEC
+  ([`7805c7a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7805c7a1916d8d153881eaf6b96825a010ad6a9c))
+
+- **device-progress-bar**: Remove stretch in content layout
+  ([`3fe6a00`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3fe6a00708c459595b2eedb2a902c4ca5cae7171))
+
+- **device_combobox**: Public flag for valid input
+  ([`6c73307`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6c73307bb43dfc2ae6181bd4be3854b7e198eb1d))
+
+- **device_input_widgets**: Removed RPC access
+  ([`940face`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/940face1187a0d3480ca3d64c061550271ff54e4))
+
+- **dock_area**: Profile management with empty profile, applied across the whole repo
+  ([`963941a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/963941a788c1ce8a5def15b9a9d930ef9c62f41e))
+
+- **dock_area**: Tabbed dock have correct parent
+  ([`a632f35`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/a632f35c40e8323378f2464a6a82a484edf4ff33))
+
+- **dock_area**: The old BECDockArea(pg) removed and replaces by AdvancedDockArea(ADS)
+  ([`a6583ad`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/a6583ad53f6a1004af1a87904517d97a52801116))
+
+- **dock_area**: Widget_map and widget_list by default returns only becconnector based widgets
+  ([`3a5317b`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3a5317be53d21130203a534b0dbf6bbef2d1a1c8))
+
+- **editors**: Vscode widget removed
+  ([`48387c0`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/48387c0ad9234f5f7600644eb12fa12c6d29efa7))
+
+- **FakeDevice**: Add _info dict
+  ([`2992939`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/2992939b0fa504418fe06173c11702e9dd4f3ce2))
+
+- **general_app**: Old general app example removed
+  ([`3ebac55`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3ebac55e2d6aabf971d818fddb53430a690a7392))
+
+- **guided-tour**: Fix skip past invalid step for 'prev' step
+  ([`7bcdc31`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7bcdc31f119b7b0996c7eac75008cef0b6e880ff))
+
+- **heatmap**: Devices are saved as SafeProperties
+  ([`6baf196`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6baf1962faa0628ba872790e6cb34565bc7d0d7c))
+
+- **heatmap**: Interpolation of the image moved to separate thread
+  ([`323c8d5`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/323c8d5bc00f12b2d032f3da5daa47ef3e4774bc))
+
+- **heatmap**: Interpolation thread is killed only on exit, logger for dandling thread
+  ([`6fc524c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6fc524c819903eedd690adcb09f7aa70ee4d2248))
+
+- **launch_window**: Argument to start with the gui class
+  ([`3c16909`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3c16909a875337efdec9e984f952c390ce99cfb4))
+
+- **launch_window**: Launch geometry for widgets launched from launcher to 80% of the primary screen
+  as default
+  ([`6459281`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6459281387c8f1287347b9569a77aa1e9444013c))
+
+- **launch_window**: Logic for showing launcher
+  ([`d9b7285`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/d9b728584fb7e96ebac1c0f29f713290c0092556))
+
+- **launch_window**: Processevents removed
+  ([`c61d00e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/c61d00e761851a67003921c2ad689238e360ad77))
+
+- **main_app**: Center the application window on the screen
+  ([`96a52a0`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/96a52a0cb0fb248e83303ee89182fe4ebeb29e75))
+
+- **main_app**: Dock area from main app shares the workspace name with the CLI one to reuse the
+  profiles created in the cli companion window
+  ([`06745e0`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/06745e0511d3ad4e261119118c7767f92bd884a5))
+
+- **main_app**: Refactor main function and update script entry point in pyproject.toml
+  ([`7ccfcc9`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7ccfcc9f52c6ddaf65c350d474bac7260e3dd059))
+
+- **main_app**: Rpc access refined
+  ([`5bcf440`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5bcf440be7172f8c3cadc7cd1d95251c176d33d1))
+
+- **main_app**: Temporarily disable IDE view
+  ([`bfc9f19`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/bfc9f1947234b87835d2cde87f961a00b1a0990d))
+
+- **main_app**: The dock area view implemented as a viewBase
+  ([`ab9688d`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/ab9688d2b551e4b3525fe9aed76afd772b835b05))
+
+- **main_window**: Cleanup adjusted with shiboken6
+  ([`06cb187`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/06cb187d1a030e24d62c5a8e01978ba68f4812df))
+
+- **main_window**: Delete on close
+  ([`522934f`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/522934f8cd814c07fde8c62635f2f63ed716e00e))
+
+- **main_window**: Parent fixed for notification broker
+  ([`947bf63`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/947bf63e03b3cbdfe2fd8ab803c83175c7bc599b))
+
+- **main_window**: Removed general forced cleanup
+  ([`cab4227`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/cab422777c50151b94da71a45a9bda0e1ce2804d))
+
+- **main_window**: Safeguard of fetching the launcher from the main window if GUIServer is not
+  running
+  ([`f8be437`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/f8be43741a5c100a976d2f84c3dc7607938c847e))
+
+- **main_window**: Scan progress bar rpc not exposed
+  ([`04b448e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/04b448e1832796616002a1ea26028e3d42aca9b1))
+
+- **monaco dock**: Update last focused editor when closing
+  ([`3631fc2`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3631fc26499853015ff58283c2b8913aa9a36334))
+
+- **monaco widget**: Reset current_file
+  ([`c53d4c0`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/c53d4c0ad7b4c423eaa13828e2b38a04751f148e))
+
+- **monaco_dock**: Update editor metadata handling and improve open_file method
+  ([`3136477`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/31364772bd7fcccbc118061d0b601a9f1121bcb0))
+
+- **motor_map**: X/y motor are saved in properties
+  ([`96060fc`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/96060fca53f3426dbc43f1ae5d8ebdd7acc39100))
+
+- **ophyd-validation**: Add device_manager_ds argument if available for ophyd validation
+  ([`338ff45`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/338ff455cccfc1e8a3b0638fdcc4f1d807f0b6ca))
+
+- **positioner_box**: Layout HV centered and size taken from the ui file
+  ([`6113deb`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6113debc6c1d95a50b7522144fdc820380ae2e28))
+
+- **qt_ads**: Pythons stubs match structure of PySide6QtAds
+  ([`2f9d6d5`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/2f9d6d59eee32e373acc0df8a38b426d8142562b))
+
+- **rpc**: Rpc flags adjustment for MainApp and DeveloperWidget
+  ([`5b15c75`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5b15c75b88707f450bfa194d9eed3d726e101981))
+
+- **rpc_register**: Listing only valid connections
+  ([`38eb244`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/38eb2441cdf677939354c7066f854c22cf261932))
+
+- **rpc_server**: Add check for rpc_exposed to serialize_object
+  ([`0eabd0f`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/0eabd0f72be6247073382d0df02776d30c35a1aa))
+
+- **rpc_server**: Removed unused get _get_becwidget_ancestor
+  ([`047ff2b`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/047ff2bef77ca14f060b3b0bc21f78b880535faa))
+
+- **rpc_server**: Use single shot instead of processEvents to avoid dead locks
+  ([`84d6653`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/84d6653d1993dd4bebb98fcbf0d1a0dd94119502))
+
+- **scatter waveform**: Fix tab order for settings panel
+  ([`08e1985`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/08e19858eadb738358465c9f2a202529d1ccbe45))
+
+- **scatter_waveform**: Devices and entries saved as properties
+  ([`7ab8e0c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7ab8e0c2ed4f1b49e943f7ec64d3984ede6e134a))
+
+- **scatter_waveform**: Modernization of scatter waveform settings dialog
+  ([`dea73a9`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/dea73a97c9f78560e9f11290ba442152cc955057))
+
+- **scatter_waveform**: Remove curve_json from the properties
+  ([`f6712e8`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/f6712e8bb855566ca0f308ae3d5bf5109d98d792))
+
+- **screen_utils**: Screen utilities added and fixed sizing for widgets from launch window and main
+  app
+  ([`fb55e72`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/fb55e72713a2209575c555c9dd8c025a0349e795))
+
+- **server**: Gui server can reach shutdown, logic moved to becconnector
+  ([`0d05839`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/0d05839e9e3f4c61fc318aa44721436afcebf06f))
+
+- **signal-label**: Fix signal label cleanup, missing parent in constructors
+  ([`72639e7`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/72639e7e5fa01ceac6cc864c01cea73f4ddca441))
+
+- **signal_combo_box**: Get_signal_name added; remove duplicates from heatmap and scatter waveform
+  settings;
+  ([`66a9510`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/66a95102dd33dbac5575a3b0d99c4c99c42cce4a))
+
+- **signal_label**: Dispatcher unsubscribed in the cleanup
+  ([`90ba505`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/90ba505c10e7ee60d82abb578c7f691cf1125e9a))
+
+- **toggle**: Move toggle to theme colors
+  ([`375d131`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/375d131109d37ea7b49aa354b624b0dd8fea89ee))
+
+- **view**: Based on BECWidgets
+  ([`3d049d6`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3d049d67a9303b20862150b3622c4121d4a72b32))
+
+- **web_console**: Added startup kwarg
+  ([`55c8a57`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/55c8a57e71653299f3fd66ca7aafca8f32c7aacc))
+
+- **widget_state_manager**: Added shiboken check
+  ([`338b9e1`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/338b9e1aa7216d9d38449633fe9d4fffce13ee90))
+
+- **widget_state_manager**: Filtering of not wanted properties
+  ([`7ea4352`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7ea4352a09349e606c97edb72eccf6e683684cf8))
+
+- **widget_state_manager**: Properties_to_skip are not restored even if in ini file
+  ([`84c7360`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/84c7360bb8a63426d584a522d6a8969810536d2a))
+
+- **widget_state_manager**: State manager can save all properties recursively to already existing
+  settings
+  ([`98e2979`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/98e29792a2620a9e88c770cd69d7cad88cc94252))
+
+- **widgets**: Processevent removed from widgets using it
+  ([`a56bd57`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/a56bd572a000e47dd7d1d2a458dac676e67ec21e))
+
+- **widgets**: Removed isVisible from all SafeProperties
+  ([`b72bf4a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b72bf4a0f9a67c104cd86c66e9160ab9f0a40c01))
+
+### Build System
+
+- Pyside6-qtads; bec_qtheme V1; dependencies updated and adjusted
+  ([`562001c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/562001c08cdc3ca9fbe28aaed8b6a83921426f97))
+
+- **deps**: Update bec-qthemes requirement
+  ([`4a44ede`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4a44ede8fe02b4c513ec419f85cb447f58dfdf86))
+
+Updates the requirements on [bec-qthemes](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_qthemes) to permit the
+  latest version. - [Release notes](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_qthemes/releases) -
+  [Changelog](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_qthemes/blob/main/CHANGELOG.md) -
+  [Commits](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_qthemes/compare/v0.7.0...v1.3.3)
+
+--- updated-dependencies: - dependency-name: bec-qthemes dependency-version: 1.3.3
+
+dependency-type: direct:production ...
+
+Signed-off-by: dependabot[bot] <support@github.com>
+
+### Code Style
+
+- Wrap progress bar in widget to fix background
+  ([`793779d`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/793779db68c9725fae767d6cd0096c89a4caa700))
+
+### Continuous Integration
+
+- Add artifact upload
+  ([`d301fdf`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/d301fdfeb237acd61fd579a0e8147f2037df62d5))
+
+- Cancel previous CI run for PR or branch
+  ([`37298c2`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/37298c21c3b76667459f2a62453692e99ff8191e))
+
+- Install ttyd
+  ([`b6d70c3`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b6d70c34df29d2f44e7f5da88cb0daaef39ceed1))
+
+- Use shared issue sync action instead of local version
+  ([`c9a8e64`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/c9a8e64217d3c2047a4a8f5e2348c0a725a0066a))
+
+### Features
+
+- Add export and load settings methods to BECConnector; add SafeProperty safe getter flag
+  ([`5435fec`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5435fec68a11caa83e8566cde21ad382729e6792))
+
+- Add guided tour docs to device-manager-view
+  ([`fcb4306`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/fcb43066e4abe469e0f06163b4abcce6e0d9250b))
+
+- Add SafeConnect
+  ([`4b5a45c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4b5a45c320d701e6878d6af7259c530596118053))
+
+- Attach config cancellation to closeEvent
+  ([`c1443fa`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/c1443fa27afc63c69c4b56cf8be7eb2792704784))
+
+- Guided tour for main app
+  ([`3ffdf11`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3ffdf11c3e419d71e22c484c618eec51e9168f9d))
+
+- **actions**: Actions can be created with label text with beside or under alignment
+  ([`9c3a6e1`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/9c3a6e1691fd02230651a4d871911f365d4a3129))
+
+- **ads**: Add pyi stub file to provide type hints for ads
+  ([`4c4fc25`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4c4fc25a42be9bc8ecce6f550c4f357372233289))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Added ads based dock area with profiles
+  ([`d25314e`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/d25314e6eeb6323a6ffcde3c119f7b1bc0ebed16))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Created DockAreaWidget base class; profile management through namespaces;
+  dock area variants
+  ([`58b88ef`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/58b88efcb66627f9e9c3c9de65366d55465e1e44))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Floating docks restore with relative geometry
+  ([`440cecd`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/440cecddf740a5f320f53771b93a148fb3be544b))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Instance lock for multiple ads in same session
+  ([`bcaf013`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/bcaf013d2b5b45830cc37079b7d0f388ead98bc1))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Ui/ux for profile management improved, saving directories logic adjusted
+  ([`7305498`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/730549847563b552887a5529b2b0fed308ed8b98))
+
+- **bec-login**: Add login widget in material design style
+  ([`b798ea2`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b798ea2340a6aa8c0325a1cd1995eba028279816))
+
+- **bec_widget**: Attach/detach method for all widgets + client regenerated
+  ([`82dbf31`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/82dbf31da54288b7228bc5c7bdc271a8178f8d02))
+
+- **bec_widget**: Save screenshot to bytes
+  ([`ed2651a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/ed2651a914a283dc7cc45a9bf185d2a4e053d307))
+
+- **becconnector**: Added rpc_passthrough_children flag in addition to rpc_exposed
+  ([`010373f`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/010373fd5b334c6616efce467608356b36c2130b))
+
+- **becconnector**: Exposed rpc flag added to the BECConnector
+  ([`de6c628`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/de6c6284ad6d73b40137e9bba56e748c59a4ade9))
+
+- **busy_loader**: Busy loader added to bec widget base class
+  ([`92c15a7`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/92c15a7f829fa3f0b69cf5584ac45a21dce0b01d))
+
+- **client_utils**: Theme can be changed from the CLI
+  ([`c1d4758`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/c1d4758e4ca33d094fabdfbd4e024a2836f2fa9a))
+
+- **color**: Add relative luminance calculation
+  ([`a84b924`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/a84b924162280fc6b6ca31af511b78c4f5baafc9))
+
+- **developer_view**: Add developer view
+  ([`bdef594`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/bdef594b5885b5fab60ef94addbce1ab771c4244))
+
+- **developer_widget**: Add signal connection for focused editor changes to disable run button for
+  macro files
+  ([`fa79179`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/fa79179f89f048aeee0a3947350f3a7bc2169d9f))
+
+- **device-initialization-progress-bar**: Add progress bar for device initialization
+  ([`5deafb9`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5deafb97979eb1a2e8bcba3321dfd1a15553a5da))
+
+- **device-manager**: Add DeviceManager Widget for BEC Widget main applications
+  ([`a6357af`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/a6357af8ffda640eaee1c1c75c3a4bdf0c5de068))
+
+- **device_combobox**: Device filter added based on its signal classes
+  ([`fbddf4a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/fbddf4a28442dab6e9e4585aa0c3a0131d6bdf7b))
+
+- **dm-view**: Initial device manager view added
+  ([`9e4be38`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/9e4be38c0b8b6e654313bf232a597d09978d2436))
+
+- **generate_cli**: Rpc API from content widget can be merged with the RPC API of the container
+  widget statically
+  ([`758956b`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/758956be098d6629a0cd641b1525965ebfe19345))
+
+- **guided_tour**: Add guided tour
+  ([`9b753c1`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/9b753c1f24419292790ca60e4bd55bb1aa5e1a70))
+
+- **help-inspector**: Add help inspector widget
+  ([`5ac629d`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5ac629de8c7bbdf0e2c07c9a7cf25e430cd031c1))
+
+- **image**: Modernization of image widget
+  ([`80c0dfa`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/80c0dfa4f28e3eb2c6f944a517c92f822f51266d))
+
+- **jupyter_console_window**: Adjustment for general usage
+  ([`66f3e51`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/66f3e517f0fb8fa1ea678ec09ef852d5b8a63d51))
+
+- **main_app**: Main app with interactive app switcher
+  ([`b30e1e4`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b30e1e4c5e182903721fe7c16a8069f2c95704d3))
+
+- **motor_map**: Motor selection adopted to splitter action
+  ([`168bb3c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/168bb3cb77ca3a270a958f4f941445383c8bec99))
+
+- **plot_base**: Plot_base, image and heatmap widget adopted to property-toolbar sync
+  ([`dd69578`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/dd69578b912b44130d33427fa8d5d948889e8c07))
+
+- **SafeProperty**: Safeproperty emits property_changed signal
+  ([`7cce3bd`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/7cce3bd54210f82a5cf68e6219ea073e972234d6))
+
+- **signal_combobox**: Extended that can filter by signal class and dimension of the signal
+  ([`cfd6bde`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/cfd6bde268cea5bd119354db8b6ab1661b575293))
+
+- **toolbar**: Splitter action added
+  ([`0752f3d`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/0752f3d6a9cd9b080bf87464eac9eb05f99f108f))
+
+- **toolbar**: Toolbar can be synced with the property_changed for toggle actions
+  ([`4357d98`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4357d984c8f89fa51bc0c8d9a217b2a2028e3ca9))
+
+- **web console**: Add support for shared web console sessions
+  ([`5e111cf`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5e111cfc54f2771a0ff5080a77bb4ac5b491bc8f))
+
+- **widget_hierarchy_tree**: Widget displaying parent child hierarchy from the app widgets
+  ([`5f46fa0`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5f46fa09943017fdadbe12522b38a2733d5b6001))
+
+- **widget_highlighter**: Reusable separate widget highlighter
+  ([`8b782ac`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/8b782ac302b4ccbfe768c066c3c9fbe31fdace75))
+
+- **widget_io**: Widget hierarchy can grap all bec connectors from the widget recursively
+  ([`db83576`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/db83576346980eef59b5366bc07258edcbf6333b))
+
+### Performance Improvements
+
+- **heatmap**: Thread worker optimization
+  ([`f98a5de`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/f98a5de7e9f154e6e9fc65a257776c9dec74eb84))
+
+### Refactoring
+
+- Add extra tour steps, add enter button
+  ([`2826919`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/2826919c5a330e2ba9666cfec1f9561b4cfd4bcf))
+
+- Global refactoring to use device-signal pair names
+  ([`b93fbc5`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/b93fbc5cd31dbaa1bf4b18b9d30e3463ea539f72))
+
+- Improvements to enum access
+  ([`19b7310`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/19b73104337a100cef39936dd7ec5c32c346f99b))
+
+- **advanced_dock_area**: Change remove_widget to delete
+  ([`eda30e3`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/eda30e31396ec1e34c13be047564de334d9a5c6f))
+
+- **bec_main_window**: Main app theme renamed to View
+  ([`37bfad7`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/37bfad7174982f7c3489e38cf715615719b34862))
+
+- **busy-loader**: Refactor busy loader to use custom widget
+  ([`332ca20`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/332ca205c12c445513472a25366699e870e5a879))
+
+- **busy-loager**: Improve eventFilter to avoid crashs if target or overlay is None.
+  ([`229da62`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/229da6244ae2bb2521ff0257db1772e5cceeee59))
+
+- **developer_view**: Changed to use DockAreaWidget
+  ([`4d40918`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4d40918b7c84c833d46287fec365d1810683adec))
+
+- **developer_widget**: Enhance documentation and add missing imports
+  ([`5e0c376`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/5e0c3767742bcac8b39972d0972db0580c1863cd))
+
+- **device-form-dialog**: Use native QDialogButtonBox instead of GroupBox layout
+  ([`12b4d3a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/12b4d3a9e0ffe0539d5884bbedf4f14349a5e117))
+
+- **dock_area**: Change name to BECDockArea
+  ([`71ed2d3`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/71ed2d353acc0e68eaef1fa55474db0b8e1f1eb9))
+
+- **guided-tour**: Add support for QTableWidgetItem
+  ([`83489b7`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/83489b7519f41b75f2d3f2cdcf31b0075e41d52d))
+
+- **main_app**: Adapted for DockAreaWidget changes
+  ([`ac850ec`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/ac850ec650695c12a77e0e8e598094d740312a89))
+
+- **main_app**: Simpler id and object name management
+  ([`654aeb7`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/654aeb711626f0f85d288cd3c0a85d69ad2826d8))
+
+- **monaco_dock**: Changed to use DockAreaWidget
+  ([`ed0d34a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/ed0d34a60f8348a970da71d77801154ea70c24c6))
+
+- **ophyd-validation**: Allow option to keep device visible after successful validation
+  ([`89d5c5a`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/89d5c5abdb0081e29d2c31ae6ded75a3f9abe0ff))
+
+- **widget_io**: Hierarchy logic generalized
+  ([`00bf01c`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/00bf01c1290c4ead6d8270942fbfda2cbd7e9873))
+
+### Testing
+
+- Fix test
+  ([`de835e8`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/de835e81d8cf0ec6d3bca9d07ac21d4737666e31))
+
+- **config-communicator**: Add test for cancel action
+  ([`24701c2`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/24701c2a270520de739e4615d0f52a6386bbadc0))
+
+- **device-form-dialog**: Adapt tests
+  ([`f827e77`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/f827e77e870109b21e10b4cc28d6c09b8f77b2a6))
+
+- **device-manager**: Use mocked client for tests
+  ([`836fedd`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/836fedd50e4fdb66bd7614a55c8e0f95a14c3fac))
+
+- **device-manager-view**: Improve test coverage for device-manager-view
+  ([`4edc571`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/4edc57158be30d2500ad04d1b015bc8627cfb873))
+
+- **e2e**: Raise with widget name
+  ([`3f76ade`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/3f76ade6289a75b76d7a5f67e9d72175378bedbe))
+
+- **script_tree**: Improve hover event handling with waitUntil
+  ([`6296055`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/6296055c664070b8caeffda3c7047774bd692691))
+
+- **widget_io**: Add dedicated unit tests for iter_widget_tree and helper methods
+  ([`041afc6`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/041afc68b1c7202a4609149e6f0e212fca629c87))
+
+Co-authored-by: wyzula-jan <133381102+wyzula-jan@users.noreply.github.com>
+
+
+## v2.45.14 (2026-01-23)
+
+### Bug Fixes
+
+- **bec_status**: Adjust bec status widget to info and version signature
+  ([`709ffd6`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/709ffd6927dceb903cbd0797fc162e56aef378c1))
+
+### Continuous Integration
+
+- Use auth.token instead of login_or_token
+  ([`0349c87`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/0349c872612ab0506e5662b813e78200a76d7590))
+
+### Testing
+
+- **device config**: Validate against pydantic
+  ([`de8fe3b`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/de8fe3b5f503ace17b0064d2ce9f54662b0fb77e))
+
+- **scan control**: Avoid strict length comparisons
+  ([`d577fac`](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/commit/d577fac02fed11b2b1c44704c04fd111c2fed1d3))
+
+
 ## v2.45.13 (2025-12-17)
 
 ### Bug Fixes

bec_widgets/applications/bw_launch.py

@@ -1,45 +1,42 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
+from typing import Literal
+
 from bec_lib import bec_logger
 
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.advanced_dock_area import AdvancedDockArea
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.auto_update.auto_updates import AutoUpdates
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.dock_area import BECDockArea
 
 logger = bec_logger.logger
 
 
 def dock_area(
-    object_name: str | None = None, profile: str | None = None, start_empty: bool = False
-) -> AdvancedDockArea:
+    object_name: str | None = None, startup_profile: str | Literal["restore", "skip"] | None = None
+) -> BECDockArea:
     """
     Create an advanced dock area using Qt Advanced Docking System.
 
     Args:
         object_name(str): The name of the advanced dock area.
-        profile(str|None): Optional profile to load; if None the "general" profile is used.
-        start_empty(bool): If True, start with an empty dock area when loading specified profile.
+        startup_profile(str | Literal["restore", "skip"] | None): Startup mode for
+            the workspace:
+              - None: start empty
+              - "restore": restore last used profile
+              - "skip": do not initialize profile state
+              - "<name>": load specific profile
 
     Returns:
-        AdvancedDockArea: The created advanced dock area.
+        BECDockArea: The created advanced dock area.
 
-    Note:
-        The "general" profile is mandatory and will always exist. If manually deleted,
-        it will be automatically recreated.
     """
-    # Default to "general" profile when called from CLI without specifying a profile
-    effective_profile = profile if profile is not None else "general"
 
-    widget = AdvancedDockArea(
+    widget = BECDockArea(
         object_name=object_name,
-        restore_initial_profile=True,
         root_widget=True,
         profile_namespace="bec",
-        init_profile=effective_profile,
-        start_empty=start_empty,
-    )
-    logger.info(
-        f"Created advanced dock area with profile: {effective_profile}, start_empty: {start_empty}"
+        startup_profile=startup_profile,
     )
+    logger.info(f"Created advanced dock area with startup_profile: {startup_profile}")
     return widget
 
 
@@ -51,7 +48,7 @@ def auto_update_dock_area(object_name: str | None = None) -> AutoUpdates:
         object_name(str): The name of the dock area.
 
     Returns:
-        AdvancedDockArea: The created dock area.
+        BECDockArea: The created dock area.
     """
     _auto_update = AutoUpdates(object_name=object_name)
     return _auto_update

bec_widgets/applications/launch_window.py

@@ -27,14 +27,12 @@ from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
 from bec_widgets.utils.name_utils import pascal_to_snake
 from bec_widgets.utils.plugin_utils import get_plugin_auto_updates
 from bec_widgets.utils.round_frame import RoundedFrame
+from bec_widgets.utils.screen_utils import apply_window_geometry, centered_geometry_for_app
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.toolbar import ModularToolBar
 from bec_widgets.utils.ui_loader import UILoader
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.advanced_dock_area import AdvancedDockArea
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.profile_utils import (
-    get_last_profile,
-    list_profiles,
-)
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.auto_update.auto_updates import AutoUpdates
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.dock_area import BECDockArea
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.profile_utils import get_last_profile, list_profiles
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindow, BECMainWindowNoRPC
 from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.visual.dark_mode_button.dark_mode_button import DarkModeButton
 
@@ -45,6 +43,7 @@ if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
 
 logger = bec_logger.logger
 MODULE_PATH = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
+START_EMPTY_PROFILE_OPTION = "Start Empty (No Profile)"
 
 
 class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
@@ -78,23 +77,28 @@ class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
             circular_pixmap.fill(Qt.transparent)
 
             painter = QPainter(circular_pixmap)
-            painter.setRenderHints(QPainter.Antialiasing, True)
+            painter.setRenderHints(QPainter.RenderHint.Antialiasing, True)
             path = QPainterPath()
             path.addEllipse(0, 0, size, size)
             painter.setClipPath(path)
-            pixmap = pixmap.scaled(size, size, Qt.KeepAspectRatio, Qt.SmoothTransformation)
+            pixmap = pixmap.scaled(
+                size,
+                size,
+                Qt.AspectRatioMode.KeepAspectRatio,
+                Qt.TransformationMode.SmoothTransformation,
+            )
             painter.drawPixmap(0, 0, pixmap)
             painter.end()
 
             self.icon_label.setPixmap(circular_pixmap)
-        self.layout.addWidget(self.icon_label, alignment=Qt.AlignCenter)
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.icon_label, alignment=Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignCenter)
 
         # Top label
         self.top_label = QLabel(top_label.upper())
         font_top = self.top_label.font()
         font_top.setPointSize(10)
         self.top_label.setFont(font_top)
-        self.layout.addWidget(self.top_label, alignment=Qt.AlignCenter)
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.top_label, alignment=Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignCenter)
 
         # Main label
         self.main_label = QLabel(main_label)
@@ -104,7 +108,7 @@ class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
         font_main.setPointSize(14)
         font_main.setBold(True)
         self.main_label.setFont(font_main)
-        self.main_label.setAlignment(Qt.AlignCenter)
+        self.main_label.setAlignment(Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignCenter)
 
         # Shrink font if the default would wrap on this platform / DPI
         content_width = (
@@ -120,13 +124,13 @@ class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
 
         self.layout.addWidget(self.main_label)
 
-        self.spacer_top = QSpacerItem(0, 10, QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Fixed)
+        self.spacer_top = QSpacerItem(0, 10, QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed)
         self.layout.addItem(self.spacer_top)
 
         # Description
         self.description_label = QLabel(description)
         self.description_label.setWordWrap(True)
-        self.description_label.setAlignment(Qt.AlignCenter)
+        self.description_label.setAlignment(Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignCenter)
         self.layout.addWidget(self.description_label)
 
         # Selector
@@ -136,13 +140,14 @@ class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
         else:
             self.selector = None
 
-        self.spacer_bottom = QSpacerItem(0, 0, QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+        self.spacer_bottom = QSpacerItem(
+            0, 0, QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Policy.Expanding
+        )
         self.layout.addItem(self.spacer_bottom)
 
         # Action button
         self.action_button = QPushButton("Open")
-        self.action_button.setStyleSheet(
-            """
+        self.action_button.setStyleSheet("""
         QPushButton {
             background-color: #007AFF;
             border: none;
@@ -154,9 +159,8 @@ class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
         QPushButton:hover {
             background-color: #005BB5;
         }
-        """
-        )
-        self.layout.addWidget(self.action_button, alignment=Qt.AlignCenter)
+        """)
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.action_button, alignment=Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignCenter)
 
     def _fit_label_to_width(self, label: QLabel, max_width: int, min_pt: int = 10):
         """
@@ -179,12 +183,14 @@ class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
         metrics = QFontMetrics(font)
         label.setFont(font)
         label.setWordWrap(False)
-        label.setText(metrics.elidedText(label.text(), Qt.ElideRight, max_width))
+        label.setText(metrics.elidedText(label.text(), Qt.TextElideMode.ElideRight, max_width))
 
 
 class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
     RPC = True
+    PLUGIN = False
     TILE_SIZE = (250, 300)
+    DEFAULT_LAUNCH_SIZE = (800, 600)
     USER_ACCESS = ["show_launcher", "hide_launcher"]
 
     def __init__(
@@ -209,7 +215,7 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
         self.toolbar = ModularToolBar(parent=self)
         self.addToolBar(Qt.TopToolBarArea, self.toolbar)
         self.spacer = QWidget(self)
-        self.spacer.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+        self.spacer.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Policy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Policy.Expanding)
         self.toolbar.addWidget(self.spacer)
         self.toolbar.addWidget(self.dark_mode_button)
 
@@ -318,7 +324,7 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
         )
         tile.setFixedWidth(self.TILE_SIZE[0])
         tile.setMinimumHeight(self.TILE_SIZE[1])
-        tile.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.MinimumExpanding)
+        tile.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Policy.MinimumExpanding)
         if action_button:
             tile.action_button.clicked.connect(action_button)
         if show_selector and selector_items:
@@ -347,7 +353,7 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
     def _refresh_dock_area_profiles(self, preserve_selection: bool = True) -> None:
         """
         Refresh the dock-area profile selector, optionally preserving the selection.
-        Sets the combobox to the last used profile or "general" if no selection preserved.
+        Defaults to Start Empty when no valid selection can be preserved.
 
         Args:
             preserve_selection(bool): Whether to preserve the current selection or not.
@@ -362,9 +368,10 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
         )
 
         profiles = list_profiles("bec")
+        selector_items = [START_EMPTY_PROFILE_OPTION, *profiles]
         selector.blockSignals(True)
         selector.clear()
-        for profile in profiles:
+        for profile in selector_items:
             selector.addItem(profile)
 
         if selected_text:
@@ -373,21 +380,31 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
             if idx >= 0:
                 selector.setCurrentIndex(idx)
             else:
-                # Selection no longer exists, fall back to last profile or "general"
+                # Selection no longer exists, fall back to default startup selection.
                 self._set_selector_to_default_profile(selector, profiles)
         else:
-            # No selection to preserve, use last profile or "general"
+            # No selection to preserve, use default startup selection.
             self._set_selector_to_default_profile(selector, profiles)
         selector.blockSignals(False)
 
     def _set_selector_to_default_profile(self, selector: QComboBox, profiles: list[str]) -> None:
         """
-        Set the selector to the last used profile or "general" as fallback.
+        Set the selector default.
+
+        Preference order:
+            1) Start Empty option (if available)
+            2) Last used profile
+            3) First available profile
 
         Args:
             selector(QComboBox): The combobox to set.
             profiles(list[str]): List of available profiles.
         """
+        start_empty_idx = selector.findText(START_EMPTY_PROFILE_OPTION, Qt.MatchFlag.MatchExactly)
+        if start_empty_idx >= 0:
+            selector.setCurrentIndex(start_empty_idx)
+            return
+
         # Try to get last used profile
         last_profile = get_last_profile(namespace="bec")
         if last_profile and last_profile in profiles:
@@ -396,13 +413,6 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
                 selector.setCurrentIndex(idx)
                 return
 
-        # Fall back to "general" profile
-        if "general" in profiles:
-            idx = selector.findText("general", Qt.MatchFlag.MatchExactly)
-            if idx >= 0:
-                selector.setCurrentIndex(idx)
-                return
-
         # If nothing else, select first item
         if selector.count() > 0:
             selector.setCurrentIndex(0)
@@ -428,7 +438,9 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
         from bec_widgets.applications import bw_launch
 
         with RPCRegister.delayed_broadcast() as rpc_register:
-            existing_dock_areas = rpc_register.get_names_of_rpc_by_class_type(AdvancedDockArea)
+            if geometry is None and launch_script != "custom_ui_file":
+                geometry = self._default_launch_geometry()
+            existing_dock_areas = rpc_register.get_names_of_rpc_by_class_type(BECDockArea)
             if name is not None:
                 WidgetContainerUtils.raise_for_invalid_name(name)
                 # If name already exists, generate a unique one with counter suffix
@@ -451,13 +463,13 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
 
             if launch_script == "auto_update":
                 auto_update = kwargs.pop("auto_update", None)
-                return self._launch_auto_update(auto_update)
+                return self._launch_auto_update(auto_update, geometry=geometry)
 
             if launch_script == "widget":
                 widget = kwargs.pop("widget", None)
                 if widget is None:
                     raise ValueError("Widget name must be provided.")
-                return self._launch_widget(widget)
+                return self._launch_widget(widget, geometry=geometry)
 
             launch = getattr(bw_launch, launch_script, None)
             if launch is None:
@@ -469,13 +481,13 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
             logger.info(f"Created new dock area: {name}")
 
             if isinstance(result_widget, BECMainWindow):
-                self._apply_window_geometry(result_widget, geometry)
+                apply_window_geometry(result_widget, geometry)
                 result_widget.show()
             else:
                 window = BECMainWindowNoRPC()
                 window.setCentralWidget(result_widget)
                 window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {result_widget.objectName()}")
-                self._apply_window_geometry(window, geometry)
+                apply_window_geometry(window, geometry)
                 window.show()
             return result_widget
 
@@ -511,12 +523,14 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
             window.setCentralWidget(loaded)
 
         window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {filename}")
-        self._apply_window_geometry(window, None)
+        apply_window_geometry(window, None)
         window.show()
         logger.info(f"Launched custom UI: {filename}, type: {type(window).__name__}")
         return window
 
-    def _launch_auto_update(self, auto_update: str) -> AutoUpdates:
+    def _launch_auto_update(
+        self, auto_update: str, geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None = None
+    ) -> AutoUpdates:
         if auto_update in self.available_auto_updates:
             auto_update_cls = self.available_auto_updates[auto_update]
             window = auto_update_cls()
@@ -527,11 +541,13 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
 
         window.resize(window.minimumSizeHint())
         window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {window.objectName()}")
-        self._apply_window_geometry(window, None)
+        apply_window_geometry(window, geometry)
         window.show()
         return window
 
-    def _launch_widget(self, widget: type[BECWidget]) -> QWidget:
+    def _launch_widget(
+        self, widget: type[BECWidget], geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None = None
+    ) -> QWidget:
         name = pascal_to_snake(widget.__name__)
 
         WidgetContainerUtils.raise_for_invalid_name(name)
@@ -544,7 +560,7 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
         window.setCentralWidget(widget_instance)
         window.resize(window.minimumSizeHint())
         window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {widget_instance.objectName()}")
-        self._apply_window_geometry(window, None)
+        apply_window_geometry(window, geometry)
         window.show()
         return window
 
@@ -575,11 +591,14 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
         """
         tile = self.tiles.get("dock_area")
         if tile is None or tile.selector is None:
-            profile = None
+            startup_profile = None
         else:
             selection = tile.selector.currentText().strip()
-            profile = selection if selection else None
-        return self.launch("dock_area", profile=profile)
+            if selection == START_EMPTY_PROFILE_OPTION:
+                startup_profile = None
+            else:
+                startup_profile = selection if selection else None
+        return self.launch("dock_area", startup_profile=startup_profile)
 
     def _open_widget(self):
         """
@@ -592,30 +611,9 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
             raise ValueError(f"Widget {widget} not found in available widgets.")
         return self.launch("widget", widget=self.available_widgets[widget])
 
-    def _apply_window_geometry(
-        self, window: QWidget, geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None
-    ) -> None:
-        """Apply a provided geometry or center the window with an 80% layout."""
-        if geometry is not None:
-            window.setGeometry(*geometry)
-            return
-        default_geometry = self._default_window_geometry(window)
-        if default_geometry is not None:
-            window.setGeometry(*default_geometry)
-        else:
-            window.resize(window.minimumSizeHint())
-
-    @staticmethod
-    def _default_window_geometry(window: QWidget) -> tuple[int, int, int, int] | None:
-        screen = window.screen() or QApplication.primaryScreen()
-        if screen is None:
-            return None
-        available = screen.availableGeometry()
-        width = int(available.width() * 0.8)
-        height = int(available.height() * 0.8)
-        x = available.x() + (available.width() - width) // 2
-        y = available.y() + (available.height() - height) // 2
-        return x, y, width, height
+    def _default_launch_geometry(self) -> tuple[int, int, int, int] | None:
+        width, height = self.DEFAULT_LAUNCH_SIZE
+        return centered_geometry_for_app(width=width, height=height)
 
     @SafeSlot(popup_error=True)
     def _open_custom_ui_file(self):
@@ -706,7 +704,7 @@ class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
         self.hide()
 
 
-if __name__ == "__main__":
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     import sys
 
     from bec_widgets.utils.colors import apply_theme

bec_widgets/applications/main_app.py

@@ -1,3 +1,5 @@
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
+from qtpy.QtGui import QAction  # type: ignore
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication, QHBoxLayout, QStackedWidget, QWidget
 
 from bec_widgets.applications.navigation_centre.reveal_animator import ANIMATION_DURATION
@@ -5,13 +7,22 @@ from bec_widgets.applications.navigation_centre.side_bar import SideBar
 from bec_widgets.applications.navigation_centre.side_bar_components import NavigationItem
 from bec_widgets.applications.views.developer_view.developer_view import DeveloperView
 from bec_widgets.applications.views.device_manager_view.device_manager_view import DeviceManagerView
+from bec_widgets.applications.views.dock_area_view.dock_area_view import DockAreaView
 from bec_widgets.applications.views.view import ViewBase, WaveformViewInline, WaveformViewPopup
 from bec_widgets.utils.colors import apply_theme
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.advanced_dock_area import AdvancedDockArea
+from bec_widgets.utils.guided_tour import GuidedTour
+from bec_widgets.utils.name_utils import sanitize_namespace
+from bec_widgets.utils.screen_utils import (
+    apply_centered_size,
+    available_screen_geometry,
+    main_app_size_for_screen,
+)
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindow
 
 
 class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
+    RPC = False
+    PLUGIN = False
 
     def __init__(
         self,
@@ -43,51 +54,49 @@ class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
 
         self._add_views()
 
+        # Initialize guided tour
+        self.guided_tour = GuidedTour(self)
+        self._setup_guided_tour()
+
     def _add_views(self):
         self.add_section("BEC Applications", "bec_apps")
-        self.ads = AdvancedDockArea(self, profile_namespace="bec", auto_profile_namespace=False)
-        self.ads.setObjectName("MainWorkspace")
+        self.dock_area = DockAreaView(self)
         self.device_manager = DeviceManagerView(self)
-        self.developer_view = DeveloperView(self)
-
-        self.add_view(
-            icon="widgets", title="Dock Area", id="dock_area", widget=self.ads, mini_text="Docks"
-        )
+        # self.developer_view = DeveloperView(self) #TODO temporary disable until the bugs with BECShell are resolved
+        self.add_view(icon="widgets", title="Dock Area", widget=self.dock_area, mini_text="Docks")
         self.add_view(
             icon="display_settings",
             title="Device Manager",
-            id="device_manager",
             widget=self.device_manager,
             mini_text="DM",
         )
-        self.add_view(
-            icon="code_blocks",
-            title="IDE",
-            widget=self.developer_view,
-            id="developer_view",
-            exclusive=True,
-        )
+        # TODO temporary disable until the bugs with BECShell are resolved
+        # self.add_view(
+        #     icon="code_blocks",
+        #     title="IDE",
+        #     widget=self.developer_view,
+        #     mini_text="IDE",
+        #     exclusive=True,
+        # )
 
         if self._show_examples:
             self.add_section("Examples", "examples")
             waveform_view_popup = WaveformViewPopup(
-                parent=self, id="waveform_view_popup", title="Waveform Plot"
+                parent=self, view_id="waveform_view_popup", title="Waveform Plot"
             )
             waveform_view_stack = WaveformViewInline(
-                parent=self, id="waveform_view_stack", title="Waveform Plot"
+                parent=self, view_id="waveform_view_stack", title="Waveform Plot"
             )
 
             self.add_view(
                 icon="show_chart",
                 title="Waveform With Popup",
-                id="waveform_popup",
                 widget=waveform_view_popup,
                 mini_text="Popup",
             )
             self.add_view(
                 icon="show_chart",
                 title="Waveform InLine Stack",
-                id="waveform_stack",
                 widget=waveform_view_stack,
                 mini_text="Stack",
             )
@@ -95,6 +104,9 @@ class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
         self.set_current("dock_area")
         self.sidebar.add_dark_mode_item()
 
+        # Add guided tour to Help menu
+        self._add_guided_tour_to_menu()
+
     # --- Public API ------------------------------------------------------
     def add_section(self, title: str, id: str, position: int | None = None):
         return self.sidebar.add_section(title, id, position)
@@ -110,7 +122,7 @@ class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
         *,
         icon: str,
         title: str,
-        id: str,
+        view_id: str | None = None,
         widget: QWidget,
         mini_text: str | None = None,
         position: int | None = None,
@@ -124,7 +136,8 @@ class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
         Args:
             icon(str): Icon name for the nav item.
             title(str): Title for the nav item.
-            id(str): Unique ID for the view/item.
+            view_id(str, optional): Unique ID for the view/item. If omitted, uses mini_text;
+                if mini_text is also omitted, uses title.
             widget(QWidget): The widget to add to the stack.
             mini_text(str, optional): Short text for the nav item when sidebar is collapsed.
             position(int, optional): Position to insert the nav item.
@@ -137,10 +150,11 @@ class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
 
 
         """
+        resolved_id = sanitize_namespace(view_id or mini_text or title)
         item = self.sidebar.add_item(
             icon=icon,
             title=title,
-            id=id,
+            id=resolved_id,
             mini_text=mini_text,
             position=position,
             from_top=from_top,
@@ -150,13 +164,15 @@ class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
         # Wrap plain widgets into a ViewBase so enter/exit hooks are available
         if isinstance(widget, ViewBase):
             view_widget = widget
-            view_widget.view_id = id
+            view_widget.view_id = resolved_id
             view_widget.view_title = title
         else:
-            view_widget = ViewBase(content=widget, parent=self, id=id, title=title)
+            view_widget = ViewBase(content=widget, parent=self, view_id=resolved_id, title=title)
+
+        view_widget.change_object_name(resolved_id)
 
         idx = self.stack.addWidget(view_widget)
-        self._view_index[id] = idx
+        self._view_index[resolved_id] = idx
         return item
 
     def set_current(self, id: str) -> None:
@@ -190,6 +206,160 @@ class BECMainApp(BECMainWindow):
         if hasattr(new_view, "on_enter"):
             new_view.on_enter()
 
+    def _setup_guided_tour(self):
+        """
+        Setup the guided tour for the main application.
+        Registers key UI components and delegates to views for their internal components.
+        """
+        tour_steps = []
+
+        # --- General Layout Components ---
+
+        # Register the sidebar toggle button
+        toggle_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=self.sidebar.toggle,
+            title="Sidebar Toggle",
+            text="Click this button to expand or collapse the sidebar. When expanded, you can see full navigation item titles and section names.",
+        )
+        tour_steps.append(toggle_step)
+
+        # Register the sidebar icons
+        sidebar_dock_area = self.sidebar.components.get("dock_area")
+        if sidebar_dock_area:
+            dock_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=sidebar_dock_area,
+                title="Dock Area View",
+                text="Click here to access the Dock Area view, where you can manage and arrange your dockable panels.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(dock_step)
+
+        sidebar_device_manager = self.sidebar.components.get("device_manager")
+        if sidebar_device_manager:
+            device_manager_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=sidebar_device_manager,
+                title="Device Manager View",
+                text="Click here to open the Device Manager view, where you can view and manage device configs.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(device_manager_step)
+
+        sidebar_developer_view = self.sidebar.components.get("developer_view")
+        if sidebar_developer_view:
+            developer_view_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=sidebar_developer_view,
+                title="Developer View",
+                text="Click here to access the Developer view to write scripts and makros.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(developer_view_step)
+
+        # Register the dark mode toggle
+        dark_mode_item = self.sidebar.components.get("dark_mode")
+        if dark_mode_item:
+            dark_mode_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=dark_mode_item,
+                title="Theme Toggle",
+                text="Switch between light and dark themes. The theme preference is saved and will be applied when you restart the application.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(dark_mode_step)
+
+        # Register the client info label
+        if hasattr(self, "_client_info_hover"):
+            client_info_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=self._client_info_hover,
+                title="Client Status",
+                text="Displays status messages and information from the BEC Server.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(client_info_step)
+
+        # Register the scan progress bar if available
+        if hasattr(self, "_scan_progress_hover"):
+            progress_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=self._scan_progress_hover,
+                title="Scan Progress",
+                text="Monitor the progress of ongoing scans. Hover over the progress bar to see detailed information including elapsed time and estimated completion.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(progress_step)
+
+        # Register the notification indicator in the status bar
+        if hasattr(self, "notification_indicator"):
+            notif_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=self.notification_indicator,
+                title="Notification Center",
+                text="View system notifications, errors, and status updates. Click to filter notifications by type or expand to see all details.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(notif_step)
+
+        # --- View-Specific Components ---
+
+        # Register all views that can extend the tour
+        for view_id, view_index in self._view_index.items():
+            view_widget = self.stack.widget(view_index)
+            if not view_widget or not hasattr(view_widget, "register_tour_steps"):
+                continue
+
+            # Get the view's tour steps
+            view_tour = view_widget.register_tour_steps(self.guided_tour, self)
+            if view_tour is None:
+                if hasattr(view_widget.content, "register_tour_steps"):
+                    view_tour = view_widget.content.register_tour_steps(self.guided_tour, self)
+                if view_tour is None:
+                    continue
+
+            # Get the corresponding sidebar navigation item
+            nav_item = self.sidebar.components.get(view_id)
+            if not nav_item:
+                continue
+
+            # Use the view's title for the navigation button
+            nav_step = self.guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=nav_item,
+                title=view_tour.view_title,
+                text=f"Let's explore the features of the {view_tour.view_title}.",
+            )
+            tour_steps.append(nav_step)
+            tour_steps.extend(view_tour.step_ids)
+
+        # Create the tour with all registered steps
+        if tour_steps:
+            self.guided_tour.create_tour(tour_steps)
+
+    def start_guided_tour(self):
+        """
+        Public method to start the guided tour.
+        This can be called programmatically or connected to a menu/button action.
+        """
+        self.guided_tour.start_tour()
+
+    def _add_guided_tour_to_menu(self):
+        """
+        Add a 'Guided Tour' action to the Help menu.
+        """
+
+        # Find the Help menu
+        menu_bar = self.menuBar()
+        help_menu = None
+        for action in menu_bar.actions():
+            if action.text() == "Help":
+                help_menu = action.menu()
+                break
+
+        if help_menu:
+            # Add separator before the tour action
+            help_menu.addSeparator()
+
+            # Create and add the guided tour action
+            tour_action = QAction("Start Guided Tour", self)
+            tour_action.setIcon(material_icon("help"))
+            tour_action.triggered.connect(self.start_guided_tour)
+            tour_action.setShortcut("F1")  # Add keyboard shortcut
+            help_menu.addAction(tour_action)
+
+    def cleanup(self):
+        for view_id, idx in self._view_index.items():
+            view = self.stack.widget(idx)
+            view.close()
+            view.deleteLater()
+        super().cleanup()
+
 
 def main():  # pragma: no cover
     """
@@ -211,25 +381,12 @@ def main():  # pragma: no cover
     apply_theme("dark")
     w = BECMainApp(show_examples=args.examples)
 
-    screen = app.primaryScreen()
-    screen_geometry = screen.availableGeometry()
-    screen_width = screen_geometry.width()
-    screen_height = screen_geometry.height()
-    # 70% of screen height, keep 16:9 ratio
-    height = int(screen_height * 0.9)
-    width = int(height * (16 / 9))
-
-    # If width exceeds screen width, scale down
-    if width > screen_width * 0.9:
-        width = int(screen_width * 0.9)
-        height = int(width / (16 / 9))
-
-    w.resize(width, height)
-
-    # Center the window on the screen
-    x = screen_geometry.x() + (screen_geometry.width() - width) // 2
-    y = screen_geometry.y() + (screen_geometry.height() - height) // 2
-    w.move(x, y)
+    screen_geometry = available_screen_geometry()
+    if screen_geometry is not None:
+        width, height = main_app_size_for_screen(screen_geometry)
+        apply_centered_size(w, width, height, available=screen_geometry)
+    else:
+        w.resize(w.minimumSizeHint())
 
     w.show()
 

bec_widgets/applications/navigation_centre/side_bar_components.py

@@ -127,12 +127,10 @@ class NavigationItem(QWidget):
         self._icon_size_expanded = QtCore.QSize(26, 26)
         self.icon_btn.setIconSize(self._icon_size_collapsed)
         # Remove QToolButton hover/pressed background/outline
-        self.icon_btn.setStyleSheet(
-            """
+        self.icon_btn.setStyleSheet("""
             QToolButton:hover { background: transparent; border: none; }
             QToolButton:pressed { background: transparent; border: none; }
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         # Mini label below icon
         self.mini_lbl = QLabel(self._mini_text, self)

bec_widgets/applications/views/developer_view/developer_view.py

@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
 
 from bec_widgets.applications.views.developer_view.developer_widget import DeveloperWidget
-from bec_widgets.applications.views.view import ViewBase
+from bec_widgets.applications.views.view import ViewBase, ViewTourSteps
 
 
 class DeveloperView(ViewBase):
@@ -14,13 +14,89 @@ class DeveloperView(ViewBase):
         parent: QWidget | None = None,
         content: QWidget | None = None,
         *,
-        id: str | None = None,
+        view_id: str | None = None,
         title: str | None = None,
+        **kwargs,
     ):
-        super().__init__(parent=parent, content=content, id=id, title=title)
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, content=content, view_id=view_id, title=title, **kwargs)
         self.developer_widget = DeveloperWidget(parent=self)
         self.set_content(self.developer_widget)
 
+    def register_tour_steps(self, guided_tour, main_app) -> ViewTourSteps | None:
+        """Register Developer View components with the guided tour.
+
+        Args:
+            guided_tour: The GuidedTour instance to register with.
+            main_app: The main application instance (for accessing set_current).
+
+        Returns:
+            ViewTourSteps | None: Model containing view title and step IDs.
+        """
+        step_ids = []
+        dev_widget = self.developer_widget
+
+        # IDE Toolbar
+        def get_ide_toolbar():
+            main_app.set_current("developer_view")
+            return (dev_widget.toolbar, None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_ide_toolbar,
+            title="IDE Toolbar",
+            text="Quick access to save files, execute scripts, and configure IDE settings. Use the toolbar to manage your code and execution.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        # IDE Explorer
+        def get_ide_explorer():
+            main_app.set_current("developer_view")
+            return (dev_widget.explorer_dock.widget(), None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_ide_explorer,
+            title="File Explorer",
+            text="Browse and manage your macro files. Create new files, open existing ones, and organize your scripts.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        # IDE Editor
+        def get_ide_editor():
+            main_app.set_current("developer_view")
+            return (dev_widget.monaco_dock.widget(), None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_ide_editor,
+            title="Code Editor",
+            text="Write and edit Python code with syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and signature help. Monaco editor provides a modern coding experience.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        # IDE Console
+        def get_ide_console():
+            main_app.set_current("developer_view")
+            return (dev_widget.console_dock.widget(), None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_ide_console,
+            title="BEC Shell Console",
+            text="Interactive Python console with BEC integration. Execute commands, test code snippets, and interact with the BEC system in real-time.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        # IDE Plotting Area
+        def get_ide_plotting():
+            main_app.set_current("developer_view")
+            return (dev_widget.plotting_ads, None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_ide_plotting,
+            title="Plotting Area",
+            text="View plots and visualizations generated by your scripts. Arrange multiple plots in a flexible layout.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        return ViewTourSteps(view_title="Developer View", step_ids=step_ids)
+
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":
     import sys
@@ -50,7 +126,11 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":
     _app.resize(width, height)
     developer_view = DeveloperView()
     _app.add_view(
-        icon="code_blocks", title="IDE", widget=developer_view, id="developer_view", exclusive=True
+        icon="code_blocks",
+        title="IDE",
+        widget=developer_view,
+        view_id="developer_view",
+        exclusive=True,
     )
     _app.show()
     # developer_view.show()

bec_widgets/applications/views/developer_view/developer_widget.py

@@ -13,8 +13,8 @@ from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.actions import MaterialIconAction
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.bundles import ToolbarBundle
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.toolbar import ModularToolBar
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.advanced_dock_area import AdvancedDockArea
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.dock_area import BECDockArea
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.qt_ads import CDockWidget
 from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.monaco.monaco_dock import MonacoDock
 from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.monaco.monaco_widget import MonacoWidget
@@ -79,6 +79,8 @@ def markdown_to_html(md_text: str) -> str:
 
 
 class DeveloperWidget(DockAreaWidget):
+    RPC = False
+    PLUGIN = False
 
     def __init__(self, parent=None, **kwargs):
         super().__init__(parent=parent, variant="compact", **kwargs)
@@ -92,14 +94,14 @@ class DeveloperWidget(DockAreaWidget):
         self.explorer = IDEExplorer(self)
         self.explorer.setObjectName("Explorer")
 
-        self.console = BECShell(self)
+        self.console = BECShell(self, rpc_exposed=False)
         self.console.setObjectName("BEC Shell")
-        self.terminal = WebConsole(self)
+        self.terminal = WebConsole(self, rpc_exposed=False)
         self.terminal.setObjectName("Terminal")
-        self.monaco = MonacoDock(self)
+        self.monaco = MonacoDock(self, rpc_exposed=False, rpc_passthrough_children=False)
         self.monaco.setObjectName("MonacoEditor")
         self.monaco.save_enabled.connect(self._on_save_enabled_update)
-        self.plotting_ads = AdvancedDockArea(
+        self.plotting_ads = BECDockArea(
             self,
             mode="plot",
             default_add_direction="bottom",

bec_widgets/applications/views/device_manager_view/device_manager_dialogs/device_form_dialog.py

@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ logger = bec_logger.logger
 class DeviceManagerOphydValidationDialog(QtWidgets.QDialog):
     """Popup dialog to test Ophyd device configurations interactively."""
 
-    def __init__(self, parent=None, config: dict | None = None):  # type:ignore
+    def __init__(self, parent=None, config: dict | None = None):  # type: ignore
         super().__init__(parent)
         self.setWindowTitle("Device Manager Ophyd Test")
         self._config_status = ConfigStatus.UNKNOWN.value
@@ -133,7 +133,7 @@ class DeviceFormDialog(QtWidgets.QDialog):
     # validated: config_status, connection_status
     accepted_data = QtCore.Signal(dict, int, int, str, str)
 
-    def __init__(self, parent=None, add_btn_text: str = "Add Device"):  # type:ignore
+    def __init__(self, parent=None, add_btn_text: str = "Add Device"):  # type: ignore
         super().__init__(parent)
         # Track old device name if config is edited
         self._old_device_name: str = ""

bec_widgets/applications/views/device_manager_view/device_manager_dialogs/upload_redis_dialog.py

@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ from __future__ import annotations
 
 from enum import IntEnum
 from functools import partial
-from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, List, Tuple
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Any, List, Tuple
 
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_qthemes import apply_theme, material_icon

bec_widgets/applications/views/device_manager_view/device_manager_display_widget.py

@@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.actions import MaterialIconAction
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.bundles import ToolbarBundle
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.toolbar import ModularToolBar
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
 from bec_widgets.widgets.control.device_manager.components import (
     DeviceTable,
     DMConfigView,
@@ -103,16 +103,14 @@ class CustomBusyWidget(QWidget):
         button_width = int(button_height * aspect_ratio)
         self.cancel_button.setFixedSize(button_width, button_height)
         color = get_accent_colors()
-        self.cancel_button.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self.cancel_button.setStyleSheet(f"""
             QPushButton {{
                 background-color: {color.emergency.name()};
                 color: white;
                 font-weight: 600;
                 border-radius: 6px;
             }}
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         # Layout
         content_layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
@@ -128,12 +126,10 @@ class CustomBusyWidget(QWidget):
             bg_color = color._colors.get("BG", None)
         if bg_color is None:  # Fallback if missing
             bg_color = QColor(50, 50, 50, 255)
-        self.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self.setStyleSheet(f"""
             background-color: {bg_color.name()};
             border-radius: 12px;
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
     def _ui_scale(self) -> int:
         parent = self.parent()

bec_widgets/applications/views/device_manager_view/device_manager_view.py

@@ -1,11 +1,12 @@
 """Module for Device Manager View."""
 
+from qtpy.QtCore import QRect
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
 
 from bec_widgets.applications.views.device_manager_view.device_manager_widget import (
     DeviceManagerWidget,
 )
-from bec_widgets.applications.views.view import ViewBase
+from bec_widgets.applications.views.view import ViewBase, ViewTourSteps
 from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
 
 
@@ -19,11 +20,21 @@ class DeviceManagerView(ViewBase):
         parent: QWidget | None = None,
         content: QWidget | None = None,
         *,
-        id: str | None = None,
+        view_id: str | None = None,
         title: str | None = None,
+        **kwargs,
     ):
-        super().__init__(parent=parent, content=content, id=id, title=title)
-        self.device_manager_widget = DeviceManagerWidget(parent=self)
+        super().__init__(
+            parent=parent,
+            content=content,
+            view_id=view_id,
+            title=title,
+            rpc_passthrough_children=False,
+            **kwargs,
+        )
+        self.device_manager_widget = DeviceManagerWidget(
+            parent=self, rpc_exposed=False, rpc_passthrough_children=False
+        )
         self.set_content(self.device_manager_widget)
 
     @SafeSlot()
@@ -34,6 +45,110 @@ class DeviceManagerView(ViewBase):
         """
         self.device_manager_widget.on_enter()
 
+    def register_tour_steps(self, guided_tour, main_app) -> ViewTourSteps | None:
+        """Register Device Manager components with the guided tour.
+
+        Args:
+            guided_tour: The GuidedTour instance to register with.
+            main_app: The main application instance (for accessing set_current).
+
+        Returns:
+            ViewTourSteps | None: Model containing view title and step IDs.
+        """
+        step_ids = []
+        dm_widget = self.device_manager_widget
+
+        # The device_manager_widget is not yet initialized, so we will register
+        # tour steps for its uninitialized state.
+
+        # Register Load Current Config button
+        def get_load_current():
+            main_app.set_current("device_manager")
+            if dm_widget._initialized is True:
+                return (None, None)
+            return (dm_widget.button_load_current_config, None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_load_current,
+            title="Load Current Config",
+            text="Load the current device configuration from the BEC server.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        # Register Load Config From File button
+        def get_load_file():
+            main_app.set_current("device_manager")
+            if dm_widget._initialized is True:
+                return (None, None)
+            return (dm_widget.button_load_config_from_file, None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_load_file,
+            title="Load Config From File",
+            text="Load a device configuration from a YAML file on disk.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        ## Register steps for the initialized state
+        # Register main device table
+        def get_device_table():
+            main_app.set_current("device_manager")
+            if dm_widget._initialized is False:
+                return (None, None)
+            return (dm_widget.device_manager_display.device_table_view, None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_device_table,
+            title="Device Table",
+            text="This table displays the config that is prepared to be uploaded to the BEC server. It allows users to review and modify device config settings, and also validate them before uploading to the BEC server.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        col_text_mapping = {
+            0: "Shows if a device configuration is valid. Automatically validated when adding a new device.",
+            1: "Shows if a device is connectable. Validated on demand.",
+            2: "Device name, unique across all devices within a config.",
+            3: "Device class used to initialize the device on the BEC server.",
+            4: "Defines how BEC treats readings of the device during scans. The options are 'monitored', 'baseline', 'async', 'continuous' or 'on_demand'.",
+            5: "Defines how BEC reacts if a device readback fails. Options are 'raise', 'retry', or 'buffer'.",
+            6: "User-defined tags associated with the device.",
+            7: "A brief description of the device.",
+            8: "Device is enabled when the configuration is loaded.",
+            9: "Device is set to read-only.",
+            10: "This flag allows to configure if the 'trigger' method of the device is called during scans.",
+        }
+
+        # We have at least one device registered
+        def get_device_table_row(column: int):
+            main_app.set_current("device_manager")
+            if dm_widget._initialized is False:
+                return (None, None)
+            table = dm_widget.device_manager_display.device_table_view.table
+            header = table.horizontalHeader()
+            x = header.sectionViewportPosition(column)
+            table.horizontalScrollBar().setValue(x)
+            # Recompute after scrolling
+            x = header.sectionViewportPosition(column)
+            w = header.sectionSize(column)
+            h = header.height()
+            rect = QRect(x, 0, w, h)
+            top_left = header.viewport().mapTo(main_app, rect.topLeft())
+
+            return (QRect(top_left, rect.size()), col_text_mapping.get(column, ""))
+
+        for col, text in col_text_mapping.items():
+            step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+                widget=lambda col=col: get_device_table_row(col),
+                title=f"{dm_widget.device_manager_display.device_table_view.table.horizontalHeaderItem(col).text()}",
+                text=text,
+            )
+            step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        if not step_ids:
+            return None
+
+        return ViewTourSteps(view_title="Device Manager", step_ids=step_ids)
+
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     import sys
@@ -65,7 +180,7 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     _app.add_view(
         icon="display_settings",
         title="Device Manager",
-        id="device_manager",
+        view_id="device_manager",
         widget=device_manager_view.device_manager_widget,
         mini_text="DM",
     )

bec_widgets/applications/views/device_manager_view/device_manager_widget.py

@@ -22,8 +22,8 @@ class DeviceManagerWidget(BECWidget, QtWidgets.QWidget):
 
     RPC = False
 
-    def __init__(self, parent=None, client=None):
-        super().__init__(parent=parent, client=client)
+    def __init__(self, parent=None, client=None, **kwargs):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, client=client, **kwargs)
         self.stacked_layout = QtWidgets.QStackedLayout()
         self.stacked_layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
         self.stacked_layout.setSpacing(0)

bec_widgets/applications/views/dock_area_view/dock_area_view.py

@@ -0,0 +1,31 @@
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
+
+from bec_widgets.applications.views.view import ViewBase
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.dock_area import BECDockArea
+
+
+class DockAreaView(ViewBase):
+    """
+    Modular dock area view for arranging and managing multiple dockable widgets.
+    """
+
+    RPC_CONTENT_CLASS = BECDockArea
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        parent: QWidget | None = None,
+        content: QWidget | None = None,
+        *,
+        view_id: str | None = None,
+        title: str | None = None,
+        **kwargs,
+    ):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, content=content, view_id=view_id, title=title, **kwargs)
+        self.dock_area = BECDockArea(
+            self,
+            profile_namespace="bec",
+            auto_profile_namespace=False,
+            object_name="DockArea",
+            rpc_exposed=False,
+        )
+        self.set_content(self.dock_area)

bec_widgets/applications/views/view.py

@@ -1,5 +1,8 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
+from typing import List
+
+from pydantic import BaseModel
 from qtpy.QtCore import QEventLoop
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QDialog,
@@ -14,13 +17,26 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QWidget,
 )
 
+from bec_widgets import BECWidget
 from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
 from bec_widgets.widgets.control.device_input.device_combobox.device_combobox import DeviceComboBox
 from bec_widgets.widgets.control.device_input.signal_combobox.signal_combobox import SignalComboBox
 from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.waveform.waveform import Waveform
 
 
-class ViewBase(QWidget):
+class ViewTourSteps(BaseModel):
+    """Model representing tour steps for a view.
+
+    Attributes:
+        view_title: The human-readable title of the view.
+        step_ids: List of registered step IDs in the order they should appear.
+    """
+
+    view_title: str
+    step_ids: List[str]
+
+
+class ViewBase(BECWidget, QWidget):
     """Wrapper for a content widget used inside the main app's stacked view.
 
     Subclasses can implement `on_enter` and `on_exit` to run custom logic when the view becomes visible or is about to be hidden.
@@ -28,21 +44,28 @@ class ViewBase(QWidget):
     Args:
         content (QWidget): The actual view widget to display.
         parent (QWidget | None): Parent widget.
-        id (str | None): Optional view id, useful for debugging or introspection.
+        view_id (str | None): Optional view view_id, useful for debugging or introspection.
         title (str | None): Optional human-readable title.
     """
 
+    RPC = True
+    PLUGIN = False
+    USER_ACCESS = ["activate"]
+    RPC_CONTENT_CLASS: type[QWidget] | None = None
+    RPC_CONTENT_ATTR = "content"
+
     def __init__(
         self,
         parent: QWidget | None = None,
         content: QWidget | None = None,
         *,
-        id: str | None = None,
+        view_id: str | None = None,
         title: str | None = None,
+        **kwargs,
     ):
-        super().__init__(parent=parent)
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, **kwargs)
         self.content: QWidget | None = None
-        self.view_id = id
+        self.view_id = view_id
         self.view_title = title
 
         lay = QVBoxLayout(self)
@@ -76,6 +99,41 @@ class ViewBase(QWidget):
         """
         return True
 
+    @SafeSlot()
+    def activate(self) -> None:
+        """Switch the parent application to this view."""
+        if not self.view_id:
+            raise ValueError("Cannot switch view without a view_id.")
+
+        parent = self.parent()
+        while parent is not None:
+            if hasattr(parent, "set_current"):
+                parent.set_current(self.view_id)
+                return
+            parent = parent.parent()
+        raise RuntimeError("Could not find a parent application with set_current().")
+
+    def cleanup(self):
+        if self.content is not None:
+            self.content.close()
+            self.content.deleteLater()
+        super().cleanup()
+
+    def register_tour_steps(self, guided_tour, main_app) -> ViewTourSteps | None:
+        """Register this view's components with the guided tour.
+
+        Args:
+            guided_tour: The GuidedTour instance to register with.
+            main_app: The main application instance (for accessing set_current).
+
+        Returns:
+            ViewTourSteps | None: A model containing the view title and step IDs,
+                or None if this view has no tour steps.
+
+        Override this method in subclasses to register view-specific components.
+        """
+        return None
+
 
 ####################################################################################################
 # Example views for demonstration/testing purposes
@@ -102,17 +160,17 @@ class WaveformViewPopup(ViewBase):  # pragma: no cover
         self.device_edit.insertItem(0, "")
         self.device_edit.setEditable(True)
         self.device_edit.setCurrentIndex(0)
-        self.entry_edit = SignalComboBox(parent=self)
-        self.entry_edit.include_config_signals = False
-        self.entry_edit.insertItem(0, "")
-        self.entry_edit.setEditable(True)
-        self.device_edit.currentTextChanged.connect(self.entry_edit.set_device)
-        self.device_edit.device_reset.connect(self.entry_edit.reset_selection)
+        self.signal_edit = SignalComboBox(parent=self)
+        self.signal_edit.include_config_signals = False
+        self.signal_edit.insertItem(0, "")
+        self.signal_edit.setEditable(True)
+        self.device_edit.currentTextChanged.connect(self.signal_edit.set_device)
+        self.device_edit.device_reset.connect(self.signal_edit.reset_selection)
 
         form = QFormLayout()
         form.addRow(label)
         form.addRow("Device", self.device_edit)
-        form.addRow("Signal", self.entry_edit)
+        form.addRow("Signal", self.signal_edit)
 
         buttons = QDialogButtonBox(QDialogButtonBox.Ok | QDialogButtonBox.Cancel, parent=dialog)
         buttons.accepted.connect(dialog.accept)
@@ -124,7 +182,7 @@ class WaveformViewPopup(ViewBase):  # pragma: no cover
 
         if dialog.exec_() == QDialog.Accepted:
             self.waveform.plot(
-                y_name=self.device_edit.currentText(), y_entry=self.entry_edit.currentText()
+                device_y=self.device_edit.currentText(), signal_y=self.signal_edit.currentText()
             )
 
     @SafeSlot()
@@ -249,7 +307,7 @@ class WaveformViewInline(ViewBase):  # pragma: no cover
         dev = self.device_edit.currentText()
         sig = self.entry_edit.currentText()
         if dev and sig:
-            self.waveform.plot(y_name=dev, y_entry=sig)
+            self.waveform.plot(device_y=dev, signal_y=sig)
         self.stack.setCurrentIndex(1)
 
     def _show_waveform_without_changes(self):

bec_widgets/cli/client_utils.py

@@ -297,14 +297,32 @@ class BECGuiClient(RPCBase):
             return self._raise_all()
         return self._start(wait=wait)
 
+    def change_theme(self, theme: Literal["light", "dark"] | None = None) -> None:
+        """
+        Apply a GUI theme or toggle between dark and light.
+
+        Args:
+            theme(Literal["light", "dark"] | None): Theme to apply. If None, the current
+                theme is fetched from the GUI and toggled.
+        """
+        if not self._check_if_server_is_alive():
+            self._start(wait=True)
+
+        with wait_for_server(self):
+            if theme is None:
+                current_theme = self.launcher._run_rpc("fetch_theme")
+                next_theme = "light" if current_theme == "dark" else "dark"
+            else:
+                next_theme = theme
+            self.launcher._run_rpc("change_theme", theme=next_theme)
+
     def new(
         self,
         name: str | None = None,
         wait: bool = True,
         geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None = None,
         launch_script: str = "dock_area",
-        profile: str | None = None,
-        start_empty: bool = False,
+        startup_profile: str | Literal["restore", "skip"] | None = None,
         **kwargs,
     ) -> client.AdvancedDockArea:
         """Create a new top-level dock area.
@@ -314,48 +332,81 @@ class BECGuiClient(RPCBase):
             wait(bool, optional): Whether to wait for the server to start. Defaults to True.
             geometry(tuple[int, int, int, int] | None): The geometry of the dock area (pos_x, pos_y, w, h).
             launch_script(str): The launch script to use. Defaults to "dock_area".
-            profile(str | None): The profile name to load. If None, loads the "general" profile.
-                Use a profile name to load a specific saved profile.
-            start_empty(bool): If True, start with an empty dock area when loading specified profile.
+            startup_profile(str | Literal["restore", "skip"] | None): Startup mode for
+                the dock area:
+                  - None: start in transient empty workspace
+                  - "restore": restore last-used profile
+                  - "skip": skip profile initialization
+                  - "<name>": load the named profile
             **kwargs: Additional keyword arguments passed to the dock area.
 
         Returns:
             client.AdvancedDockArea: The new dock area.
 
-        Note:
-            The "general" profile is mandatory and will always exist. If manually deleted,
-            it will be automatically recreated.
-
         Examples:
-            >>> gui.new()  # Start with the "general" profile
-            >>> gui.new(profile="my_profile")  # Load specific profile, if profile does not exist, the new profile is created empty with specified name
-            >>> gui.new(start_empty=True)  # Start with "general" profile but empty dock area
-            >>> gui.new(profile="my_profile", start_empty=True)  # Start with "my_profile" profile but empty dock area
+            >>> gui.new()  # Start with an empty unsaved workspace
+            >>> gui.new(startup_profile="restore")  # Restore last profile
+            >>> gui.new(startup_profile="my_profile")  # Load explicit profile
         """
+        if "profile" in kwargs or "start_empty" in kwargs:
+            raise TypeError(
+                "gui.new() no longer accepts 'profile' or 'start_empty'. Use 'startup_profile' instead."
+            )
+
         if not self._check_if_server_is_alive():
             self.start(wait=True)
         if wait:
             with wait_for_server(self):
-                widget = self.launcher._run_rpc(
-                    "launch",
-                    launch_script=launch_script,
+                return self._new_impl(
                     name=name,
                     geometry=geometry,
-                    profile=profile,
-                    start_empty=start_empty,
+                    launch_script=launch_script,
+                    startup_profile=startup_profile,
                     **kwargs,
-                )  # pylint: disable=protected-access
-                return widget
-        widget = self.launcher._run_rpc(
+                )
+        return self._new_impl(
+            name=name,
+            geometry=geometry,
+            launch_script=launch_script,
+            startup_profile=startup_profile,
+            **kwargs,
+        )
+
+    def _new_impl(
+        self,
+        *,
+        name: str | None,
+        geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None,
+        launch_script: str,
+        startup_profile: str | Literal["restore", "skip"] | None,
+        **kwargs,
+    ):
+        if launch_script == "dock_area":
+            try:
+                return self.launcher._run_rpc(
+                    "system.launch_dock_area",
+                    name=name,
+                    geometry=geometry,
+                    startup_profile=startup_profile,
+                    **kwargs,
+                )
+            except ValueError as exc:
+                error = str(exc)
+                if (
+                    "Unknown system RPC method: system.launch_dock_area" not in error
+                    and "has no attribute 'system.launch_dock_area'" not in error
+                ):
+                    raise
+                logger.debug("Server does not support system.launch_dock_area; using launcher RPC")
+
+        return self.launcher._run_rpc(
             "launch",
             launch_script=launch_script,
             name=name,
             geometry=geometry,
-            profile=profile,
-            start_empty=start_empty,
+            startup_profile=startup_profile,
             **kwargs,
         )  # pylint: disable=protected-access
-        return widget
 
     def delete(self, name: str) -> None:
         """Delete a dock area and its parent window.

bec_widgets/cli/generate_cli.py

@@ -164,17 +164,13 @@ class {class_name}(RPCBase):"""
             self.content += f"""
     \"\"\"{class_docs}\"\"\"
     """
-        if not cls.USER_ACCESS:
+        user_access_entries = self._get_user_access_entries(cls)
+        if not user_access_entries:
             self.content += """...
     """
 
-        for method in cls.USER_ACCESS:
-            is_property_setter = False
-            obj = getattr(cls, method, None)
-            if obj is None:
-                obj = getattr(cls, method.split(".setter")[0], None)
-                is_property_setter = True
-                method = method.split(".setter")[0]
+        for method_entry in user_access_entries:
+            method, obj, is_property_setter = self._resolve_method_object(cls, method_entry)
             if obj is None:
                 raise AttributeError(
                     f"Method {method} not found in class {cls.__name__}. "
@@ -216,6 +212,34 @@ class {class_name}(RPCBase):"""
 {doc}
         \"\"\""""
 
+    @staticmethod
+    def _get_user_access_entries(cls) -> list[str]:
+        entries = list(getattr(cls, "USER_ACCESS", []))
+        content_cls = getattr(cls, "RPC_CONTENT_CLASS", None)
+        if content_cls is not None:
+            entries.extend(getattr(content_cls, "USER_ACCESS", []))
+        return list(dict.fromkeys(entries))
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _resolve_method_object(cls, method_entry: str):
+        method_name = method_entry
+        is_property_setter = False
+
+        if method_entry.endswith(".setter"):
+            is_property_setter = True
+            method_name = method_entry.split(".setter")[0]
+
+        candidate_classes = [cls]
+        content_cls = getattr(cls, "RPC_CONTENT_CLASS", None)
+        if content_cls is not None:
+            candidate_classes.append(content_cls)
+
+        for candidate_cls in candidate_classes:
+            obj = getattr(candidate_cls, method_name, None)
+            if obj is not None:
+                return method_name, obj, is_property_setter
+        return method_name, None, is_property_setter
+
     def _rpc_call(self, timeout_info: dict[str, float | None]):
         """
         Decorator to mark a method as an RPC call.
@@ -291,7 +315,8 @@ def main():
 
     client_path = module_dir / client_subdir / "client.py"
 
-    rpc_classes = get_custom_classes(module_name)
+    packages = ("widgets", "applications") if module_name == "bec_widgets" else ("widgets",)
+    rpc_classes = get_custom_classes(module_name, packages=packages)
     logger.info(f"Obtained classes with RPC objects: {rpc_classes!r}")
 
     generator = ClientGenerator(base=module_name == "bec_widgets")

bec_widgets/cli/rpc/rpc_base.py

@@ -292,6 +292,11 @@ class RPCBase:
                 return {
                     key: self._create_widget_from_msg_result(val) for key, val in msg_result.items()
                 }
+            rpc_enabled = msg_result.get("__rpc__", True)
+            if rpc_enabled is False:
+                return None
+
+            msg_result = dict(msg_result)
             cls = msg_result.pop("widget_class", None)
             msg_result.pop("__rpc__", None)
 

bec_widgets/cli/rpc/rpc_widget_handler.py

@@ -32,7 +32,8 @@ class RPCWidgetHandler:
             None
         """
         self._widget_classes = (
-            get_custom_classes("bec_widgets") + get_all_plugin_widgets()
+            get_custom_classes("bec_widgets", packages=("widgets", "applications"))
+            + get_all_plugin_widgets()
         ).as_dict(IGNORE_WIDGETS)
 
     def create_widget(self, widget_type, **kwargs) -> BECWidget:

bec_widgets/cli/server.py

@@ -8,6 +8,7 @@ import sys
 from contextlib import redirect_stderr, redirect_stdout
 
 import darkdetect
+import shiboken6
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.service_config import ServiceConfig
 from bec_qthemes import apply_theme
@@ -93,6 +94,7 @@ class GUIServer:
         """
         Run the GUI server.
         """
+        logger.info("Starting GUIServer", repr(self))
         self.app = QApplication(sys.argv)
         if darkdetect.isDark():
             apply_theme("dark")
@@ -101,11 +103,11 @@ class GUIServer:
 
         self.app.setApplicationName("BEC")
         self.app.gui_id = self.gui_id  # type: ignore
+        self.app.gui_server = self  # type: ignore # make server accessible from QApplication for getattr in widgets
         self.setup_bec_icon()
 
         service_config = self._get_service_config()
         self.dispatcher = BECDispatcher(config=service_config, gui_id=self.gui_id)
-        # self.dispatcher.start_cli_server(gui_id=self.gui_id)
 
         if self.gui_class:
             self.launcher_window = LaunchWindow(
@@ -118,7 +120,7 @@ class GUIServer:
         self.launcher_window.setAttribute(Qt.WA_ShowWithoutActivating)  # type: ignore
 
         self.app.aboutToQuit.connect(self.shutdown)
-        self.app.setQuitOnLastWindowClosed(False)
+        self.app.setQuitOnLastWindowClosed(True)
 
         def sigint_handler(*args):
             # display message, for people to let it terminate gracefully
@@ -127,8 +129,7 @@ class GUIServer:
             with RPCRegister.delayed_broadcast():
                 for widget in QApplication.instance().topLevelWidgets():  # type: ignore
                     widget.close()
-            if self.app:
-                self.app.quit()
+            self.shutdown()
 
         signal.signal(signal.SIGINT, sigint_handler)
         signal.signal(signal.SIGTERM, sigint_handler)
@@ -149,9 +150,10 @@ class GUIServer:
         self.app.setWindowIcon(icon)
 
     def shutdown(self):
-        """
-        Shutdown the GUI server.
-        """
+        logger.info("Shutdown GUIServer", repr(self))
+        if self.launcher_window and shiboken6.isValid(self.launcher_window):
+            self.launcher_window.close()
+            self.launcher_window.deleteLater()
         if pylsp_server.is_running():
             pylsp_server.stop()
         if self.dispatcher:

bec_widgets/utils/bec_connector.py

@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ import shiboken6 as shb
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.utils.import_utils import lazy_import_from
 from pydantic import BaseModel, Field, field_validator
-from qtpy.QtCore import Property, QObject, QRunnable, QThreadPool, QTimer, Signal
+from qtpy.QtCore import Property, QObject, QRunnable, QThreadPool, Signal
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
 
 from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_register import RPCRegister
@@ -23,7 +23,6 @@ from bec_widgets.utils.yaml_dialog import load_yaml, load_yaml_gui, save_yaml, s
 
 if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
     from bec_widgets.utils.bec_dispatcher import BECDispatcher
-    from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock import BECDock
 else:
     BECDispatcher = lazy_import_from("bec_widgets.utils.bec_dispatcher", ("BECDispatcher",))
 
@@ -89,6 +88,8 @@ class BECConnector:
         gui_id: str | None = None,
         object_name: str | None = None,
         root_widget: bool = False,
+        rpc_exposed: bool = True,
+        rpc_passthrough_children: bool = True,
         **kwargs,
     ):
         """
@@ -100,6 +101,10 @@ class BECConnector:
             gui_id(str, optional): The GUI ID.
             object_name(str, optional): The object name.
             root_widget(bool, optional): If set to True, the parent_id will be always set to None, thus enforcing that the widget is accessible as a root widget of the BECGuiClient object.
+            rpc_exposed(bool, optional): If set to False, this instance is excluded from RPC registry broadcast and CLI namespace discovery.
+            rpc_passthrough_children(bool, optional): Only relevant when ``rpc_exposed=False``.
+                If True, RPC-visible children rebind to the next visible ancestor.
+                If False (default), children stay hidden behind this widget.
             **kwargs:
         """
         # Extract object_name from kwargs to not pass it to Qt class
@@ -128,8 +133,13 @@ class BECConnector:
             # the function depends on BECClient, and BECDispatcher
             @SafeSlot()
             def terminate(client=self.client, dispatcher=self.bec_dispatcher):
+                app = QApplication.instance()
+                gui_server = getattr(app, "gui_server", None)
+                if gui_server and hasattr(gui_server, "shutdown"):
+                    gui_server.shutdown()
                 logger.info("Disconnecting", repr(dispatcher))
                 dispatcher.disconnect_all()
+                dispatcher.stop_cli_server()
 
                 try:  # shutdown ophyd threads if any
                     from ophyd._pyepics_shim import _dispatcher
@@ -185,6 +195,11 @@ class BECConnector:
 
         # If set to True, the parent_id will be always set to None, thus enforcing that the widget is accessible as a root widget of the BECGuiClient object.
         self.root_widget = root_widget
+        # If set to False, this instance is not exposed through RPC at all.
+        self.rpc_exposed = bool(rpc_exposed)
+        # If True on a hidden parent (rpc_exposed=False), children can bubble up to
+        # the next visible RPC ancestor.
+        self.rpc_passthrough_children = bool(rpc_passthrough_children)
 
         self._update_object_name()
 
@@ -193,11 +208,41 @@ class BECConnector:
         try:
             if self.root_widget:
                 return None
-            connector_parent = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(self)
+            connector_parent = self._get_rpc_parent_ancestor()
             return connector_parent.gui_id if connector_parent else None
         except:
             logger.error(f"Error getting parent_id for {self.__class__.__name__}")
 
+    def _get_rpc_parent_ancestor(self) -> BECConnector | None:
+        """
+        Find the nearest ancestor that is RPC-addressable.
+
+        Rules:
+          - If an ancestor has ``rpc_exposed=False``, it is an explicit visibility
+            boundary unless ``rpc_passthrough_children=True``.
+          - If an ancestor has ``RPC=False`` (but remains rpc_exposed), it is treated
+            as structural and children continue to the next ancestor.
+          - Lookup always happens through ``WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor``
+            so plain ``QWidget`` nodes between connectors are ignored.
+        """
+        current = self
+        while True:
+            parent = WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(current)
+            if parent is None:
+                return None
+
+            if not getattr(parent, "rpc_exposed", True):
+                if getattr(parent, "rpc_passthrough_children", False):
+                    current = parent
+                    continue
+                return parent
+
+            if getattr(parent, "RPC", True):
+                return parent
+
+            current = parent
+        return None
+
     def change_object_name(self, name: str) -> None:
         """
         Change the object name of the widget. Unregister old name and register the new one.
@@ -216,8 +261,9 @@ class BECConnector:
         """
         # 1) Enforce unique objectName among siblings with the same BECConnector parent
         self._enforce_unique_sibling_name()
-        # 2) Register the object for RPC
-        self.rpc_register.add_rpc(self)
+        # 2) Register the object for RPC unless instance-level exposure is disabled.
+        if getattr(self, "rpc_exposed", True):
+            self.rpc_register.add_rpc(self)
         try:
             self.name_established.emit(self.object_name)
         except RuntimeError as e:
@@ -235,7 +281,7 @@ class BECConnector:
         if not shb.isValid(self):
             return
 
-        parent_bec = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(self)
+        parent_bec = WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(self)
 
         if parent_bec:
             # We have a parent => only compare with siblings under that parent
@@ -245,7 +291,7 @@ class BECConnector:
             # Use RPCRegister to avoid QApplication.allWidgets() during event processing.
             connections = self.rpc_register.list_all_connections().values()
             all_bec = [w for w in connections if isinstance(w, BECConnector) and shb.isValid(w)]
-            siblings = [w for w in all_bec if WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(w) is None]
+            siblings = [w for w in all_bec if WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(w) is None]
 
         # Collect used names among siblings
         used_names = {sib.objectName() for sib in siblings if sib is not self}
@@ -273,6 +319,8 @@ class BECConnector:
         Args:
             name (str): The new object name.
         """
+        # sanitize before setting to avoid issues with Qt object names and RPC namespaces
+        name = sanitize_namespace(name)
         super().setObjectName(name)
         self.object_name = name
         if self.rpc_register.object_is_registered(self):

bec_widgets/utils/bec_login.py

@@ -0,0 +1,87 @@
+"""
+Login dialog for user authentication.
+The Login Widget is styled in a Material Design style and emits
+the entered credentials through a signal for further processing.
+"""
+
+from qtpy.QtCore import Qt, Signal
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QLabel, QLineEdit, QPushButton, QVBoxLayout, QWidget
+
+
+class BECLogin(QWidget):
+    """Login dialog for user authentication in Material Design style."""
+
+    credentials_entered = Signal(str, str)
+
+    def __init__(self, parent=None):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent)
+        # Only displayed if this widget as standalone widget, and not embedded in another widget
+        self.setWindowTitle("Login")
+
+        title = QLabel("Sign in", parent=self)
+        title.setAlignment(Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignCenter)
+        title.setStyleSheet("""
+            #QLabel
+                {
+                    font-size: 18px;
+                    font-weight: 600;
+                }
+            """)
+
+        self.username = QLineEdit(parent=self)
+        self.username.setPlaceholderText("Username")
+
+        self.password = QLineEdit(parent=self)
+        self.password.setPlaceholderText("Password")
+        self.password.setEchoMode(QLineEdit.EchoMode.Password)
+
+        self.ok_btn = QPushButton("Sign in", parent=self)
+        self.ok_btn.setDefault(True)
+        self.ok_btn.clicked.connect(self._emit_credentials)
+        # If the user presses Enter in the password field, trigger the OK button click
+        self.password.returnPressed.connect(self.ok_btn.click)
+
+        # Build Layout
+        layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
+        layout.setContentsMargins(32, 32, 32, 32)
+        layout.setSpacing(16)
+
+        layout.addWidget(title)
+        layout.addSpacing(8)
+        layout.addWidget(self.username)
+        layout.addWidget(self.password)
+        layout.addSpacing(12)
+        layout.addWidget(self.ok_btn)
+
+        self.username.setFocus()
+
+        self.setStyleSheet("""
+            QLineEdit {
+                padding: 8px;
+            }
+            """)
+
+    def _clear_password(self):
+        """Clear the password field."""
+        self.password.clear()
+
+    def _emit_credentials(self):
+        """Emit credentials and clear the password field."""
+        self.credentials_entered.emit(self.username.text().strip(), self.password.text())
+        self._clear_password()
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    import sys
+
+    from bec_qthemes import apply_theme
+    from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
+
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+    apply_theme("light")
+
+    dialog = BECLogin()
+
+    dialog.credentials_entered.connect(lambda u, p: print(f"Username: {u}, Password: {p}"))
+    dialog.show()
+    sys.exit(app.exec_())

bec_widgets/utils/colors.py

@@ -101,8 +101,13 @@ class Colors:
             return requested
 
         # Case-insensitive match.
-        lower_to_canonical = {name.lower(): name for name in available}
-        return lower_to_canonical.get(requested.lower(), requested)
+        requested_lc = requested.casefold()
+
+        for name in available:
+            if name.casefold() == requested_lc:
+                return name
+
+        return requested
 
     @staticmethod
     def get_colormap(color_map: str) -> pg.ColorMap:

bec_widgets/utils/forms_from_types/forms.py

@@ -106,7 +106,9 @@ class TypedForm(BECWidget, QWidget):
 
     def _add_griditem(self, item: FormItemSpec, row: int):
         grid = self._form_grid.layout()
-        label = QLabel(parent=self._form_grid, text=item.name)
+        # Use title from FieldInfo if available, otherwise use the property name
+        label_text = item.info.title if item.info.title else item.name
+        label = QLabel(parent=self._form_grid, text=label_text)
         label.setProperty("_model_field_name", item.name)
         label.setToolTip(item.info.description or item.name)
         grid.addWidget(label, row, 0)

bec_widgets/utils/forms_from_types/items.py

@@ -231,6 +231,8 @@ class StrFormItem(DynamicFormItem):
     def __init__(self, parent: QWidget | None = None, *, spec: FormItemSpec) -> None:
         super().__init__(parent=parent, spec=spec)
         self._main_widget.textChanged.connect(self._value_changed)
+        if spec.info.description:
+            self._main_widget.setPlaceholderText(spec.info.description)
 
     def _add_main_widget(self) -> None:
         self._main_widget = QLineEdit()

bec_widgets/utils/guided_tour.py

@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ from __future__ import annotations
 
 import sys
 import weakref
-from typing import Callable, Dict, List, TypedDict
+from typing import Callable, Dict, List, Literal, TypedDict
 from uuid import uuid4
 
 import louie
@@ -12,15 +12,18 @@ from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_qthemes import material_icon
 from louie import saferef
 from qtpy.QtCore import QEvent, QObject, QRect, Qt, Signal
-from qtpy.QtGui import QAction, QColor, QPainter, QPen
+from qtpy.QtGui import QAction, QColor, QKeySequence, QPainter, QPen, QShortcut
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QAbstractItemView,
     QApplication,
     QFrame,
     QHBoxLayout,
     QLabel,
     QMainWindow,
+    QMenu,
     QMenuBar,
     QPushButton,
+    QTableWidgetItem,
     QToolBar,
     QVBoxLayout,
     QWidget,
@@ -40,9 +43,9 @@ class TourStep(TypedDict):
     widget_ref: (
         louie.saferef.BoundMethodWeakref
         | weakref.ReferenceType[
-            QWidget | QAction | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction, str | None]]
+            QWidget | QAction | QRect | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction | QRect, str | None]]
         ]
-        | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction, str | None]]
+        | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction | QRect, str | None]]
         | None
     )
     text: str
@@ -64,15 +67,13 @@ class TutorialOverlay(QWidget):
         box = QFrame(self)
         app = QApplication.instance()
         bg_color = app.palette().window().color()
-        box.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        box.setStyleSheet(f"""
             QFrame {{
                 background-color: {bg_color.name()};
                 border-radius: 8px;
                 padding: 8px;
             }}
-        """
-        )
+        """)
         layout = QVBoxLayout(box)
 
         # Top layout with close button (left) and step indicator (right)
@@ -103,10 +104,12 @@ class TutorialOverlay(QWidget):
         # Back button with material icon
         self.back_btn = QPushButton("Back")
         self.back_btn.setIcon(material_icon("arrow_back"))
+        self.back_btn.setToolTip("Press Backspace to go back")
 
         # Next button with material icon
         self.next_btn = QPushButton("Next")
         self.next_btn.setIcon(material_icon("arrow_forward"))
+        self.next_btn.setToolTip("Press Enter to continue")
 
         btn_layout.addStretch()
         btn_layout.addWidget(self.back_btn)
@@ -115,6 +118,15 @@ class TutorialOverlay(QWidget):
         layout.addLayout(top_layout)
         layout.addWidget(self.label)
         layout.addLayout(btn_layout)
+
+        # Escape closes the tour
+        QShortcut(QKeySequence(Qt.Key.Key_Escape), self, activated=self.close_btn.click)
+        # Enter and Return activates the next button
+        QShortcut(QKeySequence(Qt.Key.Key_Return), self, activated=self.next_btn.click)
+        QShortcut(QKeySequence(Qt.Key.Key_Enter), self, activated=self.next_btn.click)
+        # Map Backspace to the back button
+        QShortcut(QKeySequence(Qt.Key.Key_Backspace), self, activated=self.back_btn.click)
+
         return box
 
     def paintEvent(self, event):  # pylint: disable=unused-argument
@@ -223,6 +235,9 @@ class TutorialOverlay(QWidget):
         self.message_box.show()
         self.update()
 
+        # Update the focus policy of the buttons
+        self.back_btn.setEnabled(current_step > 1)
+
     def eventFilter(self, obj, event):
         if event.type() == QEvent.Type.Resize:
             self.setGeometry(obj.rect())
@@ -262,7 +277,9 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
     def register_widget(
         self,
         *,
-        widget: QWidget | QAction | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction, str | None]],
+        widget: (
+            QWidget | QAction | QRect | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction | QRect, str | None]]
+        ),
         text: str = "",
         title: str = "",
     ) -> str:
@@ -270,7 +287,7 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
         Register a widget with help text for tours.
 
         Args:
-            widget (QWidget | QAction | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction, str | None]]): The target widget or a callable that returns the widget and its help text.
+            widget (QWidget | QAction | QRect | Callable[[], tuple[QWidget | QAction | QRect, str | None]]): The target widget or a callable that returns the widget and its help text.
             text (str): The help text for the widget. This will be shown during the tour.
             title (str, optional): A title for the widget (defaults to its class name or action text).
 
@@ -293,6 +310,9 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
 
             widget_ref = _resolve_toolbar_button
             default_title = getattr(widget, "tooltip", "Toolbar Menu")
+        elif isinstance(widget, QRect):
+            widget_ref = widget
+            default_title = "Area"
         else:
             widget_ref = saferef.safe_ref(widget)
             default_title = widget.__class__.__name__ if hasattr(widget, "__class__") else "Widget"
@@ -327,11 +347,14 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
             if mb and mb not in menubars:
                 menubars.append(mb)
         menubars += [mb for mb in mw.findChildren(QMenuBar) if mb not in menubars]
+        menubars += [mb for mb in mw.findChildren(QMenu) if mb not in menubars]
+
         for mb in menubars:
             if action in mb.actions():
                 ar = mb.actionGeometry(action)
                 top_left = mb.mapTo(mw, ar.topLeft())
                 return QRect(top_left, ar.size())
+
         return None
 
     def unregister_widget(self, step_id: str) -> bool:
@@ -452,9 +475,9 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
 
         if self._current_index > 0:
             self._current_index -= 1
-            self._show_current_step()
+            self._show_current_step(direction="prev")
 
-    def _show_current_step(self):
+    def _show_current_step(self, direction: Literal["next"] | Literal["prev"] = "next"):
         """Display the current step."""
         if not self._active or not self.overlay:
             return
@@ -464,7 +487,9 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
 
         target, step_text = self._resolve_step_target(step)
         if target is None:
-            self._advance_past_invalid_step(step_title, reason="Step target no longer exists.")
+            self._advance_past_invalid_step(
+                step_title, reason="Step target no longer exists.", direction=direction
+            )
             return
 
         main_window = self.main_window
@@ -473,7 +498,9 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
             self.stop_tour()
             return
 
-        highlight_rect = self._get_highlight_rect(main_window, target, step_title)
+        highlight_rect = self._get_highlight_rect(
+            main_window, target, step_title, direction=direction
+        )
         if highlight_rect is None:
             return
 
@@ -483,9 +510,6 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
 
         self.overlay.show_step(highlight_rect, step_title, step_text, current_step, total_steps)
 
-        # Update button states
-        self.overlay.back_btn.setEnabled(self._current_index > 0)
-
         # Update next button text and state
         is_last_step = self._current_index >= len(self._tour_steps) - 1
         if is_last_step:
@@ -499,7 +523,7 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
 
         self.step_changed.emit(self._current_index + 1, len(self._tour_steps))
 
-    def _resolve_step_target(self, step: TourStep) -> tuple[QWidget | QAction | None, str]:
+    def _resolve_step_target(self, step: TourStep) -> tuple[QWidget | QAction | QRect | None, str]:
         """
         Resolve the target widget/action for the given step.
 
@@ -507,7 +531,7 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
             step(TourStep): The tour step to resolve.
 
         Returns:
-            tuple[QWidget | QAction | None, str]: The resolved target and the step text.
+            tuple[QWidget | QAction | QRect | None, str]: The resolved target, optional QRect, and the step text.
         """
         widget_ref = step.get("widget_ref")
         step_text = step.get("text", "")
@@ -520,7 +544,7 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
         if target is None:
             return None, step_text
 
-        if callable(target) and not isinstance(target, (QWidget, QAction)):
+        if callable(target) and not isinstance(target, (QWidget, QAction, QRect)):
             result = target()
             if isinstance(result, tuple):
                 target, alt_text = result
@@ -532,7 +556,11 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
         return target, step_text
 
     def _get_highlight_rect(
-        self, main_window: QWidget, target: QWidget | QAction, step_title: str
+        self,
+        main_window: QWidget,
+        target: QWidget | QAction | QRect,
+        step_title: str,
+        direction: Literal["next"] | Literal["prev"] = "next",
     ) -> QRect | None:
         """
         Get the QRect in main_window coordinates to highlight for the given target.
@@ -545,12 +573,15 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
         Returns:
             QRect | None: The rectangle to highlight, or None if not found/visible.
         """
+        if isinstance(target, QRect):
+            return target
         if isinstance(target, QAction):
             rect = self._action_highlight_rect(target)
             if rect is None:
                 self._advance_past_invalid_step(
                     step_title,
                     reason=f"Could not find visible widget or menu for QAction {target.text()!r}.",
+                    direction=direction,
                 )
                 return None
             return rect
@@ -559,28 +590,60 @@ class GuidedTour(QObject):
             if self._visible_check:
                 if not target.isVisible():
                     self._advance_past_invalid_step(
-                        step_title, reason=f"Widget {target!r} is not visible."
+                        step_title, reason=f"Widget {target!r} is not visible.", direction=direction
                     )
                     return None
             rect = target.rect()
             top_left = target.mapTo(main_window, rect.topLeft())
             return QRect(top_left, rect.size())
 
+        if isinstance(target, QTableWidgetItem):
+            # NOTE: On header items (which are also QTableWidgetItems), this does not work,
+            # Header items are just used as data containers by Qt, thus, we have to directly
+            # pass the QRect through the method (+ make sure the appropriate header section
+            # is visible). This can be handled in the callable method.)
+            table = target.tableWidget()
+
+            if self._visible_check:
+                if not table.isVisible():
+                    self._advance_past_invalid_step(
+                        step_title,
+                        reason=f"Table widget {table!r} is not visible.",
+                        direction=direction,
+                    )
+                    return None
+
+            # Table item
+            if table.item(target.row(), target.column()) == target:
+                table.scrollToItem(target, QAbstractItemView.ScrollHint.PositionAtCenter)
+                rect = table.visualItemRect(target)
+                top_left = table.viewport().mapTo(main_window, rect.topLeft())
+                return QRect(top_left, rect.size())
+
         self._advance_past_invalid_step(
-            step_title, reason=f"Unsupported step target type: {type(target)}"
+            step_title, reason=f"Unsupported step target type: {type(target)}", direction=direction
         )
         return None
 
-    def _advance_past_invalid_step(self, step_title: str, *, reason: str):
+    def _advance_past_invalid_step(
+        self, step_title: str, *, reason: str, direction: Literal["next"] | Literal["prev"] = "next"
+    ):
         """
         Skip the current step (or stop the tour) when the target cannot be visualised.
         """
-        logger.warning("%s Skipping step %r.", reason, step_title)
-        if self._current_index < len(self._tour_steps) - 1:
-            self._current_index += 1
-            self._show_current_step()
-        else:
-            self.stop_tour()
+        logger.warning(f"{reason} Skipping step {step_title!r}.")
+        if direction == "next":
+            if self._current_index < len(self._tour_steps) - 1:
+                self._current_index += 1
+                self._show_current_step()
+            else:
+                self.stop_tour()
+        elif direction == "prev":
+            if self._current_index > 0:
+                self._current_index -= 1
+                self._show_current_step(direction="prev")
+            else:
+                self.stop_tour()
 
     def get_registered_widgets(self) -> Dict[str, TourStep]:
         """Get all registered widgets."""
@@ -663,8 +726,33 @@ class MainWindow(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
             title="Tools Menu",
         )
 
+        sub_menu_action = self.tools_menu_actions["notes"].action
+
+        def get_sub_menu_action():
+            # open the tools menu
+            menu_button = self.tools_menu_action._button_ref()
+            if menu_button:
+                menu_button.showMenu()
+
+            return (
+                self.tools_menu_action.actions["notes"].action,
+                "This action allows you to add notes.",
+            )
+
+        sub_menu = self.guided_help.register_widget(
+            widget=get_sub_menu_action,
+            text="This is a sub-action within the tools menu.",
+            title="Add Note Action",
+        )
+
         # Create tour from registered widgets
-        self.tour_step_ids = [primary_step, secondary_step, toolbar_action_step, tools_menu_step]
+        self.tour_step_ids = [
+            sub_menu,
+            primary_step,
+            secondary_step,
+            toolbar_action_step,
+            tools_menu_step,
+        ]
         widget_ids = self.tour_step_ids
         self.guided_help.create_tour(widget_ids)
 

bec_widgets/utils/help_inspector/help_inspector.py

@@ -129,7 +129,7 @@ class HelpInspector(BECWidget, QtWidgets.QWidget):
                 # TODO check what happens if the HELP Inspector itself is embedded in another BECWidget
                 # I suppose we would like to get the first ancestor that is a BECWidget, not the topmost one
                 if not isinstance(widget, BECWidget):
-                    widget = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(widget)
+                    widget = WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(widget)
                 if widget:
                     if widget is self:
                         self._toggle_mode(False)

bec_widgets/utils/plugin_utils.py

@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ from dataclasses import dataclass
 from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Iterable
 
 from bec_lib.plugin_helper import _get_available_plugins
-from qtpy.QtWidgets import QGraphicsWidget, QWidget
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
 
 from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
 from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
@@ -166,18 +166,17 @@ class BECClassContainer:
         return [info.obj for info in self.collection]
 
 
-def get_custom_classes(repo_name: str) -> BECClassContainer:
-    """
-    Get all RPC-enabled classes in the specified repository.
-
-    Args:
-        repo_name(str): The name of the repository.
-
-    Returns:
-        dict: A dictionary with keys "connector_classes" and "top_level_classes" and values as lists of classes.
-    """
+def _collect_classes_from_package(repo_name: str, package: str) -> BECClassContainer:
+    """Collect classes from a package subtree (for example ``widgets`` or ``applications``)."""
     collection = BECClassContainer()
-    anchor_module = importlib.import_module(f"{repo_name}.widgets")
+    try:
+        anchor_module = importlib.import_module(f"{repo_name}.{package}")
+    except ModuleNotFoundError as exc:
+        # Some plugin repositories expose only one subtree. Skip gracefully if it does not exist.
+        if exc.name == f"{repo_name}.{package}":
+            return collection
+        raise
+
     directory = os.path.dirname(anchor_module.__file__)
     for root, _, files in sorted(os.walk(directory)):
         for file in files:
@@ -185,13 +184,13 @@ def get_custom_classes(repo_name: str) -> BECClassContainer:
                 continue
 
             path = os.path.join(root, file)
-            subs = os.path.dirname(os.path.relpath(path, directory)).split("/")
-            if len(subs) == 1 and not subs[0]:
+            rel_dir = os.path.dirname(os.path.relpath(path, directory))
+            if rel_dir in ("", "."):
                 module_name = file.split(".")[0]
             else:
-                module_name = ".".join(subs + [file.split(".")[0]])
+                module_name = ".".join(rel_dir.split(os.sep) + [file.split(".")[0]])
 
-            module = importlib.import_module(f"{repo_name}.widgets.{module_name}")
+            module = importlib.import_module(f"{repo_name}.{package}.{module_name}")
 
             for name in dir(module):
                 obj = getattr(module, name)
@@ -203,12 +202,30 @@ def get_custom_classes(repo_name: str) -> BECClassContainer:
                         class_info.is_connector = True
                     if issubclass(obj, QWidget) or issubclass(obj, BECWidget):
                         class_info.is_widget = True
-                    if len(subs) == 1 and (
-                        issubclass(obj, QWidget) or issubclass(obj, QGraphicsWidget)
-                    ):
-                        class_info.is_top_level = True
                     if hasattr(obj, "PLUGIN") and obj.PLUGIN:
                         class_info.is_plugin = True
                     collection.add_class(class_info)
-
+    return collection
+
+
+def get_custom_classes(
+    repo_name: str, packages: tuple[str, ...] | None = None
+) -> BECClassContainer:
+    """
+    Get all relevant classes for RPC/CLI in the specified repository.
+
+    By default, discovery is limited to ``<repo>.widgets`` for backward compatibility.
+    Additional package subtrees (for example ``applications``) can be included explicitly.
+
+    Args:
+        repo_name(str): The name of the repository.
+        packages(tuple[str, ...] | None): Optional tuple of package names to scan. Defaults to ("widgets",) for backward compatibility.
+
+    Returns:
+        BECClassContainer: Container with collected class information.
+    """
+    selected_packages = packages or ("widgets",)
+    collection = BECClassContainer()
+    for package in selected_packages:
+        collection += _collect_classes_from_package(repo_name, package)
     return collection

bec_widgets/utils/round_frame.py

@@ -69,13 +69,11 @@ class RoundedFrame(QFrame):
         """
         Update the style of the frame based on the background color.
         """
-        self.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self.setStyleSheet(f"""
                 QFrame#roundedFrame {{
                     border-radius: {self._radius}px;
                 }}
-            """
-        )
+            """)
         self.apply_plot_widget_style()
 
     def apply_plot_widget_style(self, border: str = "none"):

bec_widgets/utils/rpc_server.py

@@ -4,20 +4,24 @@ import functools
 import traceback
 import types
 from contextlib import contextmanager
-from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Callable, TypeVar
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Callable, Literal, TypeVar
 
 from bec_lib.client import BECClient
 from bec_lib.endpoints import MessageEndpoints
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.utils.import_utils import lazy_import
 from qtpy.QtCore import Qt, QTimer
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
 from redis.exceptions import RedisError
 
 from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_register import RPCRegister
 from bec_widgets.utils import BECDispatcher
 from bec_widgets.utils.bec_connector import BECConnector
+from bec_widgets.utils.container_utils import WidgetContainerUtils
 from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import ErrorPopupUtility
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindow
+from bec_widgets.utils.screen_utils import apply_window_geometry
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.dock_area import BECDockArea
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindow, BECMainWindowNoRPC
 
 if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
     from bec_lib import messages
@@ -114,11 +118,17 @@ class RPCServer:
         logger.debug(f"Received RPC instruction: {msg}, metadata: {metadata}")
         with rpc_exception_hook(functools.partial(self.send_response, request_id, False)):
             try:
-                obj = self.get_object_from_config(msg["parameter"])
+                logger.info(
+                    f"Processing RPC instruction: {msg['action']} with request_id: {request_id}. Parameters: {msg.get('parameter')}"
+                )
                 method = msg["action"]
                 args = msg["parameter"].get("args", [])
                 kwargs = msg["parameter"].get("kwargs", {})
-                res = self.run_rpc(obj, method, args, kwargs)
+                if method.startswith("system."):
+                    res = self.run_system_rpc(method, args, kwargs)
+                else:
+                    obj = self.get_object_from_config(msg["parameter"])
+                    res = self.run_rpc(obj, method, args, kwargs)
             except Exception:
                 content = traceback.format_exc()
                 logger.error(f"Error while executing RPC instruction: {content}")
@@ -174,18 +184,100 @@ class RPCServer:
                 obj.show()
                 res = None
             else:
-                method_obj = getattr(obj, method)
+                target_obj, method_obj = self._resolve_rpc_target(obj, method)
                 # check if the method accepts args and kwargs
                 if not callable(method_obj):
                     if not args:
                         res = method_obj
                     else:
-                        setattr(obj, method, args[0])
+                        setattr(target_obj, method, args[0])
                         res = None
                 else:
                     res = method_obj(*args, **kwargs)
         return res
 
+    def _resolve_rpc_target(self, obj, method: str) -> tuple[object, object]:
+        """
+        Resolve a method/property access target for RPC execution.
+
+        Primary target is the object itself. If not found there and the class defines
+        ``RPC_CONTENT_CLASS``, unresolved method names can be delegated to the content
+        widget referenced by ``RPC_CONTENT_ATTR`` (default ``content``), but only when
+        the method is explicitly listed in the content class ``USER_ACCESS``.
+        """
+        if hasattr(obj, method):
+            return obj, getattr(obj, method)
+
+        content_cls = getattr(type(obj), "RPC_CONTENT_CLASS", None)
+        if content_cls is None:
+            raise AttributeError(f"{type(obj).__name__} has no attribute '{method}'")
+
+        content_user_access = set()
+        for entry in getattr(content_cls, "USER_ACCESS", []):
+            if entry.endswith(".setter"):
+                content_user_access.add(entry.split(".setter")[0])
+            else:
+                content_user_access.add(entry)
+
+        if method not in content_user_access:
+            raise AttributeError(f"{type(obj).__name__} has no attribute '{method}'")
+
+        content_attr = getattr(type(obj), "RPC_CONTENT_ATTR", "content")
+        target_obj = getattr(obj, content_attr, None)
+        if target_obj is None:
+            raise AttributeError(
+                f"{type(obj).__name__} has no content target '{content_attr}' for RPC delegation"
+            )
+        if not isinstance(target_obj, content_cls):
+            raise AttributeError(
+                f"{type(obj).__name__}.{content_attr} is not instance of {content_cls.__name__}"
+            )
+        if not hasattr(target_obj, method):
+            raise AttributeError(f"{content_cls.__name__} has no attribute '{method}'")
+        return target_obj, getattr(target_obj, method)
+
+    def run_system_rpc(self, method: str, args: list, kwargs: dict):
+        if method == "system.launch_dock_area":
+            return self._launch_dock_area(*args, **kwargs)
+        if method == "system.list_capabilities":
+            return {"system.launch_dock_area": True}
+        raise ValueError(f"Unknown system RPC method: {method}")
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _launch_dock_area(
+        name: str | None = None,
+        geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None = None,
+        startup_profile: str | Literal["restore", "skip"] | None = None,
+    ) -> QWidget | None:
+        from bec_widgets.applications import bw_launch
+
+        with RPCRegister.delayed_broadcast() as rpc_register:
+            existing_dock_areas = rpc_register.get_names_of_rpc_by_class_type(BECDockArea)
+            if name is not None:
+                WidgetContainerUtils.raise_for_invalid_name(name)
+                if name in existing_dock_areas:
+                    name = WidgetContainerUtils.generate_unique_name(name, existing_dock_areas)
+            else:
+                name = WidgetContainerUtils.generate_unique_name("dock_area", existing_dock_areas)
+
+            logger.info(
+                f"Launching new dock area with name: {name} and startup_profile: {startup_profile}"
+            )
+
+            result_widget = bw_launch.dock_area(object_name=name, startup_profile=startup_profile)
+            result_widget.window().setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {name}")
+
+            if isinstance(result_widget, BECMainWindow):
+                apply_window_geometry(result_widget, geometry)
+                result_widget.show()
+            else:
+                window = BECMainWindowNoRPC()
+                window.setCentralWidget(result_widget)
+                window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {result_widget.objectName()}")
+                apply_window_geometry(window, geometry)
+                window.show()
+            return result_widget
+
     def serialize_result_and_send(self, request_id: str, res: object):
         """
         Serialize the result of an RPC call and send it back to the client.
@@ -211,6 +303,9 @@ class RPCServer:
             else:
                 res = self.serialize_object(res)
         except RegistryNotReadyError:
+            logger.info(
+                f"Object not registered yet for RPC request {request_id}, retrying serialization after {retry_delay} ms"
+            )
             try:
                 self._rpc_singleshot_repeats[request_id] += retry_delay
                 QTimer.singleShot(
@@ -255,6 +350,9 @@ class RPCServer:
         # Respect RPC = False
         if getattr(obj, "RPC", True) is False:
             return None
+        # Respect rpc_exposed = False
+        if getattr(obj, "rpc_exposed", True) is False:
+            return None
         return self._serialize_bec_connector(obj, wait=True)
 
     def emit_heartbeat(self) -> None:
@@ -283,6 +381,8 @@ class RPCServer:
                 continue
             if not getattr(val, "RPC", True):
                 continue
+            if not getattr(val, "rpc_exposed", True):
+                continue
             data[key] = self._serialize_bec_connector(val)
         if self._broadcasted_data == data:
             return
@@ -333,23 +433,9 @@ class RPCServer:
             "widget_class": widget_class,
             "config": config_dict,
             "container_proxy": container_proxy,
-            "__rpc__": True,
+            "__rpc__": getattr(connector, "rpc_exposed", True),
         }
 
-    @staticmethod
-    def _get_becwidget_ancestor(widget: QObject) -> BECConnector | None:
-        """
-        Traverse up the parent chain to find the nearest BECConnector.
-        Returns None if none is found.
-        """
-
-        parent = widget.parent()
-        while parent is not None:
-            if isinstance(parent, BECConnector):
-                return parent
-            parent = parent.parent()
-        return None
-
     # Suppose clients register callbacks to receive updates
     def add_registry_update_callback(self, cb: Callable) -> None:
         """

bec_widgets/utils/screen_utils.py

@@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
+
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication, QWidget
+
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from qtpy.QtCore import QRect
+
+
+def available_screen_geometry(*, widget: QWidget | None = None) -> QRect | None:
+    """
+    Get the available geometry of the screen associated with the given widget or application.
+
+    Args:
+        widget(QWidget | None): The widget to get the screen from.
+    Returns:
+        QRect | None: The available geometry of the screen, or None if no screen is found.
+    """
+    screen = widget.screen() if widget is not None else None
+    if screen is None:
+        app = QApplication.instance()
+        screen = app.primaryScreen() if app is not None else None
+    if screen is None:
+        return None
+    return screen.availableGeometry()
+
+
+def centered_geometry(available: "QRect", width: int, height: int) -> tuple[int, int, int, int]:
+    """
+    Calculate centered geometry within the available rectangle.
+
+    Args:
+        available(QRect): The available rectangle to center within.
+        width(int): The desired width.
+        height(int): The desired height.
+
+    Returns:
+        tuple[int, int, int, int]: The (x, y, width, height) of the centered geometry.
+    """
+    x = available.x() + (available.width() - width) // 2
+    y = available.y() + (available.height() - height) // 2
+    return x, y, width, height
+
+
+def centered_geometry_for_app(width: int, height: int) -> tuple[int, int, int, int] | None:
+    available = available_screen_geometry()
+    if available is None:
+        return None
+    return centered_geometry(available, width, height)
+
+
+def scaled_centered_geometry_for_window(
+    window: QWidget, *, width_ratio: float = 0.8, height_ratio: float = 0.8
+) -> tuple[int, int, int, int] | None:
+    available = available_screen_geometry(widget=window)
+    if available is None:
+        return None
+    width = int(available.width() * width_ratio)
+    height = int(available.height() * height_ratio)
+    return centered_geometry(available, width, height)
+
+
+def apply_window_geometry(
+    window: QWidget,
+    geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None,
+    *,
+    width_ratio: float = 0.8,
+    height_ratio: float = 0.8,
+) -> None:
+    if geometry is not None:
+        window.setGeometry(*geometry)
+        return
+    default_geometry = scaled_centered_geometry_for_window(
+        window, width_ratio=width_ratio, height_ratio=height_ratio
+    )
+    if default_geometry is not None:
+        window.setGeometry(*default_geometry)
+    else:
+        window.resize(window.minimumSizeHint())
+
+
+def main_app_size_for_screen(available: "QRect") -> tuple[int, int]:
+    height = int(available.height() * 0.9)
+    width = int(height * (16 / 9))
+    if width > available.width() * 0.9:
+        width = int(available.width() * 0.9)
+        height = int(width / (16 / 9))
+    return width, height
+
+
+def apply_centered_size(
+    window: QWidget, width: int, height: int, *, available: "QRect" | None = None
+) -> None:
+    if available is None:
+        available = available_screen_geometry(widget=window)
+    if available is None:
+        window.resize(width, height)
+        return
+    window.setGeometry(*centered_geometry(available, width, height))

bec_widgets/utils/toolbars/actions.py

@@ -599,16 +599,14 @@ class ExpandableMenuAction(ToolBarAction):
             button.setIcon(QIcon(self.icon_path))
         button.setText(self.tooltip)
         button.setPopupMode(QToolButton.ToolButtonPopupMode.InstantPopup)
-        button.setStyleSheet(
-            """
+        button.setStyleSheet("""
                    QToolButton {
                        font-size: 14px;
                    }
                    QMenu {
                        font-size: 14px;
                    }
-               """
-        )
+               """)
         menu = QMenu(button)
         for action_container in self.actions.values():
             action: QAction = action_container.action

bec_widgets/utils/toolbars/splitter.py

@@ -106,8 +106,7 @@ class ResizableSpacer(QWidget):
 
         self.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed)
 
-        self.setStyleSheet(
-            """
+        self.setStyleSheet("""
             ResizableSpacer {
                 background-color: transparent;
                 margin: 0px;
@@ -117,8 +116,7 @@ class ResizableSpacer(QWidget):
             ResizableSpacer:hover {
                 background-color: rgba(100, 100, 200, 80);
             }
-        """
-        )
+        """)
 
         self.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
 

bec_widgets/utils/toolbars/toolbar.py

@@ -291,8 +291,7 @@ class ModularToolBar(QToolBar):
         menu = QMenu(self)
         theme = get_theme_name()
         if theme == "dark":
-            menu.setStyleSheet(
-                """
+            menu.setStyleSheet("""
                 QMenu {
                     background-color: rgba(50, 50, 50, 0.9);
                     border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2);
@@ -300,12 +299,10 @@ class ModularToolBar(QToolBar):
                 QMenu::item:selected {
                     background-color: rgba(0, 0, 255, 0.2);
                 }
-            """
-            )
+            """)
         else:
             # Light theme styling
-            menu.setStyleSheet(
-                """
+            menu.setStyleSheet("""
                 QMenu {
                     background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.9);
                     border: 1px solid rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2);
@@ -313,8 +310,7 @@ class ModularToolBar(QToolBar):
                 QMenu::item:selected {
                     background-color: rgba(0, 0, 255, 0.2);
                 }
-            """
-            )
+            """)
         for ii, bundle in enumerate(self.shown_bundles):
             self.handle_bundle_context_menu(menu, bundle)
             if ii < len(self.shown_bundles) - 1:

bec_widgets/utils/widget_highlighter.py

@@ -0,0 +1,95 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import shiboken6
+from qtpy.QtCore import QPropertyAnimation, QRect, QSequentialAnimationGroup, Qt
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QFrame, QWidget
+
+
+class WidgetHighlighter:
+    """
+    Utility that highlights widgets by drawing a temporary frame around them.
+    """
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        *,
+        frame_parent: QWidget | None = None,
+        window_flags: Qt.WindowType | Qt.WindowFlags = Qt.WindowType.Tool
+        | Qt.WindowType.FramelessWindowHint
+        | Qt.WindowType.WindowStaysOnTopHint,
+        style_sheet: str = "border: 2px solid #FF00FF; border-radius: 6px; background: transparent;",
+    ) -> None:
+        self._frame_parent = frame_parent
+        self._window_flags = window_flags
+        self._style_sheet = style_sheet
+        self._frame: QFrame | None = None
+        self._animation_group: QSequentialAnimationGroup | None = None
+
+    def highlight(self, widget: QWidget | None) -> None:
+        """
+        Highlight the given widget with a pulsing frame.
+        """
+        if widget is None or not shiboken6.isValid(widget):
+            return
+
+        frame = self._ensure_frame()
+        frame.hide()
+
+        geom = widget.frameGeometry()
+        top_left = widget.mapToGlobal(widget.rect().topLeft())
+        frame.setGeometry(top_left.x(), top_left.y(), geom.width(), geom.height())
+        frame.setWindowOpacity(1.0)
+        frame.show()
+
+        start_rect = QRect(
+            top_left.x() - 5, top_left.y() - 5, geom.width() + 10, geom.height() + 10
+        )
+
+        pulse = QPropertyAnimation(frame, b"geometry", frame)
+        pulse.setDuration(300)
+        pulse.setStartValue(start_rect)
+        pulse.setEndValue(QRect(top_left.x(), top_left.y(), geom.width(), geom.height()))
+
+        fade = QPropertyAnimation(frame, b"windowOpacity", frame)
+        fade.setDuration(2000)
+        fade.setStartValue(1.0)
+        fade.setEndValue(0.0)
+        fade.finished.connect(frame.hide)
+
+        if self._animation_group is not None:
+            old_group = self._animation_group
+            self._animation_group = None
+            old_group.stop()
+            old_group.deleteLater()
+
+        animation = QSequentialAnimationGroup(frame)
+        animation.addAnimation(pulse)
+        animation.addAnimation(fade)
+        animation.start()
+
+        self._animation_group = animation
+
+    def cleanup(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Delete the highlight frame and cancel pending animations.
+        """
+        if self._animation_group is not None:
+            self._animation_group.stop()
+            self._animation_group.deleteLater()
+            self._animation_group = None
+        if self._frame is not None:
+            self._frame.hide()
+            self._frame.deleteLater()
+            self._frame = None
+
+    @property
+    def frame(self) -> QFrame | None:
+        """Return the currently allocated highlight frame (if any)."""
+        return self._frame
+
+    def _ensure_frame(self) -> QFrame:
+        if self._frame is None:
+            self._frame = QFrame(self._frame_parent, self._window_flags)
+            self._frame.setAttribute(Qt.WidgetAttribute.WA_TransparentForMouseEvents)
+            self._frame.setStyleSheet(self._style_sheet)
+        return self._frame

bec_widgets/utils/widget_io.py

@@ -2,10 +2,12 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
 from abc import ABC, abstractmethod
+from dataclasses import dataclass
 from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Type, TypeVar, cast
 
 import shiboken6 as shb
 from bec_lib import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import Qt
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QApplication,
     QCheckBox,
@@ -31,6 +33,14 @@ logger = bec_logger.logger
 TAncestor = TypeVar("TAncestor", bound=QWidget)
 
 
+@dataclass(frozen=True)
+class WidgetTreeNode:
+    widget: QWidget
+    parent: QWidget | None
+    depth: int
+    prefix: str
+
+
 class WidgetHandler(ABC):
     """Abstract base class for all widget handlers."""
 
@@ -320,6 +330,72 @@ class WidgetIO:
 
 
 class WidgetHierarchy:
+    @staticmethod
+    def iter_widget_tree(widget: QWidget, *, exclude_internal_widgets: bool = True):
+        """
+        Yield WidgetTreeNode entries for the widget hierarchy.
+        """
+        visited: set[int] = set()
+        yield from WidgetHierarchy._iter_widget_tree_nodes(
+            widget, None, exclude_internal_widgets, visited, [], 0
+        )
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _iter_widget_tree_nodes(
+        widget: QWidget,
+        parent: QWidget | None,
+        exclude_internal_widgets: bool,
+        visited: set[int],
+        branch_flags: list[bool],
+        depth: int,
+    ):
+        if widget is None or not shb.isValid(widget):
+            return
+        widget_id = id(widget)
+        if widget_id in visited:
+            return
+        visited.add(widget_id)
+
+        prefix = WidgetHierarchy._build_prefix(branch_flags)
+        yield WidgetTreeNode(widget=widget, parent=parent, depth=depth, prefix=prefix)
+
+        children = WidgetHierarchy._filtered_children(widget, exclude_internal_widgets)
+        for idx, child in enumerate(children):
+            is_last = idx == len(children) - 1
+            yield from WidgetHierarchy._iter_widget_tree_nodes(
+                child,
+                widget,
+                exclude_internal_widgets,
+                visited,
+                branch_flags + [is_last],
+                depth + 1,
+            )
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _build_prefix(branch_flags: list[bool]) -> str:
+        if not branch_flags:
+            return ""
+        parts: list[str] = []
+        for flag in branch_flags[:-1]:
+            parts.append("   " if flag else "│  ")
+        parts.append("└─ " if branch_flags[-1] else "├─ ")
+        return "".join(parts)
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _filtered_children(widget: QWidget, exclude_internal_widgets: bool) -> list[QWidget]:
+        children: list[QWidget] = []
+        for child in widget.findChildren(QWidget, options=Qt.FindDirectChildrenOnly):
+            if not shb.isValid(child):
+                continue
+            if (
+                exclude_internal_widgets
+                and isinstance(widget, QComboBox)
+                and child.__class__.__name__ in ["QFrame", "QBoxLayout", "QListView"]
+            ):
+                continue
+            children.append(child)
+        return children
+
     @staticmethod
     def print_widget_hierarchy(
         widget,
@@ -345,52 +421,33 @@ class WidgetHierarchy:
         from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
         from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.waveform.waveform import Waveform
 
-        # 1) Filter out widgets that are not BECConnectors (if 'only_bec_widgets' is True)
-        is_bec = isinstance(widget, BECConnector)
-        if only_bec_widgets and not is_bec:
-            return
-
-        # 2) Determine and print the parent's info (closest BECConnector)
-        parent_info = ""
-        if show_parent and is_bec:
-            ancestor = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(widget)
-            if ancestor:
-                parent_label = ancestor.objectName() or ancestor.__class__.__name__
-                parent_info = f" parent={parent_label}"
-            else:
-                parent_info = " parent=None"
-
-        widget_info = f"{widget.__class__.__name__} ({widget.objectName()}){parent_info}"
-        print(prefix + widget_info)
-
-        # 3) If it's a Waveform, explicitly print the curves
-        if isinstance(widget, Waveform):
-            for curve in widget.curves:
-                curve_prefix = prefix + "  └─ "
-                print(
-                    f"{curve_prefix}{curve.__class__.__name__} ({curve.objectName()}) "
-                    f"parent={widget.objectName()}"
-                )
-
-        # 4) Recursively handle each child if:
-        #    - It's a QWidget
-        #    - It is a BECConnector (or we don't care about filtering)
-        #    - Its closest BECConnector parent is the current widget
-        for child in widget.findChildren(QWidget):
-            if only_bec_widgets and not isinstance(child, BECConnector):
+        for node in WidgetHierarchy.iter_widget_tree(
+            widget, exclude_internal_widgets=exclude_internal_widgets
+        ):
+            current = node.widget
+            is_bec = isinstance(current, BECConnector)
+            if only_bec_widgets and not is_bec:
                 continue
 
-            # if WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(child) == widget:
-            child_prefix = prefix + "  └─ "
-            WidgetHierarchy.print_widget_hierarchy(
-                child,
-                indent=indent + 1,
-                grab_values=grab_values,
-                prefix=child_prefix,
-                exclude_internal_widgets=exclude_internal_widgets,
-                only_bec_widgets=only_bec_widgets,
-                show_parent=show_parent,
-            )
+            parent_info = ""
+            if show_parent and is_bec:
+                ancestor = WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(current)
+                if ancestor:
+                    parent_label = ancestor.objectName() or ancestor.__class__.__name__
+                    parent_info = f" parent={parent_label}"
+                else:
+                    parent_info = " parent=None"
+
+            widget_info = f"{current.__class__.__name__} ({current.objectName()}){parent_info}"
+            print(node.prefix + widget_info)
+
+            if isinstance(current, Waveform):
+                for curve in current.curves:
+                    curve_prefix = node.prefix + "   "
+                    print(
+                        f"{curve_prefix}└─ {curve.__class__.__name__} ({curve.objectName()}) "
+                        f"parent={current.objectName()}"
+                    )
 
     @staticmethod
     def print_becconnector_hierarchy_from_app():
@@ -430,7 +487,7 @@ class WidgetHierarchy:
         # 3) Build a map of (closest BECConnector parent) -> list of children
         parent_map = defaultdict(list)
         for w in bec_widgets:
-            parent_bec = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(w)
+            parent_bec = WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(w)
             parent_map[parent_bec].append(w)
 
         # 4) Define a recursive printer to show each object's children
@@ -467,10 +524,15 @@ class WidgetHierarchy:
             print_tree(root, prefix="   ")
 
     @staticmethod
-    def _get_becwidget_ancestor(widget):
+    def get_becwidget_ancestor(widget):
         """
         Traverse up the parent chain to find the nearest BECConnector.
-        Returns None if none is found.
+
+        Args:
+            widget: Starting widget to find the ancestor for.
+
+        Returns:
+            The nearest ancestor that is a BECConnector, or None if not found.
         """
         from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
 
@@ -580,7 +642,7 @@ class WidgetHierarchy:
         if isinstance(widget, BECConnector):
             connectors.append(widget)
         for child in widget.findChildren(BECConnector):
-            if WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(child) is widget:
+            if WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(child) is widget:
                 connectors.append(child)
         return connectors
 
@@ -611,7 +673,7 @@ class WidgetHierarchy:
                 is_bec_target = issubclass(ancestor_class, BECConnector)
 
             if is_bec_target:
-                ancestor = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(widget)
+                ancestor = WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(widget)
                 return cast(TAncestor, ancestor)
         except Exception as e:
             logger.error(f"Error importing BECConnector: {e}")

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/auto_update/auto_updates.py

@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.messages import ScanStatusMessage
 
 from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.advanced_dock_area import AdvancedDockArea
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.dock_area import BECDockArea
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindow
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.qt_ads import CDockWidget
 
@@ -37,16 +37,16 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
     ):
         super().__init__(parent=parent, gui_id=gui_id, window_title=window_title, **kwargs)
 
-        self.dock_area = AdvancedDockArea(
+        self.dock_area = BECDockArea(
             parent=self,
             object_name="dock_area",
             enable_profile_management=False,
-            restore_initial_profile=False,
+            startup_profile="skip",
         )
         self.setCentralWidget(self.dock_area)
         self._auto_update_selected_device: str | None = None
 
-        self._default_dock = None  # type:ignore
+        self._default_dock = None  # type: ignore
         self.current_widget: BECWidget | None = None
         self.dock_name = None
         self._enabled = True
@@ -63,7 +63,7 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         Disconnect all connections for the auto updates.
         """
         self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(
-            self._on_scan_status, MessageEndpoints.scan_status()  # type:ignore
+            self._on_scan_status, MessageEndpoints.scan_status()  # type: ignore
         )
 
     @property
@@ -244,10 +244,10 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         wf = self.set_dock_to_widget("Waveform")
 
         # Get the scan report devices reported by the scan
-        dev_x = info.scan_report_devices[0]  # type:ignore
+        dev_x = info.scan_report_devices[0]  # type: ignore
 
         # For the y axis, get the selected device
-        dev_y = self.get_selected_device(info.readout_priority["monitored"])  # type:ignore
+        dev_y = self.get_selected_device(info.readout_priority["monitored"])  # type: ignore
         if not dev_y:
             return
 
@@ -256,8 +256,8 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         # as the label and title
         wf.clear_all()
         wf.plot(
-            x_name=dev_x,
-            y_name=dev_y,
+            device_x=dev_x,
+            device_y=dev_y,
             label=f"Scan {info.scan_number} - {dev_y}",
             title=f"Scan {info.scan_number}",
             x_label=dev_x,
@@ -265,7 +265,7 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         )
 
         logger.info(
-            f"Auto Update [simple_line_scan]: Started plot with: x_name={dev_x}, y_name={dev_y}"
+            f"Auto Update [simple_line_scan]: Started plot with: device_x={dev_x}, device_y={dev_y}"
         )
 
     def simple_grid_scan(self, info: ScanStatusMessage) -> None:
@@ -279,8 +279,8 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         scatter = self.set_dock_to_widget("ScatterWaveform")
 
         # Get the scan report devices reported by the scan
-        dev_x, dev_y = info.scan_report_devices[0], info.scan_report_devices[1]  # type:ignore
-        dev_z = self.get_selected_device(info.readout_priority["monitored"])  # type:ignore
+        dev_x, dev_y = info.scan_report_devices[0], info.scan_report_devices[1]  # type: ignore
+        dev_z = self.get_selected_device(info.readout_priority["monitored"])  # type: ignore
 
         if None in (dev_x, dev_y, dev_z):
             return
@@ -288,11 +288,14 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         # Clear the scatter waveform widget and plot the data
         scatter.clear_all()
         scatter.plot(
-            x_name=dev_x, y_name=dev_y, z_name=dev_z, label=f"Scan {info.scan_number} - {dev_z}"
+            device_x=dev_x,
+            device_y=dev_y,
+            device_z=dev_z,
+            label=f"Scan {info.scan_number} - {dev_z}",
         )
 
         logger.info(
-            f"Auto Update [simple_grid_scan]: Started plot with: x_name={dev_x}, y_name={dev_y}, z_name={dev_z}"
+            f"Auto Update [simple_grid_scan]: Started plot with: device_x={dev_x}, device_y={dev_y}, device_z={dev_z}"
         )
 
     def best_effort(self, info: ScanStatusMessage) -> None:
@@ -306,8 +309,8 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         # If the scan report devices are empty, there is nothing we can do
         if not info.scan_report_devices:
             return
-        dev_x = info.scan_report_devices[0]  # type:ignore
-        dev_y = self.get_selected_device(info.readout_priority["monitored"])  # type:ignore
+        dev_x = info.scan_report_devices[0]  # type: ignore
+        dev_y = self.get_selected_device(info.readout_priority["monitored"])  # type: ignore
         if not dev_y:
             return
 
@@ -317,15 +320,17 @@ class AutoUpdates(BECMainWindow):
         # Clear the waveform widget and plot the data
         wf.clear_all()
         wf.plot(
-            x_name=dev_x,
-            y_name=dev_y,
+            device_x=dev_x,
+            device_y=dev_y,
             label=f"Scan {info.scan_number} - {dev_y}",
             title=f"Scan {info.scan_number}",
             x_label=dev_x,
             y_label=dev_y,
         )
 
-        logger.info(f"Auto Update [best_effort]: Started plot with: x_name={dev_x}, y_name={dev_y}")
+        logger.info(
+            f"Auto Update [best_effort]: Started plot with: device_x={dev_x}, device_y={dev_y}"
+        )
 
     #######################################################################
     ################# GUI Callbacks #######################################

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/dock_area/basic_dock_area.py

@@ -14,6 +14,7 @@ from shiboken6 import isValid
 import bec_widgets.widgets.containers.qt_ads as QtAds
 from bec_widgets import BECWidget, SafeSlot
 from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_widget_handler import widget_handler
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_connector import BECConnector
 from bec_widgets.utils.property_editor import PropertyEditor
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.actions import MaterialIconAction
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.qt_ads import (
@@ -112,6 +113,7 @@ class DockAreaWidget(BECWidget, QWidget):
         )
 
         self._root_layout.addWidget(self.dock_manager, 1)
+        self._install_manager_parent_guards()
 
     ################################################################################
     # Dock Utility Helpers
@@ -254,6 +256,54 @@ class DockAreaWidget(BECWidget, QWidget):
 
         return lambda dock: self._default_close_handler(dock, widget)
 
+    def _install_manager_parent_guards(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Track ADS structural changes so drag/drop-created tab areas keep stable parenting.
+        """
+        self.dock_manager.dockAreaCreated.connect(self._normalize_all_dock_parents)
+        self.dock_manager.dockWidgetAdded.connect(self._normalize_all_dock_parents)
+        self.dock_manager.stateRestored.connect(self._normalize_all_dock_parents)
+        self.dock_manager.restoringState.connect(self._normalize_all_dock_parents)
+        self.dock_manager.focusedDockWidgetChanged.connect(self._normalize_all_dock_parents)
+        self._normalize_all_dock_parents()
+
+    def _iter_all_dock_areas(self) -> list[CDockAreaWidget]:
+        """Return all dock areas from all known dock containers."""
+        areas: list[CDockAreaWidget] = []
+        for i in range(self.dock_manager.dockAreaCount()):
+            area = self.dock_manager.dockArea(i)
+            if area is None or not isValid(area):
+                continue
+            areas.append(area)
+        return areas
+
+    def _connect_dock_area_parent_guards(self) -> None:
+        """Bind area-level tab/view events to parent normalization."""
+        for area in self._iter_all_dock_areas():
+            try:
+                area.currentChanged.connect(
+                    self._normalize_all_dock_parents, Qt.ConnectionType.UniqueConnection
+                )
+                area.viewToggled.connect(
+                    self._normalize_all_dock_parents, Qt.ConnectionType.UniqueConnection
+                )
+            except TypeError:
+                area.currentChanged.connect(self._normalize_all_dock_parents)
+                area.viewToggled.connect(self._normalize_all_dock_parents)
+
+    def _normalize_all_dock_parents(self, *_args) -> None:
+        """
+        Ensure each dock has a stable parent after tab switches, re-docking, or restore.
+        """
+        self._connect_dock_area_parent_guards()
+        for dock in self.dock_list():
+            if dock is None or not isValid(dock):
+                continue
+            area_widget = dock.dockAreaWidget()
+            target_parent = area_widget if area_widget is not None else self.dock_manager
+            if dock.parent() is not target_parent:
+                dock.setParent(target_parent)
+
     def _make_dock(
         self,
         widget: QWidget,
@@ -356,6 +406,7 @@ class DockAreaWidget(BECWidget, QWidget):
                 self._apply_floating_state_to_dock(dock, floating_state)
         if resolved_icon is not None:
             dock.setIcon(resolved_icon)
+        self._normalize_all_dock_parents()
         return dock
 
     def _delete_dock(self, dock: CDockWidget) -> None:
@@ -1264,7 +1315,7 @@ class DockAreaWidget(BECWidget, QWidget):
                 or a sequence of button names to hide.
             show_settings_action(bool | None): Control whether a dock settings/property action should
                 be installed. Defaults to ``False`` for the basic dock area; subclasses
-                such as `AdvancedDockArea` override the default to ``True``.
+                such as `BECDockArea` override the default to ``True``.
             promote_central(bool): When True, promote the created dock to be the dock manager's
                 central widget (useful for editor stacks or other root content).
             dock_icon(QIcon | None): Optional icon applied to the dock via ``CDockWidget.setIcon``.
@@ -1334,37 +1385,40 @@ class DockAreaWidget(BECWidget, QWidget):
         dock = self._create_dock_from_spec(spec)
         return dock if return_dock else widget
 
-    def _iter_all_docks(self) -> list[CDockWidget]:
-        """Return all docks, including those hosted in floating containers."""
-        docks = list(self.dock_manager.dockWidgets())
-        seen = {id(d) for d in docks}
-        for container in self.dock_manager.floatingWidgets():
-            if container is None:
-                continue
-            for dock in container.dockWidgets():
-                if dock is None:
-                    continue
-                if id(dock) in seen:
-                    continue
-                docks.append(dock)
-                seen.add(id(dock))
-        return docks
-
     def dock_map(self) -> dict[str, CDockWidget]:
         """Return the dock widgets map as dictionary with names as keys."""
-        return {dock.objectName(): dock for dock in self._iter_all_docks() if dock.objectName()}
+        return self.dock_manager.dockWidgetsMap()
 
     def dock_list(self) -> list[CDockWidget]:
         """Return the list of dock widgets."""
-        return self._iter_all_docks()
+        return list(self.dock_map().values())
 
-    def widget_map(self) -> dict[str, QWidget]:
-        """Return a dictionary mapping widget names to their corresponding widgets."""
-        return {dock.objectName(): dock.widget() for dock in self.dock_list()}
+    def widget_map(self, bec_widgets_only: bool = True) -> dict[str, QWidget]:
+        """
+        Return a dictionary mapping widget names to their corresponding widgets.
 
-    def widget_list(self) -> list[QWidget]:
-        """Return a list of all widgets contained in the dock area."""
-        return [dock.widget() for dock in self.dock_list() if isinstance(dock.widget(), QWidget)]
+        Args:
+            bec_widgets_only(bool): If True, only include widgets that are BECConnector instances.
+        """
+
+        widgets: dict[str, QWidget] = {}
+        for dock in self.dock_list():
+            widget = dock.widget()
+            if not isinstance(widget, QWidget):
+                continue
+            if bec_widgets_only and not isinstance(widget, BECConnector):
+                continue
+            widgets[dock.objectName()] = widget
+        return widgets
+
+    def widget_list(self, bec_widgets_only: bool = True) -> list[QWidget]:
+        """
+        Return a list of widgets contained in the dock area.
+
+        Args:
+            bec_widgets_only(bool): If True, only include widgets that are BECConnector instances.
+        """
+        return list(self.widget_map(bec_widgets_only=bec_widgets_only).values())
 
     @SafeSlot()
     def attach_all(self):

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/dock_area/dock_area.py

@@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ from typing import Literal, Mapping, Sequence
 
 import slugify
 from bec_lib import bec_logger
-from qtpy.QtCore import QTimer, Signal
+from qtpy.QtCore import Signal
 from qtpy.QtGui import QPixmap
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QApplication,
@@ -19,6 +19,7 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
 
 import bec_widgets.widgets.containers.qt_ads as QtAds
 from bec_widgets import BECWidget, SafeProperty, SafeSlot
+from bec_widgets.applications.views.view import ViewTourSteps
 from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_widget_handler import widget_handler
 from bec_widgets.utils import BECDispatcher
 from bec_widgets.utils.colors import apply_theme
@@ -31,8 +32,8 @@ from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.actions import (
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.bundles import ToolbarBundle
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.toolbar import ModularToolBar
 from bec_widgets.utils.widget_state_manager import WidgetStateManager
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.profile_utils import (
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.profile_utils import (
     SETTINGS_KEYS,
     default_profile_candidates,
     delete_profile_files,
@@ -55,14 +56,12 @@ from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.profile_utils import (
     user_profile_candidates,
     write_manifest,
 )
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.settings.dialogs import (
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.settings.dialogs import (
     RestoreProfileDialog,
     SaveProfileDialog,
 )
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.settings.workspace_manager import (
-    WorkSpaceManager,
-)
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.toolbar_components.workspace_actions import (
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.settings.workspace_manager import WorkSpaceManager
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.toolbar_components.workspace_actions import (
     WorkspaceConnection,
     workspace_bundle,
 )
@@ -88,9 +87,10 @@ logger = bec_logger.logger
 _PROFILE_NAMESPACE_UNSET = object()
 
 PROFILE_STATE_KEYS = {key: SETTINGS_KEYS[key] for key in ("geom", "state", "ads_state")}
+StartupProfile = Literal["restore", "skip"] | str | None
 
 
-class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
+class BECDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
     RPC = True
     PLUGIN = False
     USER_ACCESS = [
@@ -125,9 +125,7 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         instance_id: str | None = None,
         auto_save_upon_exit: bool = True,
         enable_profile_management: bool = True,
-        restore_initial_profile: bool = True,
-        init_profile: str | None = None,
-        start_empty: bool = False,
+        startup_profile: StartupProfile = "restore",
         **kwargs,
     ):
         self._profile_namespace_hint = profile_namespace
@@ -136,14 +134,9 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         self._instance_id = slugify.slugify(instance_id, separator="_") if instance_id else None
         self._auto_save_upon_exit = auto_save_upon_exit
         self._profile_management_enabled = enable_profile_management
-        self._restore_initial_profile = restore_initial_profile
-        self._init_profile = init_profile
-        self._start_empty = start_empty
+        self._startup_profile = self._normalize_startup_profile(startup_profile)
         super().__init__(
-            parent,
-            default_add_direction=default_add_direction,
-            title="Advanced Dock Area",
-            **kwargs,
+            parent, default_add_direction=default_add_direction, title="BEC Dock Area", **kwargs
         )
 
         # Initialize mode property first (before toolbar setup)
@@ -163,14 +156,16 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         self._root_layout.insertWidget(0, self.toolbar)
 
         # Populate and hook the workspace combo
-        self._refresh_workspace_list()
         self._current_profile_name = None
+        self._empty_profile_active = False
+        self._empty_profile_consumed = False
         self._pending_autosave_skip: tuple[str, str] | None = None
         self._exit_snapshot_written = False
+        self._refresh_workspace_list()
 
         # State manager
         self.state_manager = WidgetStateManager(
-            self, serialize_from_root=True, root_id="AdvancedDockArea"
+            self, serialize_from_root=True, root_id="BECDockArea"
         )
 
         # Developer mode state
@@ -178,84 +173,85 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         # Initialize default editable state based on current lock
         self._set_editable(True)  # default to editable; will sync toolbar toggle below
 
-        if self._ensure_initial_profile():
-            self._refresh_workspace_list()
-
         # Apply the requested mode after everything is set up
         self.mode = mode
-        if self._restore_initial_profile:
-            self._fetch_initial_profile()
+        self._fetch_initial_profile()
 
-    def _ensure_initial_profile(self) -> bool:
+    @staticmethod
+    def _normalize_startup_profile(startup_profile: StartupProfile) -> StartupProfile:
         """
-        Ensure the "general" workspace profile always exists for the current namespace.
-        The "general" profile is mandatory and will be recreated if deleted.
-        If list_profile fails due to file permission or corrupted profiles, no action taken.
-
-        Returns:
-            bool: True if a profile was created, False otherwise.
+        Normalize startup profile values.
         """
-        namespace = self.profile_namespace
-        try:
-            existing_profiles = list_profiles(namespace)
-        except Exception as exc:  # pragma: no cover - defensive guard
-            logger.warning(f"Unable to enumerate profiles for namespace '{namespace}': {exc}")
-            return False
+        if startup_profile == "":
+            return None
+        return startup_profile
 
-        # Always ensure "general" profile exists
-        name = "general"
-        if name in existing_profiles:
-            return False
-
-        logger.info(
-            f"Profile '{name}' not found in namespace '{namespace}'. Creating mandatory '{name}' workspace."
-        )
-
-        self._write_profile_settings(name, namespace, save_preview=False)
-        set_quick_select(name, True, namespace=namespace)
-        set_last_profile(name, namespace=namespace, instance=self._last_profile_instance_id())
-        return True
-
-    def _fetch_initial_profile(self):
-        # Restore last-used profile if available; otherwise fall back to combo selection
+    def _resolve_restore_startup_profile(self) -> str | None:
+        """
+        Resolve the profile name when startup profile is set to "restore".
+        """
         combo = self.toolbar.components.get_action("workspace_combo").widget
         namespace = self.profile_namespace
-        init_profile = None
 
-        # First priority: use init_profile if explicitly provided
-        if self._init_profile:
-            init_profile = self._init_profile
-        else:
-            # Try to restore from last used profile
-            instance_id = self._last_profile_instance_id()
-            if instance_id:
-                inst_profile = get_last_profile(
-                    namespace=namespace, instance=instance_id, allow_namespace_fallback=False
-                )
-                if inst_profile and self._profile_exists(inst_profile, namespace):
-                    init_profile = inst_profile
-            if not init_profile:
-                last = get_last_profile(namespace=namespace)
-                if last and self._profile_exists(last, namespace):
-                    init_profile = last
-                else:
-                    text = combo.currentText()
-                    init_profile = text if text else None
-            if not init_profile:
-                # Fall back to "general" profile which is guaranteed to exist
-                if self._profile_exists("general", namespace):
-                    init_profile = "general"
-        if init_profile:
-            self._load_initial_profile(init_profile)
+        instance_id = self._last_profile_instance_id()
+        if instance_id:
+            inst_profile = get_last_profile(
+                namespace=namespace, instance=instance_id, allow_namespace_fallback=False
+            )
+            if inst_profile and self._profile_exists(inst_profile, namespace):
+                return inst_profile
+
+        last = get_last_profile(namespace=namespace)
+        if last and self._profile_exists(last, namespace):
+            return last
+
+        combo_text = combo.currentText().strip()
+        if combo_text and self._profile_exists(combo_text, namespace):
+            return combo_text
+
+        return None
+
+    def _fetch_initial_profile(self):
+        startup_profile = self._startup_profile
+
+        if startup_profile == "skip":
+            logger.debug("Skipping startup profile initialization.")
+            return
+
+        if startup_profile == "restore":
+            restored = self._resolve_restore_startup_profile()
+            if restored:
+                self._load_initial_profile(restored)
+                return
+            self._start_empty_workspace()
+            return
+
+        if startup_profile is None:
+            self._start_empty_workspace()
+            return
+
+        self._load_initial_profile(startup_profile)
 
     def _load_initial_profile(self, name: str) -> None:
         """Load the initial profile."""
-        self.load_profile(name, start_empty=self._start_empty)
+        self.load_profile(name)
         combo = self.toolbar.components.get_action("workspace_combo").widget
         combo.blockSignals(True)
-        combo.setCurrentText(name)
+        if not self._empty_profile_active:
+            combo.setCurrentText(name)
         combo.blockSignals(False)
 
+    def _start_empty_workspace(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Initialize the dock area in transient empty-profile mode.
+        """
+        if (
+            getattr(self, "_current_profile_name", None) is None
+            and not self._empty_profile_consumed
+        ):
+            self.delete_all()
+            self._enter_empty_profile_state()
+
     def _customize_dock(self, dock: CDockWidget, widget: QWidget) -> None:
         prefs = getattr(dock, "_dock_preferences", {}) or {}
         if prefs.get("show_settings_action") is None:
@@ -305,7 +301,7 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
                 or a sequence of button names to hide.
             show_settings_action(bool | None): Control whether a dock settings/property action should
                 be installed. Defaults to ``False`` for the basic dock area; subclasses
-                such as `AdvancedDockArea` override the default to ``True``.
+                such as `BECDockArea` override the default to ``True``.
             promote_central(bool): When True, promote the created dock to be the dock manager's
                 central widget (useful for editor stacks or other root content).
             object_name(str | None): Optional object name to assign to the created widget.
@@ -602,13 +598,6 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         """Namespace used to scope user/default profile files for this dock area."""
         return self._resolve_profile_namespace()
 
-    def _active_profile_name_or_default(self) -> str:
-        name = getattr(self, "_current_profile_name", None)
-        if not name:
-            name = "general"
-            self._current_profile_name = name
-        return name
-
     def _profile_exists(self, name: str, namespace: str | None) -> bool:
         return any(
             os.path.exists(path) for path in user_profile_candidates(name, namespace)
@@ -676,12 +665,26 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
             name: The profile name.
             namespace: The profile namespace.
         """
+        self._empty_profile_active = False
+        self._empty_profile_consumed = True
         self._current_profile_name = name
         self.profile_changed.emit(name)
         set_last_profile(name, namespace=namespace, instance=self._last_profile_instance_id())
         combo = self.toolbar.components.get_action("workspace_combo").widget
         combo.refresh_profiles(active_profile=name)
 
+    def _enter_empty_profile_state(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Switch to the transient empty workspace state.
+
+        In this mode there is no active profile name, the toolbar shows an
+        explicit blank profile entry, and no autosave on shutdown is performed.
+        """
+        self._empty_profile_active = True
+        self._current_profile_name = None
+        self._pending_autosave_skip = None
+        self._refresh_workspace_list()
+
     @SafeSlot()
     def list_profiles(self) -> list[str]:
         """
@@ -815,10 +818,10 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         """
         self.save_profile(name, show_dialog=True)
 
+    @SafeSlot()
     @SafeSlot(str)
-    @SafeSlot(str, bool)
     @rpc_timeout(None)
-    def load_profile(self, name: str | None = None, start_empty: bool = False):
+    def load_profile(self, name: str | None = None):
         """
         Load a workspace profile.
 
@@ -827,8 +830,10 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
 
         Args:
             name (str | None): The name of the profile to load. If None, prompts the user.
-            start_empty (bool): If True, load a profile without any widgets. Danger of overwriting the dynamic state of that profile.
         """
+        if name == "":
+            return
+
         if not name:  # Gui fallback if the name is not provided
             name, ok = QInputDialog.getText(
                 self, "Load Workspace", "Enter the name of the workspace profile to load:"
@@ -860,10 +865,6 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         # Clear existing docks and remove all widgets
         self.delete_all()
 
-        if start_empty:
-            self._finalize_profile_change(name, namespace)
-            return
-
         # Rebuild widgets and restore states
         for item in read_manifest(settings):
             obj_name = item["object_name"]
@@ -1009,25 +1010,36 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         """
         combo = self.toolbar.components.get_action("workspace_combo").widget
         active_profile = getattr(self, "_current_profile_name", None)
+        empty_profile_active = bool(getattr(self, "_empty_profile_active", False))
         namespace = self.profile_namespace
         if hasattr(combo, "set_quick_profile_provider"):
             combo.set_quick_profile_provider(lambda ns=namespace: list_quick_profiles(namespace=ns))
         if hasattr(combo, "refresh_profiles"):
-            combo.refresh_profiles(active_profile)
+            if empty_profile_active:
+                combo.refresh_profiles(active_profile, show_empty_profile=True)
+            else:
+                combo.refresh_profiles(active_profile)
         else:
             # Fallback for regular QComboBox
             combo.blockSignals(True)
             combo.clear()
             quick_profiles = list_quick_profiles(namespace=namespace)
-            items = list(quick_profiles)
+            items = [""] if empty_profile_active else []
+            items.extend(quick_profiles)
             if active_profile and active_profile not in items:
                 items.insert(0, active_profile)
             combo.addItems(items)
-            if active_profile:
+            if empty_profile_active:
+                idx = combo.findText("")
+                if idx >= 0:
+                    combo.setCurrentIndex(idx)
+            elif active_profile:
                 idx = combo.findText(active_profile)
                 if idx >= 0:
                     combo.setCurrentIndex(idx)
-            if active_profile and active_profile not in quick_profiles:
+            if empty_profile_active:
+                combo.setToolTip("Unsaved empty workspace")
+            elif active_profile and active_profile not in quick_profiles:
                 combo.setToolTip("Active profile is not in quick select")
             else:
                 combo.setToolTip("")
@@ -1132,7 +1144,16 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
             logger.info("ADS prepare_for_shutdown: skipping (already handled or destroyed)")
             return
 
-        name = self._active_profile_name_or_default()
+        if getattr(self, "_empty_profile_active", False):
+            logger.info("ADS prepare_for_shutdown: skipping autosave for unsaved empty workspace")
+            self._exit_snapshot_written = True
+            return
+
+        name = getattr(self, "_current_profile_name", None)
+        if not name:
+            logger.info("ADS prepare_for_shutdown: skipping autosave (no active profile)")
+            self._exit_snapshot_written = True
+            return
 
         namespace = self.profile_namespace
         settings = open_user_settings(name, namespace=namespace)
@@ -1140,6 +1161,33 @@ class AdvancedDockArea(DockAreaWidget):
         set_last_profile(name, namespace=namespace, instance=self._last_profile_instance_id())
         self._exit_snapshot_written = True
 
+    def register_tour_steps(self, guided_tour, main_app):
+        """Register Dock Area components with the guided tour.
+
+        Args:
+            guided_tour: The GuidedTour instance to register with.
+            main_app: The main application instance (for accessing set_current).
+
+        Returns:
+            ViewTourSteps | None: Model containing view title and step IDs.
+        """
+
+        step_ids = []
+
+        # Register Dock Area toolbar
+        def get_dock_toolbar():
+            main_app.set_current("dock_area")
+            return (self.toolbar, None)
+
+        step_id = guided_tour.register_widget(
+            widget=get_dock_toolbar,
+            title="Dock Area Toolbar",
+            text="Use this toolbar to add widgets, manage workspaces, save and load profiles, and control the layout of your workspace.",
+        )
+        step_ids.append(step_id)
+
+        return ViewTourSteps(view_title="Dock Area Workspace", step_ids=step_ids)
+
     def cleanup(self):
         """
         Cleanup the dock area.
@@ -1163,7 +1211,7 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     dispatcher = BECDispatcher(gui_id="ads")
     window = BECMainWindowNoRPC()
 
-    ads = AdvancedDockArea(mode="creator", enable_profile_management=True, root_widget=True)
+    ads = BECDockArea(mode="creator", enable_profile_management=True, root_widget=True)
 
     window.setCentralWidget(ads)
     window.show()

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/dock_area/profile_utils.py

@@ -1,5 +1,5 @@
 """
-Utilities for managing AdvancedDockArea profiles stored in INI files.
+Utilities for managing BECDockArea profiles stored in INI files.
 
 Policy:
 - All created/modified profiles are stored under the BEC settings root: <base_path>/profiles/{default,user}
@@ -36,12 +36,12 @@ ProfileOrigin = Literal["module", "plugin", "settings", "unknown"]
 
 def module_profiles_dir() -> str:
     """
-    Return the built-in AdvancedDockArea profiles directory bundled with the module.
+    Return the built-in BECDockArea profiles directory bundled with the module.
 
     Returns:
         str: Absolute path of the read-only module profiles directory.
     """
-    return os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "containers", "advanced_dock_area", "profiles")
+    return os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "containers", "dock_area", "profiles")
 
 
 @lru_cache(maxsize=1)
@@ -115,12 +115,12 @@ def _settings_profiles_root() -> str:
         str: Absolute path to the profiles root. The directory is created if missing.
     """
     client = BECClient()
-    bec_widgets_settings = client._service_config.config.get("bec_widgets_settings")
+    bec_widgets_settings = client._service_config.config.get("widgets_settings")
     bec_widgets_setting_path = (
         bec_widgets_settings.get("base_path") if bec_widgets_settings else None
     )
     default_path = os.path.join(bec_widgets_setting_path, "profiles")
-    root = os.environ.get("BECWIDGETS_PROFILE_DIR", default_path)
+    root = os.path.expanduser(os.environ.get("BECWIDGETS_PROFILE_DIR", default_path))
     os.makedirs(root, exist_ok=True)
     return root
 
@@ -138,7 +138,7 @@ def _profiles_dir(segment: str, namespace: str | None) -> str:
     """
     base = os.path.join(_settings_profiles_root(), segment)
     ns = slugify.slugify(namespace, separator="_") if namespace else None
-    path = os.path.join(base, ns) if ns else base
+    path = os.path.expanduser(os.path.join(base, ns) if ns else base)
     os.makedirs(path, exist_ok=True)
     return path
 

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/dock_area/settings/workspace_manager.py

@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
 
 from bec_widgets import BECWidget, SafeSlot
 from bec_widgets.utils.colors import get_accent_colors
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.profile_utils import (
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.profile_utils import (
     get_profile_info,
     is_quick_select,
     list_profiles,
@@ -330,7 +330,7 @@ class WorkSpaceManager(BECWidget, QWidget):
             return
 
         self.target_widget.save_profile_dialog()
-        # AdvancedDockArea will emit profile_changed which will trigger table refresh,
+        # BECDockArea will emit profile_changed which will trigger table refresh,
         # but ensure the UI stays in sync even if the signal is delayed.
         self.render_table()
         current = getattr(self.target_widget, "_current_profile_name", None)

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/dock_area/toolbar_components/workspace_actions.py

@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ from bec_widgets import SafeSlot
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.actions import MaterialIconAction, WidgetAction
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.bundles import ToolbarBundle, ToolbarComponents
 from bec_widgets.utils.toolbars.connections import BundleConnection
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.profile_utils import list_quick_profiles
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.profile_utils import list_quick_profiles
 
 
 class ProfileComboBox(QComboBox):
@@ -24,12 +24,15 @@ class ProfileComboBox(QComboBox):
     def set_quick_profile_provider(self, provider: Callable[[], list[str]]) -> None:
         self._quick_provider = provider
 
-    def refresh_profiles(self, active_profile: str | None = None):
+    def refresh_profiles(
+        self, active_profile: str | None = None, show_empty_profile: bool = False
+    ) -> None:
         """
         Refresh the profile list and ensure the active profile is visible.
 
         Args:
             active_profile(str | None): The currently active profile name.
+            show_empty_profile(bool): If True, show an explicit empty unsaved workspace entry.
         """
 
         current_text = active_profile or self.currentText()
@@ -39,9 +42,22 @@ class ProfileComboBox(QComboBox):
         quick_profiles = self._quick_provider()
         quick_set = set(quick_profiles)
 
-        items = list(quick_profiles)
+        items: list[str] = []
+        if show_empty_profile:
+            items.append("")
+
         if active_profile and active_profile not in quick_set:
-            items.insert(0, active_profile)
+            items.append(active_profile)
+
+        for profile in quick_profiles:
+            if profile not in items:
+                items.append(profile)
+
+        if active_profile and active_profile not in quick_set:
+            # keep active profile at the top when not in quick list
+            items.remove(active_profile)
+            insert_pos = 1 if show_empty_profile else 0
+            items.insert(insert_pos, active_profile)
 
         for profile in items:
             self.addItem(profile)
@@ -52,6 +68,15 @@ class ProfileComboBox(QComboBox):
             self.setItemData(idx, None, Qt.ItemDataRole.ToolTipRole)
             self.setItemData(idx, None, Qt.ItemDataRole.ForegroundRole)
 
+            if profile == "":
+                self.setItemData(idx, "Unsaved empty workspace", Qt.ItemDataRole.ToolTipRole)
+                if active_profile is None:
+                    font = QFont(self.font())
+                    font.setItalic(True)
+                    self.setItemData(idx, font, Qt.ItemDataRole.FontRole)
+                    self.setCurrentIndex(idx)
+                continue
+
             if active_profile and profile == active_profile:
                 tooltip = "Active workspace profile"
                 if profile not in quick_set:
@@ -69,16 +94,23 @@ class ProfileComboBox(QComboBox):
                 self.setItemData(idx, "Not in quick select", Qt.ItemDataRole.ToolTipRole)
 
         # Restore selection if possible
-        index = self.findText(current_text)
-        if index >= 0:
-            self.setCurrentIndex(index)
+        if show_empty_profile and active_profile is None:
+            empty_idx = self.findText("")
+            if empty_idx >= 0:
+                self.setCurrentIndex(empty_idx)
+        else:
+            index = self.findText(current_text)
+            if index >= 0:
+                self.setCurrentIndex(index)
 
         self.blockSignals(False)
         if active_profile and self.currentText() != active_profile:
             idx = self.findText(active_profile)
             if idx >= 0:
                 self.setCurrentIndex(idx)
-        if active_profile and active_profile not in quick_set:
+        if show_empty_profile and self.currentText() == "":
+            self.setToolTip("Unsaved empty workspace")
+        elif active_profile and active_profile not in quick_set:
             self.setToolTip("Active profile is not in quick select")
         else:
             self.setToolTip("")
@@ -86,7 +118,7 @@ class ProfileComboBox(QComboBox):
 
 def workspace_bundle(components: ToolbarComponents, enable_tools: bool = True) -> ToolbarBundle:
     """
-    Creates a workspace toolbar bundle for AdvancedDockArea.
+    Creates a workspace toolbar bundle for BECDockArea.
 
     Args:
         components (ToolbarComponents): The components to be added to the bundle.
@@ -139,7 +171,7 @@ def workspace_bundle(components: ToolbarComponents, enable_tools: bool = True) -
 
 class WorkspaceConnection(BundleConnection):
     """
-    Connection class for workspace actions in AdvancedDockArea.
+    Connection class for workspace actions in BECDockArea.
     """
 
     def __init__(self, components: ToolbarComponents, target_widget=None):

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/explorer/explorer.py

@@ -101,14 +101,12 @@ class Explorer(BECWidget, QWidget):
         palette = get_theme_palette()
         separator_color = palette.mid().color()
 
-        self.splitter.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self.splitter.setStyleSheet(f"""
             QSplitter::handle {{
                 height: 0.1px;
                 background-color: rgba({separator_color.red()}, {separator_color.green()}, {separator_color.blue()}, 60);
             }}
-        """
-        )
+        """)
 
     def _update_spacer(self) -> None:
         """Update the spacer size based on section states"""

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/main_window/addons/notification_center/notification_banner.py

@@ -134,15 +134,13 @@ class NotificationToast(QFrame):
         bg.setAlphaF(0.30)
         icon_bg = bg.name(QtGui.QColor.HexArgb)
         icon_btn.setFixedSize(40, 40)
-        icon_btn.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        icon_btn.setStyleSheet(f"""
             QToolButton {{
                 background: {icon_bg};
                 border: none;
                 border-radius: 20px;   /* perfect circle */
             }}
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         title_lbl = QtWidgets.QLabel(self._title)
 
@@ -327,15 +325,13 @@ class NotificationToast(QFrame):
         bg = QtGui.QColor(SEVERITY[value.value]["color"])
         bg.setAlphaF(0.30)
         icon_bg = bg.name(QtGui.QColor.HexArgb)
-        self._icon_btn.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self._icon_btn.setStyleSheet(f"""
             QToolButton {{
                 background: {icon_bg};
                 border: none;
                 border-radius: 20px;
             }}
-            """
-        )
+            """)
         self.apply_theme(self._theme)
         # keep injected gradient in sync
         if getattr(self, "_hg_enabled", False):
@@ -391,8 +387,7 @@ class NotificationToast(QFrame):
             card_bg.setAlphaF(0.88)
             btn_hover = self._accent_color.name()
 
-        self.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self.setStyleSheet(f"""
             #NotificationToast {{
                 background: {card_bg.name(QtGui.QColor.HexArgb)};
                 border-radius: 12px;
@@ -406,18 +401,15 @@ class NotificationToast(QFrame):
                 font-size: 14px;
             }}
             #NotificationToast QPushButton:hover {{ color: {btn_hover}; }}
-            """
-        )
+            """)
         # traceback panel colours
         trace_bg = "#1e1e1e" if theme == "dark" else "#f0f0f0"
-        self.trace_view.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self.trace_view.setStyleSheet(f"""
             background:{trace_bg};
             color:{palette['body']};
             border:none;
             border-radius:8px;
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         # icon glyph vs badge background: darker badge, lighter icon in light mode
         icon_fg = "#ffffff" if theme == "light" else self._accent_color.name()
@@ -438,15 +430,13 @@ class NotificationToast(QFrame):
         else:
             badge_bg.setAlphaF(0.30)
         icon_bg = badge_bg.name(QtGui.QColor.HexArgb)
-        self._icon_btn.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self._icon_btn.setStyleSheet(f"""
             QToolButton {{
                 background: {icon_bg};
                 border: none;
                 border-radius: 20px;
             }}
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         # stronger accent wash in light mode, slightly stronger in dark too
         self._accent_alpha = 110 if theme == "light" else 60
@@ -593,8 +583,7 @@ class NotificationCentre(QScrollArea):
         self.setWidgetResizable(True)
         # transparent background so only the toast cards are visible
         self.setAttribute(QtCore.Qt.WA_TranslucentBackground, True)
-        self.setStyleSheet(
-            """
+        self.setStyleSheet("""
             #NotificationCentre { background: transparent; }
             #NotificationCentre QScrollBar:vertical {
                 background: transparent;
@@ -610,8 +599,7 @@ class NotificationCentre(QScrollArea):
             #NotificationCentre QScrollBar::sub-line:vertical { height: 0; }
             #NotificationCentre QScrollBar::add-page:vertical,
             #NotificationCentre QScrollBar::sub-page:vertical { background: transparent; }
-            """
-        )
+            """)
         self.setHorizontalScrollBarPolicy(QtCore.Qt.ScrollBarAlwaysOff)
         self.setFrameShape(QtWidgets.QFrame.NoFrame)
         self.setFixedWidth(fixed_width)
@@ -958,8 +946,7 @@ class NotificationIndicator(QWidget):
         self._group.buttonToggled.connect(self._button_toggled)
 
         # minimalistic look: no frames or backgrounds on the buttons
-        self.setStyleSheet(
-            """
+        self.setStyleSheet("""
             QToolButton {
                 border: none;
                 background: transparent;
@@ -970,8 +957,7 @@ class NotificationIndicator(QWidget):
                 background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 40);
                 font-weight: 600;
             }
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         # initial state: none checked (auto‑dismiss behaviour)
         for k in kinds:

bec_widgets/widgets/containers/main_window/main_window.py

@@ -1,8 +1,8 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
 import os
-from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
 
+from bec_lib import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.endpoints import MessageEndpoints
 from qtpy.QtCore import QEvent, QSize, Qt, QTimer
 from qtpy.QtGui import QAction, QActionGroup, QIcon
@@ -31,12 +31,17 @@ from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.addons.notification_center.notif
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.addons.scroll_label import ScrollLabel
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.addons.web_links import BECWebLinksMixin
 from bec_widgets.widgets.progress.scan_progressbar.scan_progressbar import ScanProgressBar
+from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.widget_hierarchy_tree.widget_hierarchy_tree import (
+    WidgetHierarchyDialog,
+)
 
 MODULE_PATH = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
 
 # Ensure the application does not use the native menu bar on macOS to be consistent with linux development.
 QApplication.setAttribute(Qt.ApplicationAttribute.AA_DontUseNativeMenuBar, True)
 
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
 
 class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
     RPC = True
@@ -49,6 +54,7 @@ class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
 
         self.app = QApplication.instance()
         self.status_bar = self.statusBar()
+        self._launcher_window = None
         self.setWindowTitle(window_title)
         self.setAttribute(Qt.WidgetAttribute.WA_DeleteOnClose, True)
 
@@ -57,6 +63,7 @@ class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
         self.notification_broker = BECNotificationBroker(parent=self)
         self._nc_margin = 16
         self._position_notification_centre()
+        self._widget_hierarchy_dialog: WidgetHierarchyDialog | None = None
 
         # Init ui
         self._init_ui()
@@ -189,14 +196,18 @@ class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
     def _add_scan_progress_bar(self):
 
         # Setting HoverWidget for the scan progress bar - minimal and full version
-        self._scan_progress_bar_simple = ScanProgressBar(self, one_line_design=True)
+        self._scan_progress_bar_simple = ScanProgressBar(
+            self, one_line_design=True, rpc_exposed=False, rpc_passthrough_children=False
+        )
         self._scan_progress_bar_simple.show_elapsed_time = False
         self._scan_progress_bar_simple.show_remaining_time = False
         self._scan_progress_bar_simple.show_source_label = False
         self._scan_progress_bar_simple.progressbar.label_template = ""
         self._scan_progress_bar_simple.progressbar.setFixedHeight(self.SCAN_PROGRESS_HEIGHT)
         self._scan_progress_bar_simple.progressbar.setFixedWidth(self.SCAN_PROGRESS_WIDTH)
-        self._scan_progress_bar_full = ScanProgressBar(self)
+        self._scan_progress_bar_full = ScanProgressBar(
+            self, rpc_exposed=False, rpc_passthrough_children=False
+        )
         self._scan_progress_hover = HoverWidget(
             self, simple=self._scan_progress_bar_simple, full=self._scan_progress_bar_full
         )
@@ -254,7 +265,7 @@ class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
         self.ui = loader.loader(ui_file)
         self.setCentralWidget(self.ui)
 
-    def _fetch_theme(self) -> str:
+    def fetch_theme(self) -> str:
         return self.app.theme.theme
 
     def _get_launcher_from_qapp(self):
@@ -275,6 +286,16 @@ class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
         Show the launcher if it exists.
         """
         launcher = self._get_launcher_from_qapp()
+        if launcher is None:
+            from bec_widgets.applications.launch_window import LaunchWindow
+
+            cli_server = getattr(self.bec_dispatcher, "cli_server", None)
+            if cli_server is None:
+                logger.warning("Cannot open launcher: CLI server is not available.")
+                return
+            launcher = LaunchWindow(gui_id=f"{cli_server.gui_id}:launcher")
+            launcher.setAttribute(Qt.WA_ShowWithoutActivating)  # type: ignore[arg-type]
+            self._launcher_window = launcher
         if launcher:
             launcher.show()
             launcher.activateWindow()
@@ -312,6 +333,11 @@ class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
         light_theme_action.triggered.connect(lambda: self.change_theme("light"))
         dark_theme_action.triggered.connect(lambda: self.change_theme("dark"))
 
+        theme_menu.addSeparator()
+        widget_tree_action = QAction("Show Widget Hierarchy", self)
+        widget_tree_action.triggered.connect(self._show_widget_hierarchy_dialog)
+        theme_menu.addAction(widget_tree_action)
+
         # Set the default theme
         if hasattr(self.app, "theme") and self.app.theme:
             theme_name = self.app.theme.theme.lower()
@@ -395,7 +421,23 @@ class BECMainWindow(BECWidget, QMainWindow):
             return True
         return super().event(event)
 
+    def _show_widget_hierarchy_dialog(self):
+        if self._widget_hierarchy_dialog is None:
+            dialog = WidgetHierarchyDialog(root_widget=None, parent=self)
+            dialog.setAttribute(Qt.WidgetAttribute.WA_DeleteOnClose, True)
+            dialog.destroyed.connect(lambda: setattr(self, "_widget_hierarchy_dialog", None))
+            self._widget_hierarchy_dialog = dialog
+        self._widget_hierarchy_dialog.refresh()
+        self._widget_hierarchy_dialog.show()
+        self._widget_hierarchy_dialog.raise_()
+        self._widget_hierarchy_dialog.activateWindow()
+
     def cleanup(self):
+        # Widget hierarchy dialog cleanup
+        if self._widget_hierarchy_dialog is not None:
+            self._widget_hierarchy_dialog.close()
+            self._widget_hierarchy_dialog = None
+
         # Timer cleanup
         if hasattr(self, "_client_info_expire_timer") and self._client_info_expire_timer.isActive():
             self._client_info_expire_timer.stop()

bec_widgets/widgets/control/device_control/positioner_box/_base/positioner_box_base.py

@@ -123,7 +123,7 @@ class PositionerBoxBase(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
             queue="emergency",
             metadata={"RID": request_id, "response": False},
         )
-        self.client.connector.send(MessageEndpoints.scan_queue_request(), msg)
+        self.client.connector.send(MessageEndpoints.scan_queue_request(self.client.username), msg)
 
     # pylint: disable=unused-argument
     def _on_device_readback(

bec_widgets/widgets/control/device_input/base_classes/device_signal_input_base.py

@@ -266,6 +266,7 @@ class DeviceSignalInputBase(BECWidget):
 
         Args:
             device(str): Device to validate.
+            raise_on_false(bool): Raise ValueError if device is not found.
         """
         if device in self.dev:
             return True

bec_widgets/widgets/control/device_manager/components/_util.py

@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 import json
 from typing import Any, Callable, Generator, Iterable, TypeVar
 
-from bec_lib.utils.json import ExtendedEncoder
+from bec_lib.utils.json_extended import ExtendedEncoder
 from qtpy.QtCore import QByteArray, QMimeData, QObject, Signal  # type: ignore
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QListWidgetItem
 

bec_widgets/widgets/control/device_manager/components/available_device_resources/available_device_group.py

@@ -51,8 +51,7 @@ class _DeviceEntryWidget(QFrame):
         self.setToolTip(self._rich_text())
 
     def _rich_text(self):
-        return dedent(
-            f"""
+        return dedent(f"""
         <b><u><h2> {self._device_spec.name}: </h2></u></b>
         <table>
         <tr><td> description: </td><td><i> {self._device_spec.description}  </i></td></tr>
@@ -60,8 +59,7 @@ class _DeviceEntryWidget(QFrame):
         <tr><td> enabled:     </td><td><i> {self._device_spec.enabled}      </i></td></tr>
         <tr><td> read only:   </td><td><i> {self._device_spec.readOnly}     </i></td></tr>
         </table>
-        """
-        )
+        """)
 
     def setup_title_layout(self, device_spec: HashableDevice):
         self._title_layout = QHBoxLayout()

bec_widgets/widgets/control/device_manager/components/ophyd_validation/ophyd_validation.py

@@ -69,11 +69,12 @@ class DeviceTest(QtCore.QRunnable):
         enable_connect: bool,
         force_connect: bool,
         timeout: float,
+        device_manager_ds: object | None = None,
     ):
         super().__init__()
         self.uuid = device_model.uuid
         test_config = {device_model.device_name: device_model.device_config}
-        self.tester = StaticDeviceTest(config_dict=test_config)
+        self.tester = StaticDeviceTest(config_dict=test_config, device_manager_ds=device_manager_ds)
         self.signals = DeviceTestResult()
         self.device_config = device_model.device_config
         self.enable_connect = enable_connect
@@ -752,11 +753,15 @@ class OphydValidation(BECWidget, QtWidgets.QWidget):
             # Remove widget from list as it's safe to assume it can be loaded.
             self._remove_device_config(widget.device_model.device_config)
             return
+        dm_ds = None
+        if self.client:
+            dm_ds = getattr(self.client, "device_manager", None)
         runnable = DeviceTest(
             device_model=widget.device_model,
             enable_connect=connect,
             force_connect=force_connect,
             timeout=timeout,
+            device_manager_ds=dm_ds,
         )
         widget.validation_scheduled()
         if self.thread_pool_manager:

bec_widgets/widgets/control/scan_control/scan_control.py

@@ -9,6 +9,7 @@ from qtpy.QtGui import QColor
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QApplication,
     QComboBox,
+    QGroupBox,
     QHBoxLayout,
     QLabel,
     QPushButton,
@@ -171,7 +172,13 @@ class ScanControl(BECWidget, QWidget):
         self.layout.addStretch()
 
     def _add_metadata_form(self):
-        self.layout.addWidget(self._metadata_form)
+        # Wrap metadata form in a group box
+        self._metadata_group = QGroupBox("Scan Metadata", self)
+        self._metadata_group.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Policy.Preferred, QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed)
+        metadata_layout = QVBoxLayout(self._metadata_group)
+        metadata_layout.addWidget(self._metadata_form)
+
+        self.layout.addWidget(self._metadata_group)
         self._metadata_form.update_with_new_scan(self.comboBox_scan_selection.currentText())
         self.scan_selected.connect(self._metadata_form.update_with_new_scan)
         self._metadata_form.form_data_updated.connect(self.update_scan_metadata)

bec_widgets/widgets/dap/lmfit_dialog/lmfit_dialog.py

@@ -275,12 +275,10 @@ class LMFitDialog(BECWidget, QWidget):
                     button.setEnabled(True)
                 else:
                     button.setEnabled(False)
-                button.setStyleSheet(
-                    f"""
+                button.setStyleSheet(f"""
                     QPushButton:enabled {{ background-color: {self._accent_colors.success.name()};color: white; }} 
                     QPushButton:disabled {{ background-color: grey;color: white; }}
-                    """
-                )
+                    """)
                 self.action_buttons[param_name] = button
                 layout = QVBoxLayout()
                 layout.addWidget(self.action_buttons[param_name])

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/jupyter_console/jupyter_console.py

@@ -47,15 +47,13 @@ class BECJupyterConsole(RichJupyterWidget):  # pragma: no cover:
         )
 
     def _init_bec_kernel(self):
-        self.execute(
-            """
+        self.execute("""
             from bec_ipython_client.main import BECIPythonClient
             bec = BECIPythonClient()
             bec.start()
             dev = bec.device_manager.devices if bec else None
             scans = bec.scans if bec else None
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
     def _cleanup_bec(self):
         if getattr(self, "ipyclient", None) is not None and self.inprocess is True:

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/monaco/monaco_dock.py

@@ -6,10 +6,10 @@ from typing import Any, cast
 
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.macro_update_handler import has_executable_code
-from qtpy.QtCore import QEvent, QTimer, Signal
+from qtpy.QtCore import Signal
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QFileDialog, QMessageBox, QToolButton, QWidget
 
-from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.advanced_dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock_area.basic_dock_area import DockAreaWidget
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.qt_ads import CDockAreaWidget, CDockWidget
 from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.monaco.monaco_widget import MonacoWidget
 
@@ -36,12 +36,12 @@ class MonacoDock(DockAreaWidget):
             **kwargs,
         )
         self.dock_manager.focusedDockWidgetChanged.connect(self._on_focus_event)
-        self.dock_manager.installEventFilter(self)
         self._last_focused_editor: CDockWidget | None = None
         self.focused_editor.connect(self._on_last_focused_editor_changed)
         initial_editor = self.add_editor()
         if isinstance(initial_editor, CDockWidget):
             self.last_focused_editor = initial_editor
+        self._install_manager_scan_and_fix_guards()
 
     def _create_editor_widget(self) -> MonacoWidget:
         """Create a configured Monaco editor widget."""
@@ -73,7 +73,8 @@ class MonacoDock(DockAreaWidget):
             logger.info(f"Editor '{widget.current_file}' has unsaved changes: {widget.get_text()}")
         self.save_enabled.emit(widget.modified)
 
-    def _update_tab_title_for_modification(self, dock: CDockWidget, modified: bool):
+    @staticmethod
+    def _update_tab_title_for_modification(dock: CDockWidget, modified: bool):
         """Update the tab title to show modification status with a dot indicator."""
         current_title = dock.windowTitle()
 
@@ -98,14 +99,12 @@ class MonacoDock(DockAreaWidget):
             return
 
         active_sig = signatures[signature.get("activeSignature", 0)]
-        active_param = signature.get("activeParameter", 0)  # TODO: Add highlight for active_param
-
         # Get signature label and documentation
         label = active_sig.get("label", "")
         doc_obj = active_sig.get("documentation", {})
         documentation = doc_obj.get("value", "") if isinstance(doc_obj, dict) else str(doc_obj)
 
-        # Format the markdown output
+        # Format the Markdown output
         markdown = f"```python\n{label}\n```\n\n{documentation}"
         self.signature_help.emit(markdown)
 
@@ -156,9 +155,10 @@ class MonacoDock(DockAreaWidget):
         if self.last_focused_editor is dock:
             self.last_focused_editor = None
         # After topology changes, make sure single-tab areas get a plus button
-        QTimer.singleShot(0, self._scan_and_fix_areas)
+        self._scan_and_fix_areas()
 
-    def reset_widget(self, widget: MonacoWidget):
+    @staticmethod
+    def reset_widget(widget: MonacoWidget):
         """
         Reset the given Monaco editor widget to its initial state.
 
@@ -193,23 +193,23 @@ class MonacoDock(DockAreaWidget):
             # pylint: disable=protected-access
             area._monaco_plus_btn = plus_btn
 
-    def _scan_and_fix_areas(self):
+    def _install_manager_scan_and_fix_guards(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Track ADS structural changes to trigger scan and fix of dock areas for plus button injection.
+        """
+        self.dock_manager.dockAreaCreated.connect(self._scan_and_fix_areas)
+        self.dock_manager.dockWidgetAdded.connect(self._scan_and_fix_areas)
+        self.dock_manager.stateRestored.connect(self._scan_and_fix_areas)
+        self.dock_manager.restoringState.connect(self._scan_and_fix_areas)
+        self.dock_manager.focusedDockWidgetChanged.connect(self._scan_and_fix_areas)
+        self._scan_and_fix_areas()
+
+    def _scan_and_fix_areas(self, *_arg):
         # Find all dock areas under this manager and ensure each single-tab area has a plus button
         areas = self.dock_manager.findChildren(CDockAreaWidget)
         for a in areas:
             self._ensure_area_plus(a)
 
-    def eventFilter(self, obj, event):
-        # Track dock manager events
-        if obj is self.dock_manager and event.type() in (
-            QEvent.Type.ChildAdded,
-            QEvent.Type.ChildRemoved,
-            QEvent.Type.LayoutRequest,
-        ):
-            QTimer.singleShot(0, self._scan_and_fix_areas)
-
-        return super().eventFilter(obj, event)
-
     def add_editor(
         self, area: Any | None = None, title: str | None = None, tooltip: str | None = None
     ) -> CDockWidget:
@@ -258,7 +258,7 @@ class MonacoDock(DockAreaWidget):
         if area_widget is not None:
             self._ensure_area_plus(area_widget)
 
-        QTimer.singleShot(0, self._scan_and_fix_areas)
+        self._scan_and_fix_areas()
         self.last_focused_editor = dock
         return dock
 

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/monaco/monaco_widget.py

@@ -362,8 +362,7 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     widget.set_language("python")
     widget.set_theme("vs-dark")
     widget.editor.set_minimap_enabled(False)
-    widget.set_text(
-        """
+    widget.set_text("""
 import numpy as np
 from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
 
@@ -380,8 +379,7 @@ if TYPE_CHECKING:
 # This is a comment
 def hello_world():
     print("Hello, world!")
-            """
-    )
+            """)
     widget.set_highlighted_lines(1, 3)
     widget.show()
     qapp.exec_()

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/scan_metadata/scan_metadata.py

@@ -53,6 +53,8 @@ class ScanMetadata(PydanticModelForm):
 
         super().__init__(parent=parent, data_model=self._md_schema, client=client, **kwargs)
 
+        self._layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        self._form_grid_container.layout().setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
         self._layout.addWidget(self._additional_md_box)
         self._additional_md_box_layout.addWidget(self._additional_metadata)
 
@@ -78,12 +80,27 @@ class ScanMetadata(PydanticModelForm):
 
     def get_form_data(self):
         """Get the entered metadata as a dict"""
-        return self._additional_metadata.dump_dict() | self._dict_from_grid()
+        form_data = self._additional_metadata.dump_dict() | self._dict_from_grid()
+
+        # If scan_name is empty, set it to the current scan
+        if "scan_name" in form_data and not form_data["scan_name"]:
+            form_data["scan_name"] = self._scan_name
+
+        return form_data
 
     def populate(self):
         self._additional_metadata.update_disallowed_keys(list(self._md_schema.model_fields.keys()))
         super().populate()
 
+        # Set scan_name field to current scan if it exists and is empty
+        if "scan_name" not in self.widget_dict:
+            return
+        scan_name_widget = self.widget_dict["scan_name"]
+        if not hasattr(scan_name_widget, "getValue") or scan_name_widget.getValue():
+            return
+        if hasattr(scan_name_widget, "setValue"):
+            scan_name_widget.setValue(self._scan_name)
+
     def set_schema_from_scan(self, scan_name: str | None):
         self._scan_name = scan_name or ""
         self.set_schema(get_metadata_schema_for_scan(self._scan_name))

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/vscode/register_vs_code_editor.py

@@ -1,15 +0,0 @@
-def main():  # pragma: no cover
-    from qtpy import PYSIDE6
-
-    if not PYSIDE6:
-        print("PYSIDE6 is not available in the environment. Cannot patch designer.")
-        return
-    from PySide6.QtDesigner import QPyDesignerCustomWidgetCollection
-
-    from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.vscode.vs_code_editor_plugin import VSCodeEditorPlugin
-
-    QPyDesignerCustomWidgetCollection.addCustomWidget(VSCodeEditorPlugin())
-
-
-if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
-    main()

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/vscode/vs_code_editor.pyproject

@@ -1 +0,0 @@
-{'files': ['vscode.py']}

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/vscode/vs_code_editor_plugin.py

@@ -1,57 +0,0 @@
-# Copyright (C) 2022 The Qt Company Ltd.
-# SPDX-License-Identifier: LicenseRef-Qt-Commercial OR BSD-3-Clause
-
-from qtpy.QtDesigner import QDesignerCustomWidgetInterface
-from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
-
-from bec_widgets.utils.bec_designer import designer_material_icon
-from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.vscode.vscode import VSCodeEditor
-
-DOM_XML = """
-<ui language='c++'>
-    <widget class='VSCodeEditor' name='vs_code_editor'>
-    </widget>
-</ui>
-"""
-
-
-class VSCodeEditorPlugin(QDesignerCustomWidgetInterface):  # pragma: no cover
-    def __init__(self):
-        super().__init__()
-        self._form_editor = None
-
-    def createWidget(self, parent):
-        if parent is None:
-            return QWidget()
-        t = VSCodeEditor(parent)
-        return t
-
-    def domXml(self):
-        return DOM_XML
-
-    def group(self):
-        return "BEC Developer"
-
-    def icon(self):
-        return designer_material_icon(VSCodeEditor.ICON_NAME)
-
-    def includeFile(self):
-        return "vs_code_editor"
-
-    def initialize(self, form_editor):
-        self._form_editor = form_editor
-
-    def isContainer(self):
-        return False
-
-    def isInitialized(self):
-        return self._form_editor is not None
-
-    def name(self):
-        return "VSCodeEditor"
-
-    def toolTip(self):
-        return ""
-
-    def whatsThis(self):
-        return self.toolTip()

bec_widgets/widgets/editors/vscode/vscode.py

@@ -1,203 +0,0 @@
-import os
-import select
-import shlex
-import signal
-import socket
-import subprocess
-from typing import Literal
-
-from pydantic import BaseModel
-from qtpy.QtCore import Signal, Slot
-
-from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.website.website import WebsiteWidget
-
-
-class VSCodeInstructionMessage(BaseModel):
-    command: Literal["open", "write", "close", "zenMode", "save", "new", "setCursor"]
-    content: str = ""
-
-
-def get_free_port():
-    """
-    Get a free port on the local machine.
-
-    Returns:
-        int: The free port number
-    """
-    sock = socket.socket()
-    sock.bind(("", 0))
-    port = sock.getsockname()[1]
-    sock.close()
-    return port
-
-
-class VSCodeEditor(WebsiteWidget):
-    """
-    A widget to display the VSCode editor.
-    """
-
-    file_saved = Signal(str)
-
-    token = "bec"
-    host = "127.0.0.1"
-
-    PLUGIN = True
-    USER_ACCESS = []
-    ICON_NAME = "developer_mode_tv"
-
-    def __init__(self, parent=None, config=None, client=None, gui_id=None, **kwargs):
-
-        self.process = None
-        self.port = get_free_port()
-        self._url = f"http://{self.host}:{self.port}?tkn={self.token}"
-        super().__init__(parent=parent, config=config, client=client, gui_id=gui_id, **kwargs)
-        self.start_server()
-        self.bec_dispatcher.connect_slot(self.on_vscode_event, f"vscode-events/{self.gui_id}")
-
-    def start_server(self):
-        """
-        Start the server.
-
-        This method starts the server for the VSCode editor in a subprocess.
-        """
-
-        env = os.environ.copy()
-        env["BEC_Widgets_GUIID"] = self.gui_id
-        env["BEC_REDIS_HOST"] = self.client.connector.host
-        cmd = shlex.split(
-            f"code serve-web --port {self.port} --connection-token={self.token} --accept-server-license-terms"
-        )
-        self.process = subprocess.Popen(
-            cmd,
-            text=True,
-            stdout=subprocess.PIPE,
-            stderr=subprocess.DEVNULL,
-            preexec_fn=os.setsid,
-            env=env,
-        )
-
-        os.set_blocking(self.process.stdout.fileno(), False)
-        while self.process.poll() is None:
-            readylist, _, _ = select.select([self.process.stdout], [], [], 1)
-            if self.process.stdout in readylist:
-                output = self.process.stdout.read(1024)
-                if output and f"available at {self._url}" in output:
-                    break
-        self.set_url(self._url)
-        self.wait_until_loaded()
-
-    @Slot(str)
-    def open_file(self, file_path: str):
-        """
-        Open a file in the VSCode editor.
-
-        Args:
-            file_path: The file path to open
-        """
-        msg = VSCodeInstructionMessage(command="open", content=f"file://{file_path}")
-        self.client.connector.raw_send(f"vscode-instructions/{self.gui_id}", msg.model_dump_json())
-
-    @Slot(dict, dict)
-    def on_vscode_event(self, content, _metadata):
-        """
-        Handle the VSCode event. VSCode events are received as RawMessages.
-
-        Args:
-            content: The content of the event
-            metadata: The metadata of the event
-        """
-
-        # the message also contains the content but I think is fine for now to just emit the file path
-        if not isinstance(content["data"], dict):
-            return
-        if "uri" not in content["data"]:
-            return
-        if not content["data"]["uri"].startswith("file://"):
-            return
-        file_path = content["data"]["uri"].split("file://")[1]
-        self.file_saved.emit(file_path)
-
-    @Slot()
-    def save_file(self):
-        """
-        Save the file in the VSCode editor.
-        """
-        msg = VSCodeInstructionMessage(command="save")
-        self.client.connector.raw_send(f"vscode-instructions/{self.gui_id}", msg.model_dump_json())
-
-    @Slot()
-    def new_file(self):
-        """
-        Create a new file in the VSCode editor.
-        """
-        msg = VSCodeInstructionMessage(command="new")
-        self.client.connector.raw_send(f"vscode-instructions/{self.gui_id}", msg.model_dump_json())
-
-    @Slot()
-    def close_file(self):
-        """
-        Close the file in the VSCode editor.
-        """
-        msg = VSCodeInstructionMessage(command="close")
-        self.client.connector.raw_send(f"vscode-instructions/{self.gui_id}", msg.model_dump_json())
-
-    @Slot(str)
-    def write_file(self, content: str):
-        """
-        Write content to the file in the VSCode editor.
-
-        Args:
-            content: The content to write
-        """
-        msg = VSCodeInstructionMessage(command="write", content=content)
-        self.client.connector.raw_send(f"vscode-instructions/{self.gui_id}", msg.model_dump_json())
-
-    @Slot()
-    def zen_mode(self):
-        """
-        Toggle the Zen mode in the VSCode editor.
-        """
-        msg = VSCodeInstructionMessage(command="zenMode")
-        self.client.connector.raw_send(f"vscode-instructions/{self.gui_id}", msg.model_dump_json())
-
-    @Slot(int, int)
-    def set_cursor(self, line: int, column: int):
-        """
-        Set the cursor in the VSCode editor.
-
-        Args:
-            line: The line number
-            column: The column number
-        """
-        msg = VSCodeInstructionMessage(command="setCursor", content=f"{line},{column}")
-        self.client.connector.raw_send(f"vscode-instructions/{self.gui_id}", msg.model_dump_json())
-
-    def cleanup_vscode(self):
-        """
-        Cleanup the VSCode editor.
-        """
-        if not self.process or self.process.poll() is not None:
-            return
-        os.killpg(os.getpgid(self.process.pid), signal.SIGTERM)
-        self.process.wait()
-
-    def cleanup(self):
-        """
-        Cleanup the widget. This method is called from the dock area when the widget is removed.
-        """
-        self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(self.on_vscode_event, f"vscode-events/{self.gui_id}")
-        self.cleanup_vscode()
-        return super().cleanup()
-
-
-if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
-    import sys
-
-    from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
-
-    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
-    widget = VSCodeEditor(gui_id="unknown")
-    widget.show()
-    app.exec_()
-    widget.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_all()
-    widget.client.shutdown()

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/heatmap/heatmap.py

@@ -35,8 +35,8 @@ logger = bec_logger.logger
 class HeatmapDeviceSignal(BaseModel):
     """The configuration of a signal in the scatter waveform widget."""
 
-    name: str
-    entry: str
+    device: str
+    signal: str
 
     model_config: dict = {"validate_assignment": True}
 
@@ -65,13 +65,13 @@ class HeatmapConfig(ConnectionConfig):
     lock_aspect_ratio: bool = Field(
         False, description="Whether to lock the aspect ratio of the image."
     )
-    x_device: HeatmapDeviceSignal | None = Field(
+    device_x: HeatmapDeviceSignal | None = Field(
         None, description="The x device signal of the heatmap."
     )
-    y_device: HeatmapDeviceSignal | None = Field(
+    device_y: HeatmapDeviceSignal | None = Field(
         None, description="The y device signal of the heatmap."
     )
-    z_device: HeatmapDeviceSignal | None = Field(
+    device_z: HeatmapDeviceSignal | None = Field(
         None, description="The z device signal of the heatmap."
     )
 
@@ -204,18 +204,18 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         "rois",
         "plot",
         # Device properties
-        "x_device_name",
-        "x_device_name.setter",
-        "x_device_entry",
-        "x_device_entry.setter",
-        "y_device_name",
-        "y_device_name.setter",
-        "y_device_entry",
-        "y_device_entry.setter",
-        "z_device_name",
-        "z_device_name.setter",
-        "z_device_entry",
-        "z_device_entry.setter",
+        "device_x",
+        "device_x.setter",
+        "signal_x",
+        "signal_x.setter",
+        "device_y",
+        "device_y.setter",
+        "signal_y",
+        "signal_y.setter",
+        "device_z",
+        "device_z.setter",
+        "signal_z",
+        "signal_z.setter",
     ]
 
     PLUGIN = True
@@ -238,9 +238,9 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
                 interpolation="linear",
                 oversampling_factor=1.0,
                 lock_aspect_ratio=False,
-                x_device=None,
-                y_device=None,
-                z_device=None,
+                device_x=None,
+                device_y=None,
+                device_z=None,
             )
         super().__init__(parent=parent, config=config, theme_update=True, **kwargs)
         self._image_config = config
@@ -314,12 +314,12 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
     @SafeSlot(popup_error=True)
     def plot(
         self,
-        x_name: str,
-        y_name: str,
-        z_name: str,
-        x_entry: None | str = None,
-        y_entry: None | str = None,
-        z_entry: None | str = None,
+        device_x: str,
+        device_y: str,
+        device_z: str,
+        signal_x: None | str = None,
+        signal_y: None | str = None,
+        signal_z: None | str = None,
         color_map: str | None = "plasma",
         validate_bec: bool = True,
         interpolation: Literal["linear", "nearest"] | None = None,
@@ -333,12 +333,12 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         Plot the heatmap with the given x, y, and z data.
 
         Args:
-            x_name (str): The name of the x-axis signal.
-            y_name (str): The name of the y-axis signal.
-            z_name (str): The name of the z-axis signal.
-            x_entry (str | None): The entry for the x-axis signal.
-            y_entry (str | None): The entry for the y-axis signal.
-            z_entry (str | None): The entry for the z-axis signal.
+            device_x (str): The name of the x-axis device signal.
+            device_y (str): The name of the y-axis device signal.
+            device_z (str): The name of the z-axis device signal.
+            signal_x (str | None): The entry for the x-axis device signal.
+            signal_y (str | None): The entry for the y-axis device signal.
+            signal_z (str | None): The entry for the z-axis device signal.
             color_map (str | None): The color map to use for the heatmap.
             validate_bec (bool): Whether to validate the entries against BEC signals.
             interpolation (Literal["linear", "nearest"] | None): The interpolation method to use.
@@ -349,13 +349,13 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
             reload (bool): Whether to reload the heatmap with new data.
         """
         if validate_bec:
-            x_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(x_name, x_entry)
-            y_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(y_name, y_entry)
-            z_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(z_name, z_entry)
+            signal_x = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_x, signal_x)
+            signal_y = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_y, signal_y)
+            signal_z = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_z, signal_z)
 
-        if x_entry is None or y_entry is None or z_entry is None:
+        if signal_x is None or signal_y is None or signal_z is None:
             raise ValueError("x, y, and z entries must be provided.")
-        if x_name is None or y_name is None or z_name is None:
+        if device_x is None or device_y is None or device_z is None:
             raise ValueError("x, y, and z names must be provided.")
 
         if interpolation is None:
@@ -374,24 +374,24 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
             show_config_label = self._image_config.show_config_label
 
         def _device_key(device: HeatmapDeviceSignal | None) -> tuple[str | None, str | None]:
-            return (device.name if device else None, device.entry if device else None)
+            return (device.device if device else None, device.signal if device else None)
 
         prev_cfg = getattr(self, "_image_config", None)
         config_changed = False
-        if prev_cfg and prev_cfg.x_device and prev_cfg.y_device and prev_cfg.z_device:
+        if prev_cfg and prev_cfg.device_x and prev_cfg.device_y and prev_cfg.device_z:
             config_changed = any(
                 (
-                    _device_key(prev_cfg.x_device) != (x_name, x_entry),
-                    _device_key(prev_cfg.y_device) != (y_name, y_entry),
-                    _device_key(prev_cfg.z_device) != (z_name, z_entry),
+                    _device_key(prev_cfg.device_x) != (device_x, signal_x),
+                    _device_key(prev_cfg.device_y) != (device_y, signal_y),
+                    _device_key(prev_cfg.device_z) != (device_z, signal_z),
                 )
             )
 
         self._image_config = HeatmapConfig(
             parent_id=self.gui_id,
-            x_device=HeatmapDeviceSignal(name=x_name, entry=x_entry),
-            y_device=HeatmapDeviceSignal(name=y_name, entry=y_entry),
-            z_device=HeatmapDeviceSignal(name=z_name, entry=z_entry),
+            device_x=HeatmapDeviceSignal(device=device_x, signal=signal_x),
+            device_y=HeatmapDeviceSignal(device=device_y, signal=signal_y),
+            device_z=HeatmapDeviceSignal(device=device_z, signal=signal_z),
             color_map=color_map,
             color_bar=None,
             interpolation=interpolation,
@@ -428,26 +428,26 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
             return
 
         # Safely get device names (might be None if not yet configured)
-        x_device = self._image_config.x_device
-        y_device = self._image_config.y_device
-        z_device = self._image_config.z_device
+        device_x = self._image_config.device_x
+        device_y = self._image_config.device_y
+        device_z = self._image_config.device_z
 
-        x_name = x_device.name if x_device else None
-        y_name = y_device.name if y_device else None
-        z_name = z_device.name if z_device else None
+        device_x_name = device_x.device if device_x else None
+        device_y_name = device_y.device if device_y else None
+        device_z_name = device_z.device if device_z else None
 
-        if x_name is not None:
-            self.x_label = x_name  # type: ignore
-            x_dev = self.dev.get(x_name)
+        if device_x_name is not None:
+            self.x_label = device_x_name  # type: ignore
+            x_dev = self.dev.get(device_x_name)
             if x_dev and hasattr(x_dev, "egu"):
                 self.x_label_units = x_dev.egu()
-        if y_name is not None:
-            self.y_label = y_name  # type: ignore
-            y_dev = self.dev.get(y_name)
+        if device_y_name is not None:
+            self.y_label = device_y_name  # type: ignore
+            y_dev = self.dev.get(device_y_name)
             if y_dev and hasattr(y_dev, "egu"):
                 self.y_label_units = y_dev.egu()
-        if z_name is not None:
-            self.title = z_name
+        if device_z_name is not None:
+            self.title = device_z_name
 
     def _init_toolbar_heatmap(self):
         """
@@ -572,23 +572,23 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         if self._image_config is None:
             return
         try:
-            x_name = self._image_config.x_device.name
-            x_entry = self._image_config.x_device.entry
-            y_name = self._image_config.y_device.name
-            y_entry = self._image_config.y_device.entry
-            z_name = self._image_config.z_device.name
-            z_entry = self._image_config.z_device.entry
+            device_x = self._image_config.device_x.device
+            signal_x = self._image_config.device_x.signal
+            device_y = self._image_config.device_y.device
+            signal_y = self._image_config.device_y.signal
+            device_z = self._image_config.device_z.device
+            signal_z = self._image_config.device_z.signal
         except AttributeError:
             return
 
         if access_key == "val":
-            x_data = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
-            y_data = data.get(y_name, {}).get(y_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
-            z_data = data.get(z_name, {}).get(z_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
+            x_data = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x, {}).get(access_key, None)
+            y_data = data.get(device_y, {}).get(signal_y, {}).get(access_key, None)
+            z_data = data.get(device_z, {}).get(signal_z, {}).get(access_key, None)
         else:
-            x_data = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry, {}).read().get("value", None)
-            y_data = data.get(y_name, {}).get(y_entry, {}).read().get("value", None)
-            z_data = data.get(z_name, {}).get(z_entry, {}).read().get("value", None)
+            x_data = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x, {}).read().get("value", None)
+            y_data = data.get(device_y, {}).get(signal_y, {}).read().get("value", None)
+            z_data = data.get(device_z, {}).get(signal_z, {}).read().get("value", None)
 
             if not isinstance(x_data, list):
                 x_data = x_data.tolist() if isinstance(x_data, np.ndarray) else None
@@ -839,7 +839,6 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
             x_data (np.ndarray): The x data.
             y_data (np.ndarray): The y data.
             z_data (np.ndarray): The z data.
-            msg (messages.ScanStatusMessage): The scan status message.
 
         Returns:
             tuple[np.ndarray, QTransform]: The image data and the QTransform.
@@ -854,7 +853,7 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         if len(z_data) < 4:
             # LinearNDInterpolator requires at least 4 points to interpolate
             return None, None
-        return self.get_step_scan_image(x_data, y_data, z_data, msg)
+        return self.get_step_scan_image(x_data, y_data, z_data)
 
     def _is_grid_scan_supported(self, msg: messages.ScanStatusMessage) -> bool:
         """Check if the scan can use optimized grid_scan rendering.
@@ -871,11 +870,11 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         if msg.scan_name != "grid_scan" or self._image_config.enforce_interpolation:
             return False
 
-        device_x = self._image_config.x_device.entry
-        device_y = self._image_config.y_device.entry
+        signal_x = self._image_config.device_x.signal
+        signal_y = self._image_config.device_y.signal
         return (
-            device_x in msg.request_inputs["arg_bundle"]
-            and device_y in msg.request_inputs["arg_bundle"]
+            signal_x in msg.request_inputs["arg_bundle"]
+            and signal_y in msg.request_inputs["arg_bundle"]
         )
 
     def get_grid_scan_image(
@@ -893,9 +892,9 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
 
         args = self.arg_bundle_to_dict(4, msg.request_inputs["arg_bundle"])
 
-        x_entry = self._image_config.x_device.entry
-        y_entry = self._image_config.y_device.entry
-        shape = (args[x_entry][-1], args[y_entry][-1])
+        signal_x = self._image_config.device_x.signal
+        signal_y = self._image_config.device_y.signal
+        shape = (args[signal_x][-1], args[signal_y][-1])
 
         data = self.main_image.raw_data
 
@@ -925,8 +924,8 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
                 return origin + np.linspace(start, stop, npts)
             return np.linspace(start, stop, npts)
 
-        x_levels = _axis_levels(x_entry, shape[0])
-        y_levels = _axis_levels(y_entry, shape[1])
+        x_levels = _axis_levels(signal_x, shape[0])
+        y_levels = _axis_levels(signal_y, shape[1])
 
         pixel_size_x = (
             float(x_levels[-1] - x_levels[0]) / max(shape[0] - 1, 1) if shape[0] > 1 else 1.0
@@ -949,7 +948,7 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
             if snaked and (slow_i % 2 == 1):
                 fast_i = args[fast_entry][-1] - 1 - fast_i
 
-            if x_entry == fast_entry:
+            if signal_x == fast_entry:
                 x_i, y_i = fast_i, slow_i
             else:
                 x_i, y_i = slow_i, fast_i
@@ -959,11 +958,7 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         return data, transform
 
     def get_step_scan_image(
-        self,
-        x_data: list[float],
-        y_data: list[float],
-        z_data: list[float],
-        msg: messages.ScanStatusMessage,
+        self, x_data: list[float], y_data: list[float], z_data: list[float]
     ) -> tuple[np.ndarray, QTransform]:
         """
         Get the image data for an arbitrary step scan.
@@ -972,7 +967,6 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
             x_data (list[float]): The x data.
             y_data (list[float]): The y data.
             z_data (list[float]): The z data.
-            msg (messages.ScanStatusMessage): The scan status message.
 
         Returns:
             tuple[np.ndarray, QTransform]: The image data and the QTransform.
@@ -1033,7 +1027,7 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         to avoid recalculating the grid for the same scan.
 
         Args:
-            _scan_id (str): The scan ID. Needed for caching but not used in the function.
+            positions: positions of the data points.
 
         Returns:
             tuple[np.ndarray, np.ndarray, QTransform]: The grid x and y coordinates and the QTransform.
@@ -1108,11 +1102,13 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
 
         return max(1, width_pixels), max(1, height_pixels)
 
-    def arg_bundle_to_dict(self, bundle_size: int, args: list) -> dict:
+    @staticmethod
+    def arg_bundle_to_dict(bundle_size: int, args: list) -> dict:
         """
         Convert the argument bundle to a dictionary.
 
         Args:
+            bundle_size (int): The size of each argument bundle.
             args (list): The argument bundle.
 
         Returns:
@@ -1160,14 +1156,14 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
     ################################################################################
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def x_device_name(self) -> str:
+    def device_x(self) -> str:
         """Device name for the X axis."""
-        if self._image_config.x_device is None:
+        if self._image_config.device_x is None:
             return ""
-        return self._image_config.x_device.name or ""
+        return self._image_config.device_x.device or ""
 
-    @x_device_name.setter
-    def x_device_name(self, device_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_x.setter
+    def device_x(self, device_name: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the X device name.
 
@@ -1179,27 +1175,27 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         # Get current entry or validate
         if device_name:
             try:
-                entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
-                self._image_config.x_device = HeatmapDeviceSignal(name=device_name, entry=entry)
-                self.property_changed.emit("x_device_name", device_name)
+                signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
+                self._image_config.device_x = HeatmapDeviceSignal(device=device_name, signal=signal)
+                self.property_changed.emit("device_x", device_name)
                 self.update_labels()  # Update axis labels
                 self._try_auto_plot()
             except Exception:
                 pass  # Silently fail if device is not available yet
         else:
-            self._image_config.x_device = None
-            self.property_changed.emit("x_device_name", "")
+            self._image_config.device_x = None
+            self.property_changed.emit("device_x", "")
             self.update_labels()  # Clear axis labels
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def x_device_entry(self) -> str:
+    def signal_x(self) -> str:
         """Signal entry for the X axis device."""
-        if self._image_config.x_device is None:
+        if self._image_config.device_x is None:
             return ""
-        return self._image_config.x_device.entry or ""
+        return self._image_config.device_x.signal or ""
 
-    @x_device_entry.setter
-    def x_device_entry(self, entry: str) -> None:
+    @signal_x.setter
+    def signal_x(self, entry: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the X device entry.
 
@@ -1209,32 +1205,32 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         if not entry:
             return
 
-        if self._image_config.x_device is None:
-            logger.warning("Cannot set x_device_entry without x_device_name set first.")
+        if self._image_config.device_x is None:
+            logger.warning("Cannot set signal_x without device_x set first.")
             return
 
-        device_name = self._image_config.x_device.name
+        device_name = self._image_config.device_x.device
         try:
             # Validate the entry for this device
-            validated_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
-            self._image_config.x_device = HeatmapDeviceSignal(
-                name=device_name, entry=validated_entry
+            validated_signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
+            self._image_config.device_x = HeatmapDeviceSignal(
+                device=device_name, signal=validated_signal
             )
-            self.property_changed.emit("x_device_entry", validated_entry)
+            self.property_changed.emit("signal_x", validated_signal)
             self.update_labels()  # Update axis labels
             self._try_auto_plot()
         except Exception:
             pass  # Silently fail if validation fails
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def y_device_name(self) -> str:
+    def device_y(self) -> str:
         """Device name for the Y axis."""
-        if self._image_config.y_device is None:
+        if self._image_config.device_y is None:
             return ""
-        return self._image_config.y_device.name or ""
+        return self._image_config.device_y.device or ""
 
-    @y_device_name.setter
-    def y_device_name(self, device_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_y.setter
+    def device_y(self, device_name: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Y device name.
 
@@ -1246,27 +1242,27 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         # Get current entry or validate
         if device_name:
             try:
-                entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
-                self._image_config.y_device = HeatmapDeviceSignal(name=device_name, entry=entry)
-                self.property_changed.emit("y_device_name", device_name)
+                signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
+                self._image_config.device_y = HeatmapDeviceSignal(device=device_name, signal=signal)
+                self.property_changed.emit("device_y", device_name)
                 self.update_labels()  # Update axis labels
                 self._try_auto_plot()
             except Exception:
                 pass  # Silently fail if device is not available yet
         else:
-            self._image_config.y_device = None
-            self.property_changed.emit("y_device_name", "")
+            self._image_config.device_y = None
+            self.property_changed.emit("device_y", "")
             self.update_labels()  # Clear axis labels
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def y_device_entry(self) -> str:
+    def signal_y(self) -> str:
         """Signal entry for the Y axis device."""
-        if self._image_config.y_device is None:
+        if self._image_config.device_y is None:
             return ""
-        return self._image_config.y_device.entry or ""
+        return self._image_config.device_y.signal or ""
 
-    @y_device_entry.setter
-    def y_device_entry(self, entry: str) -> None:
+    @signal_y.setter
+    def signal_y(self, entry: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Y device entry.
 
@@ -1276,18 +1272,18 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         if not entry:
             return
 
-        if self._image_config.y_device is None:
-            logger.warning("Cannot set y_device_entry without y_device_name set first.")
+        if self._image_config.device_y is None:
+            logger.warning("Cannot set signal_y without device_y set first.")
             return
 
-        device_name = self._image_config.y_device.name
+        device_name = self._image_config.device_y.device
         try:
             # Validate the entry for this device
-            validated_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
-            self._image_config.y_device = HeatmapDeviceSignal(
-                name=device_name, entry=validated_entry
+            validated_signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
+            self._image_config.device_y = HeatmapDeviceSignal(
+                device=device_name, signal=validated_signal
             )
-            self.property_changed.emit("y_device_entry", validated_entry)
+            self.property_changed.emit("signal_y", validated_signal)
             self.update_labels()  # Update axis labels
             self._try_auto_plot()
         except Exception as e:
@@ -1295,14 +1291,14 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
             pass  # Silently fail if validation fails
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def z_device_name(self) -> str:
+    def device_z(self) -> str:
         """Device name for the Z (color) axis."""
-        if self._image_config.z_device is None:
+        if self._image_config.device_z is None:
             return ""
-        return self._image_config.z_device.name or ""
+        return self._image_config.device_z.device or ""
 
-    @z_device_name.setter
-    def z_device_name(self, device_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_z.setter
+    def device_z(self, device_name: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Z device name.
 
@@ -1314,28 +1310,28 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         # Get current entry or validate
         if device_name:
             try:
-                entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
-                self._image_config.z_device = HeatmapDeviceSignal(name=device_name, entry=entry)
-                self.property_changed.emit("z_device_name", device_name)
+                signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
+                self._image_config.device_z = HeatmapDeviceSignal(device=device_name, signal=signal)
+                self.property_changed.emit("device_z", device_name)
                 self.update_labels()  # Update axis labels (title)
                 self._try_auto_plot()
             except Exception as e:
                 logger.debug(f"Z device name validation failed: {e}")
                 pass  # Silently fail if device is not available yet
         else:
-            self._image_config.z_device = None
-            self.property_changed.emit("z_device_name", "")
+            self._image_config.device_z = None
+            self.property_changed.emit("device_z", "")
             self.update_labels()  # Clear axis labels
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def z_device_entry(self) -> str:
+    def signal_z(self) -> str:
         """Signal entry for the Z (color) axis device."""
-        if self._image_config.z_device is None:
+        if self._image_config.device_z is None:
             return ""
-        return self._image_config.z_device.entry or ""
+        return self._image_config.device_z.signal or ""
 
-    @z_device_entry.setter
-    def z_device_entry(self, entry: str) -> None:
+    @signal_z.setter
+    def signal_z(self, entry: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Z device entry.
 
@@ -1345,18 +1341,18 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         if not entry:
             return
 
-        if self._image_config.z_device is None:
-            logger.warning("Cannot set z_device_entry without z_device_name set first.")
+        if self._image_config.device_z is None:
+            logger.warning("Cannot set signal_z without device_z set first.")
             return
 
-        device_name = self._image_config.z_device.name
+        device_name = self._image_config.device_z.device
         try:
             # Validate the entry for this device
-            validated_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
-            self._image_config.z_device = HeatmapDeviceSignal(
-                name=device_name, entry=validated_entry
+            validated_signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
+            self._image_config.device_z = HeatmapDeviceSignal(
+                device=device_name, signal=validated_signal
             )
-            self.property_changed.emit("z_device_entry", validated_entry)
+            self.property_changed.emit("signal_z", validated_signal)
             self.update_labels()  # Update axis labels (title)
             self._try_auto_plot()
         except Exception as e:
@@ -1368,25 +1364,25 @@ class Heatmap(ImageBase):
         Attempt to automatically call plot() if all three devices are set.
         Similar to waveform's approach but requires all three devices.
         """
-        has_x = self._image_config.x_device is not None
-        has_y = self._image_config.y_device is not None
-        has_z = self._image_config.z_device is not None
+        has_x = self._image_config.device_x is not None
+        has_y = self._image_config.device_y is not None
+        has_z = self._image_config.device_z is not None
 
         if has_x and has_y and has_z:
-            x_name = self._image_config.x_device.name
-            x_entry = self._image_config.x_device.entry
-            y_name = self._image_config.y_device.name
-            y_entry = self._image_config.y_device.entry
-            z_name = self._image_config.z_device.name
-            z_entry = self._image_config.z_device.entry
+            device_x = self._image_config.device_x.device
+            signal_x = self._image_config.device_x.signal
+            device_y = self._image_config.device_y.device
+            signal_y = self._image_config.device_y.signal
+            device_z = self._image_config.device_z.device
+            signal_z = self._image_config.device_z.signal
             try:
                 self.plot(
-                    x_name=x_name,
-                    y_name=y_name,
-                    z_name=z_name,
-                    x_entry=x_entry,
-                    y_entry=y_entry,
-                    z_entry=z_entry,
+                    device_x=device_x,
+                    device_y=device_y,
+                    device_z=device_z,
+                    signal_x=signal_x,
+                    signal_y=signal_y,
+                    signal_z=signal_z,
                     validate_bec=False,  # Don't validate - entries already validated
                 )
             except Exception as e:
@@ -1533,6 +1529,6 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
 
     app = QApplication(sys.argv)
     heatmap = Heatmap()
-    heatmap.plot(x_name="samx", y_name="samy", z_name="bpm4i", oversampling_factor=5.0)
+    heatmap.plot(device_x="samx", device_y="samy", device_z="bpm4i", oversampling_factor=5.0)
     heatmap.show()
     sys.exit(app.exec_())

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/heatmap/settings/heatmap_setting.py

@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ class HeatmapSettings(SettingWidget):
         if popup is False:
             self.ui.button_apply.clicked.connect(self.accept_changes)
 
-        self.ui.x_name.setFocus()
+        self.ui.device_x.setFocus()
 
     @SafeSlot()
     def fetch_all_properties(self):
@@ -62,44 +62,44 @@ class HeatmapSettings(SettingWidget):
         color_map = getattr(self.target_widget, "color_map", None)
 
         # Default values for device properties
-        x_name, x_entry = None, None
-        y_name, y_entry = None, None
-        z_name, z_entry = None, None
+        device_x, signal_x = None, None
+        device_y, signal_y = None, None
+        device_z, signal_z = None, None
 
         # Safely access device properties
         if hasattr(self.target_widget, "_image_config") and self.target_widget._image_config:
             config = self.target_widget._image_config
 
-            if hasattr(config, "x_device") and config.x_device:
-                x_name = getattr(config.x_device, "name", None)
-                x_entry = getattr(config.x_device, "entry", None)
+            if hasattr(config, "device_x") and config.device_x:
+                device_x = getattr(config.device_x, "device", None)
+                signal_x = getattr(config.device_x, "signal", None)
 
-            if hasattr(config, "y_device") and config.y_device:
-                y_name = getattr(config.y_device, "name", None)
-                y_entry = getattr(config.y_device, "entry", None)
+            if hasattr(config, "device_y") and config.device_y:
+                device_y = getattr(config.device_y, "device", None)
+                signal_y = getattr(config.device_y, "signal", None)
 
-            if hasattr(config, "z_device") and config.z_device:
-                z_name = getattr(config.z_device, "name", None)
-                z_entry = getattr(config.z_device, "entry", None)
+            if hasattr(config, "device_z") and config.device_z:
+                device_z = getattr(config.device_z, "device", None)
+                signal_z = getattr(config.device_z, "signal", None)
 
         # Apply the properties to the settings widget
         if hasattr(self.ui, "color_map"):
             self.ui.color_map.colormap = color_map
 
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "x_name"):
-            self.ui.x_name.set_device(x_name)
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "x_entry") and x_entry is not None:
-            self.ui.x_entry.set_to_obj_name(x_entry)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "device_x"):
+            self.ui.device_x.set_device(device_x)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "signal_x") and signal_x is not None:
+            self.ui.signal_x.set_to_obj_name(signal_x)
 
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "y_name"):
-            self.ui.y_name.set_device(y_name)
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "y_entry") and y_entry is not None:
-            self.ui.y_entry.set_to_obj_name(y_entry)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "device_y"):
+            self.ui.device_y.set_device(device_y)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "signal_y") and signal_y is not None:
+            self.ui.signal_y.set_to_obj_name(signal_y)
 
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "z_name"):
-            self.ui.z_name.set_device(z_name)
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "z_entry") and z_entry is not None:
-            self.ui.z_entry.set_to_obj_name(z_entry)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "device_z"):
+            self.ui.device_z.set_device(device_z)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "signal_z") and signal_z is not None:
+            self.ui.signal_z.set_to_obj_name(signal_z)
 
         if hasattr(self.ui, "interpolation"):
             self.ui.interpolation.setCurrentText(
@@ -119,12 +119,12 @@ class HeatmapSettings(SettingWidget):
         """
         Apply all properties from the settings widget to the target widget.
         """
-        x_name = self.ui.x_name.currentText()
-        x_entry = self.ui.x_entry.get_signal_name()
-        y_name = self.ui.y_name.currentText()
-        y_entry = self.ui.y_entry.get_signal_name()
-        z_name = self.ui.z_name.currentText()
-        z_entry = self.ui.z_entry.get_signal_name()
+        device_x = self.ui.device_x.currentText()
+        signal_x = self.ui.signal_x.get_signal_name()
+        device_y = self.ui.device_y.currentText()
+        signal_y = self.ui.signal_y.get_signal_name()
+        device_z = self.ui.device_z.currentText()
+        signal_z = self.ui.signal_z.get_signal_name()
         validate_bec = self.ui.validate_bec.checked
         color_map = self.ui.color_map.colormap
         interpolation = self.ui.interpolation.currentText()
@@ -132,12 +132,12 @@ class HeatmapSettings(SettingWidget):
         enforce_interpolation = self.ui.enforce_interpolation.isChecked()
 
         self.target_widget.plot(
-            x_name=x_name,
-            y_name=y_name,
-            z_name=z_name,
-            x_entry=x_entry,
-            y_entry=y_entry,
-            z_entry=z_entry,
+            device_x=device_x,
+            device_y=device_y,
+            device_z=device_z,
+            signal_x=signal_x,
+            signal_y=signal_y,
+            signal_z=signal_z,
             color_map=color_map,
             validate_bec=validate_bec,
             interpolation=interpolation,
@@ -147,17 +147,17 @@ class HeatmapSettings(SettingWidget):
         )
 
     def cleanup(self):
-        self.ui.x_name.close()
-        self.ui.x_name.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.x_entry.close()
-        self.ui.x_entry.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.y_name.close()
-        self.ui.y_name.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.y_entry.close()
-        self.ui.y_entry.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.z_name.close()
-        self.ui.z_name.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.z_entry.close()
-        self.ui.z_entry.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.device_x.close()
+        self.ui.device_x.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.signal_x.close()
+        self.ui.signal_x.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.device_y.close()
+        self.ui.device_y.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.signal_y.close()
+        self.ui.signal_y.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.device_z.close()
+        self.ui.device_z.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.signal_z.close()
+        self.ui.signal_z.deleteLater()
         self.ui.interpolation.close()
         self.ui.interpolation.deleteLater()

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/heatmap/settings/heatmap_settings_horizontal.ui

@@ -196,7 +196,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="0" column="1">
-         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="x_name">
+         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_x">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -206,7 +206,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="1" column="1">
-         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="x_entry">
+         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_x">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -236,7 +236,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="0" column="1">
-         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="y_name">
+         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_y">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -246,7 +246,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="1" column="1">
-         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="y_entry">
+         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_y">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -276,7 +276,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="0" column="1">
-         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="z_name">
+         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_z">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -286,7 +286,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="1" column="1">
-         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="z_entry">
+         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_z">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -322,21 +322,21 @@
   </customwidget>
  </customwidgets>
  <tabstops>
-  <tabstop>x_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>y_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>z_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>x_entry</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>y_entry</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>z_entry</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_x</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_y</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_z</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_x</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_y</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_z</tabstop>
   <tabstop>interpolation</tabstop>
   <tabstop>oversampling_factor</tabstop>
  </tabstops>
  <resources/>
  <connections>
   <connection>
-   <sender>x_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_x</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>x_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_x</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -350,9 +350,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>x_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_x</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>x_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_x</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -366,9 +366,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>y_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_y</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>y_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_y</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -382,9 +382,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>y_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_y</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>y_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_y</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -398,9 +398,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>z_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_z</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>z_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_z</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -414,9 +414,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>z_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_z</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>z_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_z</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/heatmap/settings/heatmap_settings_vertical.ui

@@ -69,7 +69,7 @@
        </widget>
       </item>
       <item row="0" column="1">
-       <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="x_name">
+       <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_x">
         <property name="editable">
          <bool>true</bool>
         </property>
@@ -79,7 +79,7 @@
        </widget>
       </item>
       <item row="1" column="1">
-       <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="x_entry">
+       <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_x">
         <property name="editable">
          <bool>true</bool>
         </property>
@@ -109,7 +109,7 @@
        </widget>
       </item>
       <item row="0" column="1">
-       <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="y_name">
+       <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_y">
         <property name="editable">
          <bool>true</bool>
         </property>
@@ -119,7 +119,7 @@
        </widget>
       </item>
       <item row="1" column="1">
-       <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="y_entry">
+       <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_y">
         <property name="editable">
          <bool>true</bool>
         </property>
@@ -142,7 +142,7 @@
        </widget>
       </item>
       <item row="0" column="1">
-       <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="z_name">
+       <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_z">
         <property name="editable">
          <bool>true</bool>
         </property>
@@ -152,7 +152,7 @@
        </widget>
       </item>
       <item row="1" column="1">
-       <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="z_entry">
+       <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_z">
         <property name="editable">
          <bool>true</bool>
         </property>
@@ -264,20 +264,20 @@
   </customwidget>
  </customwidgets>
  <tabstops>
-  <tabstop>x_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>y_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>z_name</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_x</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_y</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_z</tabstop>
   <tabstop>button_apply</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>x_entry</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>y_entry</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>z_entry</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_x</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_y</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_z</tabstop>
  </tabstops>
  <resources/>
  <connections>
   <connection>
-   <sender>x_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_x</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>x_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_x</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -291,9 +291,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>x_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_x</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>x_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_x</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -307,9 +307,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>y_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_y</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>y_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_y</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -323,9 +323,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>y_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_y</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>y_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_y</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -339,9 +339,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>z_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_z</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>z_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_z</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -355,9 +355,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>z_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_z</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>z_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_z</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/image/image.py

@@ -42,8 +42,8 @@ class ImageConfig(ConnectionConfig):
 
 
 class ImageLayerConfig(BaseModel):
-    device_name: str = Field("", description="The device name to monitor.")
-    device_entry: str = Field("", description="The signal/entry name to monitor on the device.")
+    device: str = Field("", description="The device name to monitor.")
+    signal: str = Field("", description="The signal/entry name to monitor on the device.")
     monitor_type: Literal["1d", "2d"] | None = Field(None, description="The type of monitor.")
     source: Literal["device_monitor_1d", "device_monitor_2d"] | None = Field(
         None, description="The source of the image data."
@@ -80,10 +80,10 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
         "autorange.setter",
         "autorange_mode",
         "autorange_mode.setter",
-        "device_name",
-        "device_name.setter",
-        "device_entry",
-        "device_entry.setter",
+        "device",
+        "device.setter",
+        "signal",
+        "signal.setter",
         "enable_colorbar",
         "enable_simple_colorbar",
         "enable_simple_colorbar.setter",
@@ -206,19 +206,19 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             signal_text = device_selection.signal_combo_box.currentText()
 
             if not device:
-                self.device_name = ""
+                self.device = ""
                 return
             if not device_selection.device_combo_box.is_valid_input:
                 return
 
             if not device_selection.signal_combo_box.is_valid_input:
-                if self._config.device_entry:
-                    self.device_entry = ""
-                if device != self._config.device_name:
-                    self.device_name = device
+                if self._config.signal:
+                    self.signal = ""
+                if device != self._config.device:
+                    self.device = device
                 return
 
-            if device == self._config.device_name and signal_text == self._config.device_entry:
+            if device == self._config.device and signal_text == self._config.signal:
                 return
 
             # Get the signal config stored in the combobox
@@ -235,8 +235,8 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
 
             # Store signal config and set properties which will trigger the connection
             self._signal_configs["main"] = signal_config
-            self.device_name = device
-            self.device_entry = signal_text
+            self.device = device
+            self.signal = signal_text
         finally:
             self._device_selection_updating = False
 
@@ -244,55 +244,53 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
     # Data Acquisition
 
     @SafeProperty(str, auto_emit=True)
-    def device_name(self) -> str:
+    def device(self) -> str:
         """
         The name of the device to monitor for image data.
         """
-        return self._config.device_name
+        return self._config.device
 
-    @device_name.setter
-    def device_name(self, value: str):
+    @device.setter
+    def device(self, value: str):
         """
-        Set the device name for the image. This should be used together with device_entry.
-        When both device_name and device_entry are set, the widget connects to that device signal.
+        Set the device name for the image. This should be used together with signal.
+        When both device and signal are set, the widget connects to that device signal.
 
         Args:
             value(str): The name of the device to monitor.
         """
         if not value:
             # Clear the monitor if empty device name
-            if self._config.device_name:
+            if self._config.device:
                 self._disconnect_current_monitor()
-                self._config.device_name = ""
-                self._config.device_entry = ""
+                self._config.device = ""
+                self._config.signal = ""
                 self._signal_configs.pop("main", None)
                 self._set_connection_status("disconnected")
             return
 
-        old_device = self._config.device_name
-        self._config.device_name = value
+        old_device = self._config.device
+        self._config.device = value
 
-        # If we have a device_entry, reconnect with the new device
-        if self._config.device_entry:
+        # If we have a signal, reconnect with the new device
+        if self._config.signal:
             # Try to get fresh signal config for the new device
             try:
                 device_obj = self.dev[value]
                 # Try to get signal config for the current entry
-                if self._config.device_entry in device_obj._info.get("signals", {}):
-                    self._signal_configs["main"] = device_obj._info["signals"][
-                        self._config.device_entry
-                    ]
+                if self._config.signal in device_obj._info.get("signals", {}):
+                    self._signal_configs["main"] = device_obj._info["signals"][self._config.signal]
                     self._setup_connection()
                 else:
                     # Signal doesn't exist on new device
                     logger.warning(
-                        f"Signal '{self._config.device_entry}' doesn't exist on device '{value}'"
+                        f"Signal '{self._config.signal}' doesn't exist on device '{value}'"
                     )
                     self._disconnect_current_monitor()
-                    self._config.device_entry = ""
+                    self._config.signal = ""
                     self._signal_configs.pop("main", None)
                     self._set_connection_status(
-                        "error", f"Signal '{self._config.device_entry}' doesn't exist"
+                        "error", f"Signal '{self._config.signal}' doesn't exist"
                     )
             except (KeyError, AttributeError):
                 # Device doesn't exist
@@ -304,40 +302,40 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
         # Toolbar sync happens via SafeProperty auto_emit property_changed handling.
 
     @SafeProperty(str, auto_emit=True)
-    def device_entry(self) -> str:
+    def signal(self) -> str:
         """
         The signal/entry name to monitor on the device.
         """
-        return self._config.device_entry
+        return self._config.signal
 
-    @device_entry.setter
-    def device_entry(self, value: str):
+    @signal.setter
+    def signal(self, value: str):
         """
-        Set the device entry (signal) for the image. This should be used together with device_name.
+        Set the device signal for the image. This should be used together with device.
         When set, it will connect to updates from that device signal.
 
         Args:
             value(str): The signal name to monitor.
         """
         if not value:
-            if self._config.device_entry:
+            if self._config.signal:
                 self._disconnect_current_monitor()
-                self._config.device_entry = ""
+                self._config.signal = ""
                 self._signal_configs.pop("main", None)
                 self._set_connection_status("disconnected")
             return
 
-        self._config.device_entry = value
+        self._config.signal = value
 
-        # If we have a device_name, try to connect
-        if self._config.device_name:
+        # If we have a device, try to connect
+        if self._config.device:
             try:
-                device_obj = self.dev[self._config.device_name]
+                device_obj = self.dev[self._config.device]
                 signal_config = device_obj._info["signals"].get(value)
                 if not isinstance(signal_config, dict) or not signal_config.get("signal_class"):
                     logger.warning(
                         f"Could not find valid configuration for signal '{value}' "
-                        f"on device '{self._config.device_name}'."
+                        f"on device '{self._config.device}'."
                     )
                     self._signal_configs.pop("main", None)
                     self._set_connection_status("error", f"Signal '{value}' not found")
@@ -347,14 +345,14 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
                 self._setup_connection()
             except (KeyError, AttributeError):
                 logger.warning(
-                    f"Could not find signal '{value}' on device '{self._config.device_name}'."
+                    f"Could not find signal '{value}' on device '{self._config.device}'."
                 )
                 # Remove signal config if it can't be fetched
                 self._signal_configs.pop("main", None)
                 self._set_connection_status("error", f"Signal '{value}' not found")
 
         else:
-            logger.debug(f"device_entry setter: No device set yet for signal '{value}'")
+            logger.debug(f"signal setter: No device set yet for signal '{value}'")
 
     @property
     def main_image(self) -> ImageItem:
@@ -363,17 +361,17 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
 
     def _setup_connection(self):
         """
-        Internal method to setup connection based on current device_name, device_entry, and signal_config.
+        Internal method to setup connection based on current device, signal, and signal_config.
         """
-        if not self._config.device_name or not self._config.device_entry:
-            logger.warning("Cannot setup connection without both device_name and device_entry")
+        if not self._config.device or not self._config.signal:
+            logger.warning("Cannot setup connection without both device and signal")
             self._set_connection_status("disconnected")
             return
 
         signal_config = self._signal_configs.get("main")
         if not signal_config:
             logger.warning(
-                f"Cannot setup connection for {self._config.device_name}.{self._config.device_entry} without signal_config"
+                f"Cannot setup connection for {self._config.device}.{self._config.signal} without signal_config"
             )
             self._set_connection_status("error", "Missing signal config")
             return
@@ -387,7 +385,7 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
 
         if signal_class not in supported_classes:
             logger.warning(
-                f"Signal '{self._config.device_name}.{self._config.device_entry}' has unsupported signal class '{signal_class}'. "
+                f"Signal '{self._config.device}.{self._config.signal}' has unsupported signal class '{signal_class}'. "
                 f"Supported classes: {supported_classes}"
             )
             self._set_connection_status("error", f"Unsupported signal class '{signal_class}'")
@@ -399,7 +397,7 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
 
         if ndim is None:
             logger.warning(
-                f"Signal '{self._config.device_name}.{self._config.device_entry}' does not have a valid 'ndim' in its signal_info."
+                f"Signal '{self._config.device}.{self._config.signal}' does not have a valid 'ndim' in its signal_info."
             )
             self._set_connection_status("error", "Missing ndim in signal_info")
             return
@@ -414,14 +412,12 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             if signal_class == "PreviewSignal":
                 self.bec_dispatcher.connect_slot(
                     self.on_image_update_1d,
-                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(
-                        self._config.device_name, self._config.device_entry
-                    ),
+                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(self._config.device, self._config.signal),
                 )
             elif signal_class in self.SUPPORTED_SIGNALS:
                 self.async_update = True
                 config.async_signal_name = signal_config.get(
-                    "obj_name", f"{self._config.device_name}_{self._config.device_entry}"
+                    "obj_name", f"{self._config.device}_{self._config.signal}"
                 )
                 self._setup_async_image(self.scan_id)
         elif ndim == 2:
@@ -430,26 +426,24 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             if signal_class == "PreviewSignal":
                 self.bec_dispatcher.connect_slot(
                     self.on_image_update_2d,
-                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(
-                        self._config.device_name, self._config.device_entry
-                    ),
+                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(self._config.device, self._config.signal),
                 )
             elif signal_class in self.SUPPORTED_SIGNALS:
                 self.async_update = True
                 config.async_signal_name = signal_config.get(
-                    "obj_name", f"{self._config.device_name}_{self._config.device_entry}"
+                    "obj_name", f"{self._config.device}_{self._config.signal}"
                 )
                 self._setup_async_image(self.scan_id)
         else:
             logger.warning(
-                f"Unsupported ndim '{ndim}' for monitor '{self._config.device_name}.{self._config.device_entry}'."
+                f"Unsupported ndim '{ndim}' for monitor '{self._config.device}.{self._config.signal}'."
             )
             self._set_connection_status("error", f"Unsupported ndim '{ndim}'")
             return
 
         self._set_connection_status("connected")
         logger.info(
-            f"Connected to {self._config.device_name}.{self._config.device_entry} with type {config.monitor_type}"
+            f"Connected to {self._config.device}.{self._config.signal} with type {config.monitor_type}"
         )
         self._autorange_on_next_update = True
 
@@ -457,13 +451,13 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
         """
         Internal method to disconnect the current monitor subscriptions.
         """
-        if not self._config.device_name or not self._config.device_entry:
+        if not self._config.device or not self._config.signal:
             return
 
         config = self.subscriptions["main"]
 
         if self.async_update:
-            async_signal_name = config.async_signal_name or self._config.device_entry
+            async_signal_name = config.async_signal_name or self._config.signal
             ids_to_check = [self.scan_id, self.old_scan_id]
 
             if config.source == "device_monitor_1d":
@@ -473,11 +467,11 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
                     self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(
                         self.on_image_update_1d,
                         MessageEndpoints.device_async_signal(
-                            scan_id, self._config.device_name, async_signal_name
+                            scan_id, self._config.device, async_signal_name
                         ),
                     )
                     logger.info(
-                        f"Disconnecting 1d update ScanID:{scan_id}, Device Name:{self._config.device_name},Device Entry:{async_signal_name}"
+                        f"Disconnecting 1d update ScanID:{scan_id}, Device Name:{self._config.device},Device Entry:{async_signal_name}"
                     )
             elif config.source == "device_monitor_2d":
                 for scan_id in ids_to_check:
@@ -486,33 +480,29 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
                     self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(
                         self.on_image_update_2d,
                         MessageEndpoints.device_async_signal(
-                            scan_id, self._config.device_name, async_signal_name
+                            scan_id, self._config.device, async_signal_name
                         ),
                     )
                     logger.info(
-                        f"Disconnecting 2d update ScanID:{scan_id}, Device Name:{self._config.device_name},Device Entry:{async_signal_name}"
+                        f"Disconnecting 2d update ScanID:{scan_id}, Device Name:{self._config.device},Device Entry:{async_signal_name}"
                     )
 
         else:
             if config.source == "device_monitor_1d":
                 self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(
                     self.on_image_update_1d,
-                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(
-                        self._config.device_name, self._config.device_entry
-                    ),
+                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(self._config.device, self._config.signal),
                 )
                 logger.info(
-                    f"Disconnecting preview 1d update Device Name:{self._config.device_name}, Device Entry:{self._config.device_entry}"
+                    f"Disconnecting preview 1d update Device Name:{self._config.device}, Device Entry:{self._config.signal}"
                 )
             elif config.source == "device_monitor_2d":
                 self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(
                     self.on_image_update_2d,
-                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(
-                        self._config.device_name, self._config.device_entry
-                    ),
+                    MessageEndpoints.device_preview(self._config.device, self._config.signal),
                 )
                 logger.info(
-                    f"Disconnecting preview 2d update Device Name:{self._config.device_name}, Device Entry:{self._config.device_entry}"
+                    f"Disconnecting preview 2d update Device Name:{self._config.device}, Device Entry:{self._config.signal}"
                 )
 
         # Reset async state
@@ -526,8 +516,8 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
     @SafeSlot(popup_error=True)
     def image(
         self,
-        device_name: str | None = None,
-        device_entry: str | None = None,
+        device: str | None = None,
+        signal: str | None = None,
         color_map: str | None = None,
         color_bar: Literal["simple", "full"] | None = None,
         vrange: tuple[int, int] | None = None,
@@ -536,8 +526,8 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
         Set the image source and update the image.
 
         Args:
-            device_name(str|None): The name of the device to monitor. If None or empty string, the current monitor will be disconnected.
-            device_entry(str|None): The signal/entry name to monitor on the device.
+            device(str|None): The name of the device to monitor. If None or empty string, the current monitor will be disconnected.
+            signal(str|None): The signal/entry name to monitor on the device.
             color_map(str): The color map to use for the image.
             color_bar(str): The type of color bar to use. Options are "simple" or "full".
             vrange(tuple): The range of values to use for the color map.
@@ -546,27 +536,27 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             ImageItem: The image object, or None if connection failed.
         """
         # Disconnect existing monitor if any
-        if self._config.device_name and self._config.device_entry:
+        if self._config.device and self._config.signal:
             self._disconnect_current_monitor()
 
-        if not device_name or not device_entry:
-            if device_name or device_entry:
-                logger.warning("Both device_name and device_entry must be specified")
+        if not device or not signal:
+            if device or signal:
+                logger.warning("Both device and signal must be specified")
             else:
                 logger.info("Disconnecting image monitor")
-            self.device_name = ""
+            self.device = ""
             return None
 
         # Validate device
-        self.entry_validator.validate_monitor(device_name)
+        self.entry_validator.validate_monitor(device)
 
         # Clear old entry first to avoid reconnect attempts on the new device
-        if self._config.device_entry:
-            self.device_entry = ""
+        if self._config.signal:
+            self.signal = ""
 
         # Set properties to trigger connection
-        self.device_name = device_name
-        self.device_entry = device_entry
+        self.device = device
+        self.signal = signal
 
         # Apply visual settings
         if color_map is not None:
@@ -581,7 +571,7 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
     def _sync_device_selection(self):
         """
         Synchronize the device and signal comboboxes with the current monitor state.
-        This ensures the toolbar reflects the device_name and device_entry properties.
+        This ensures the toolbar reflects the device and signal properties.
         """
         try:
             device_selection_action = self.toolbar.components.get_action("device_selection")
@@ -593,8 +583,8 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             return
 
         device_selection: DeviceSelection = device_selection_action.widget
-        target_device = self._config.device_name or ""
-        target_entry = self._config.device_entry or ""
+        target_device = self._config.device or ""
+        target_entry = self._config.signal or ""
 
         # Check if already synced
         if (
@@ -605,15 +595,15 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
 
         device_selection.set_device_and_signal(target_device, target_entry)
 
-    def _sync_device_entry_from_toolbar(self) -> None:
+    def _sync_signal_from_toolbar(self) -> None:
         """
-        Pull the signal selection from the toolbar if it differs from the current device_entry.
-        This keeps CLI-driven device_name updates in sync with the signal combobox state.
+        Pull the signal selection from the toolbar if it differs from the current signal.
+        This keeps CLI-driven device updates in sync with the signal combobox state.
         """
         if self._device_selection_updating:
             return
 
-        if not self._config.device_name:
+        if not self._config.device:
             return
 
         try:
@@ -625,17 +615,17 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             return
 
         device_selection: DeviceSelection = device_selection_action.widget
-        if device_selection.device_combo_box.currentText() != self._config.device_name:
+        if device_selection.device_combo_box.currentText() != self._config.device:
             return
 
         signal_text = device_selection.signal_combo_box.currentText()
-        if not signal_text or signal_text == self._config.device_entry:
+        if not signal_text or signal_text == self._config.signal:
             return
 
         signal_config = device_selection.signal_combo_box.get_signal_config()
         if not signal_config:
             try:
-                device_obj = self.dev[self._config.device_name]
+                device_obj = self.dev[self._config.device]
                 signal_config = device_obj._info["signals"].get(signal_text, {})
             except (KeyError, AttributeError):
                 signal_config = None
@@ -646,7 +636,7 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
         self._signal_configs["main"] = signal_config
         self._device_selection_updating = True
         try:
-            self.device_entry = signal_text
+            self.signal = signal_text
         finally:
             self._device_selection_updating = False
 
@@ -795,17 +785,17 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
 
     def _get_async_signal_name(self) -> tuple[str, str] | None:
         """
-        Returns device name and async signal name used for endpoints/messages.
+        Returns device and async signal names used for endpoints/messages.
 
         Returns:
-            tuple[str, str] | None: (device_name, async_signal_name) or None if not available.
+            tuple[str, str] | None: (device, async_signal_name) or None if not available.
         """
-        if not self._config.device_name or not self._config.device_entry:
+        if not self._config.device or not self._config.signal:
             return None
 
         config = self.subscriptions["main"]
-        async_signal = config.async_signal_name or self._config.device_entry
-        return self._config.device_name, async_signal
+        async_signal = config.async_signal_name or self._config.signal
+        return self._config.device, async_signal
 
     def _setup_async_image(self, scan_id: str | None):
         """
@@ -823,7 +813,7 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             logger.info("Async image setup skipped because monitor information is incomplete.")
             return
 
-        device_name, async_signal = async_names
+        device, async_signal = async_names
         if config.monitor_type == "1d":
             slot = self.on_image_update_1d
         elif config.monitor_type == "2d":
@@ -839,7 +829,7 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
             if prev_scan_id is None:
                 continue
             self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(
-                slot, MessageEndpoints.device_async_signal(prev_scan_id, device_name, async_signal)
+                slot, MessageEndpoints.device_async_signal(prev_scan_id, device, async_signal)
             )
 
         if scan_id is None:
@@ -848,26 +838,26 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
 
         self.bec_dispatcher.connect_slot(
             slot,
-            MessageEndpoints.device_async_signal(scan_id, device_name, async_signal),
+            MessageEndpoints.device_async_signal(scan_id, device, async_signal),
             from_start=True,
             cb_info={"scan_id": scan_id},
         )
-        logger.info(f"Setup async image for {device_name}.{async_signal} and scan {scan_id}.")
+        logger.info(f"Setup async image for {device}.{async_signal} and scan {scan_id}.")
 
-    def disconnect_monitor(self, device_name: str | None = None, device_entry: str | None = None):
+    def disconnect_monitor(self, device: str | None = None, signal: str | None = None):
         """
         Disconnect the monitor from the image update signals, both 1D and 2D.
 
         Args:
-            device_name(str|None): The name of the device to disconnect. Defaults to current device.
-            device_entry(str|None): The signal/entry name to disconnect. Defaults to current entry.
+            device(str|None): The name of the device to disconnect. Defaults to current device.
+            signal(str|None): The signal/entry name to disconnect. Defaults to current signal.
         """
         config = self.subscriptions["main"]
-        target_device = device_name or self._config.device_name
-        target_entry = device_entry or self._config.device_entry
+        target_device = device or self._config.device
+        target_entry = signal or self._config.signal
 
         if not target_device or not target_entry:
-            logger.warning("Cannot disconnect monitor without both device_name and device_entry")
+            logger.warning("Cannot disconnect monitor without both device and signal")
             return
 
         if self.async_update:
@@ -1045,10 +1035,10 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
         if layer_name not in self.subscriptions:
             return
         # For the main layer, disconnect current monitor
-        if layer_name == "main" and self._config.device_name and self._config.device_entry:
+        if layer_name == "main" and self._config.device and self._config.signal:
             self._disconnect_current_monitor()
-            self._config.device_name = ""
-            self._config.device_entry = ""
+            self._config.device = ""
+            self._config.signal = ""
             self._signal_configs.pop("main", None)
 
     def cleanup(self):
@@ -1058,7 +1048,7 @@ class Image(ImageBase):
         self.layer_removed.disconnect(self._on_layer_removed)
 
         # Disconnect current monitor
-        if self._config.device_name and self._config.device_entry:
+        if self._config.device and self._config.signal:
             self._disconnect_current_monitor()
 
         self.subscriptions.clear()

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/image/image_base.py

@@ -792,7 +792,10 @@ class ImageBase(PlotBase):
 
             if self._color_bar:
                 self._apply_colormap_to_colorbar(self.config.color_map)
-        except ValidationError:
+        except ValidationError as exc:
+            logger.warning(
+                f"Colormap '{value}' is not available; keeping '{self.config.color_map}'. {exc}"
+            )
             return
 
     @SafeProperty("QPointF")

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/image/toolbar_components/device_selection.py

@@ -30,6 +30,7 @@ class DeviceSelection(QWidget):
         self.device_combo_box.setEditable(True)
         # Set expanding size policy so it grows with available space
         self.device_combo_box.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Policy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed)
+        self.device_combo_box.lineEdit().setPlaceholderText("Select Device")
 
         # Configure SignalComboBox to filter by PreviewSignal and supported async signals
         # Also filter by ndim (1D and 2D only) for Image widget
@@ -50,6 +51,7 @@ class DeviceSelection(QWidget):
         self.signal_combo_box.setEditable(True)
         # Set expanding size policy so it grows with available space
         self.signal_combo_box.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Policy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Policy.Fixed)
+        self.signal_combo_box.lineEdit().setPlaceholderText("Select Signal")
 
         # Connect comboboxes together
         self.device_combo_box.currentTextChanged.connect(self.signal_combo_box.set_device)
@@ -62,32 +64,32 @@ class DeviceSelection(QWidget):
         layout.addWidget(self.device_combo_box, stretch=1)
         layout.addWidget(self.signal_combo_box, stretch=1)
 
-    def set_device_and_signal(self, device_name: str | None, device_entry: str | None) -> None:
+    def set_device_and_signal(self, device: str | None, signal: str | None) -> None:
         """Set the displayed device and signal without emitting selection signals."""
-        device_name = device_name or ""
-        device_entry = device_entry or ""
+        device = device or ""
+        signal = signal or ""
 
         self.device_combo_box.blockSignals(True)
         self.signal_combo_box.blockSignals(True)
 
         try:
-            if device_name:
+            if device:
                 # Set device in device_combo_box
-                index = self.device_combo_box.findText(device_name)
+                index = self.device_combo_box.findText(device)
                 if index >= 0:
                     self.device_combo_box.setCurrentIndex(index)
                 else:
                     # Device not found in list, but still set it
-                    self.device_combo_box.setCurrentText(device_name)
+                    self.device_combo_box.setCurrentText(device)
 
                 # Only update signal combobox device filter if it's actually changing
                 # This prevents redundant repopulation which can cause duplicates !!!!
                 current_device = getattr(self.signal_combo_box, "_device", None)
-                if current_device != device_name:
-                    self.signal_combo_box.set_device(device_name)
+                if current_device != device:
+                    self.signal_combo_box.set_device(device)
 
                 # Sync signal combobox selection
-                if device_entry:
+                if signal:
                     # Try to find the signal by component_name (which is what's displayed)
                     found = False
                     for i in range(self.signal_combo_box.count()):
@@ -97,14 +99,14 @@ class DeviceSelection(QWidget):
                         # Check if this matches our signal
                         if config_data:
                             component_name = config_data.get("component_name", "")
-                            if text == component_name or text == device_entry:
+                            if text == component_name or text == signal:
                                 self.signal_combo_box.setCurrentIndex(i)
                                 found = True
                                 break
 
                     if not found:
-                        # Fallback: try to match the device_entry directly
-                        index = self.signal_combo_box.findText(device_entry)
+                        # Fallback: try to match the signal directly
+                        index = self.signal_combo_box.findText(signal)
                         if index >= 0:
                             self.signal_combo_box.setCurrentIndex(index)
             else:
@@ -185,8 +187,8 @@ class DeviceSelectionConnection(BundleConnection):
         self.components = components
         self.target_widget = target_widget
         self._connected = False
-        self.register_property_sync("device_name", self._sync_from_device_name)
-        self.register_property_sync("device_entry", self._sync_from_device_entry)
+        self.register_property_sync("device", self._sync_from_device)
+        self.register_property_sync("signal", self._sync_from_signal)
         self.register_property_sync("connection_status", self._sync_connection_status)
         self.register_property_sync("connection_error", self._sync_connection_status)
 
@@ -220,26 +222,22 @@ class DeviceSelectionConnection(BundleConnection):
         self._connected = False
         widget.cleanup()
 
-    def _sync_from_device_name(self, _):
+    def _sync_from_device(self, _):
         try:
             widget = self._widget()
         except Exception:
             return
 
-        widget.set_device_and_signal(
-            self.target_widget.device_name, self.target_widget.device_entry
-        )
-        self.target_widget._sync_device_entry_from_toolbar()
+        widget.set_device_and_signal(self.target_widget.device, self.target_widget.signal)
+        self.target_widget._sync_signal_from_toolbar()
 
-    def _sync_from_device_entry(self, _):
+    def _sync_from_signal(self, _):
         try:
             widget = self._widget()
         except Exception:
             return
 
-        widget.set_device_and_signal(
-            self.target_widget.device_name, self.target_widget.device_entry
-        )
+        widget.set_device_and_signal(self.target_widget.device, self.target_widget.signal)
 
     def _sync_connection_status(self, _):
         try:

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/motor_map/motor_map.py

@@ -48,14 +48,14 @@ class FilledRectItem(pg.GraphicsObject):
 
 
 class MotorConfig(BaseModel):
-    name: str | None = Field(None, description="Motor name.")
+    device: str | None = Field(None, description="Motor name.")
     limits: list[float] | None = Field(None, description="Motor limits.")
 
 
 # noinspection PyDataclass
 class MotorMapConfig(ConnectionConfig):
-    x_motor: MotorConfig = Field(default_factory=MotorConfig, description="Motor X name.")
-    y_motor: MotorConfig = Field(default_factory=MotorConfig, description="Motor Y name.")
+    device_x: MotorConfig = Field(default_factory=MotorConfig, description="Motor X name.")
+    device_y: MotorConfig = Field(default_factory=MotorConfig, description="Motor Y name.")
     color: str | tuple | None = Field(
         (255, 255, 255, 255), description="The color of the last point of current position."
     )
@@ -109,10 +109,10 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
         "map",
         "reset_history",
         "get_data",
-        "x_motor",
-        "x_motor.setter",
-        "y_motor",
-        "y_motor.setter",
+        "device_x",
+        "device_x.setter",
+        "device_y",
+        "device_y.setter",
     ]
 
     update_signal = Signal()
@@ -208,7 +208,7 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
             return
 
         if motor_x != "" and motor_y != "":
-            if motor_x != self.config.x_motor.name or motor_y != self.config.y_motor.name:
+            if motor_x != self.config.device_x.device or motor_y != self.config.device_y.device:
                 self.map(motor_x, motor_y)
 
     def _add_motor_map_settings(self):
@@ -259,32 +259,32 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
     ################################################################################
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def x_motor(self) -> str:
+    def device_x(self) -> str:
         """Name of the motor shown on the X axis."""
-        return self.config.x_motor.name or ""
+        return self.config.device_x.device or ""
 
-    @x_motor.setter
-    def x_motor(self, motor_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_x.setter
+    def device_x(self, motor_name: str) -> None:
         motor_name = motor_name or ""
-        if motor_name == (self.config.x_motor.name or ""):
+        if motor_name == (self.config.device_x.device or ""):
             return
-        if motor_name and self.y_motor:
-            self.map(motor_name, self.y_motor, suppress_errors=True)
+        if motor_name and self.device_y:
+            self.map(motor_name, self.device_y, suppress_errors=True)
             return
         self._set_motor_name(axis="x", motor_name=motor_name)
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def y_motor(self) -> str:
+    def device_y(self) -> str:
         """Name of the motor shown on the Y axis."""
-        return self.config.y_motor.name or ""
+        return self.config.device_y.device or ""
 
-    @y_motor.setter
-    def y_motor(self, motor_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_y.setter
+    def device_y(self, motor_name: str) -> None:
         motor_name = motor_name or ""
-        if motor_name == (self.config.y_motor.name or ""):
+        if motor_name == (self.config.device_y.device or ""):
             return
-        if motor_name and self.x_motor:
-            self.map(self.x_motor, motor_name, suppress_errors=True)
+        if motor_name and self.device_x:
+            self.map(self.device_x, motor_name, suppress_errors=True)
             return
         self._set_motor_name(axis="y", motor_name=motor_name)
 
@@ -452,13 +452,13 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
         Update stored motor name for given axis and optionally refresh the toolbar selection.
         """
         motor_name = motor_name or ""
-        motor_config = self.config.x_motor if axis == "x" else self.config.y_motor
+        motor_config = self.config.device_x if axis == "x" else self.config.device_y
 
-        if motor_config.name == motor_name:
+        if motor_config.device == motor_name:
             return
 
-        motor_config.name = motor_name
-        self.property_changed.emit(f"{axis}_motor", motor_name)
+        motor_config.device = motor_name
+        self.property_changed.emit(f"device_{axis}", motor_name)
 
         if sync_toolbar:
             self._sync_motor_map_selection_toolbar()
@@ -468,14 +468,14 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
     ################################################################################
     @SafeSlot()
     def map(
-        self, x_name: str, y_name: str, validate_bec: bool = True, suppress_errors=False
+        self, device_x: str, device_y: str, validate_bec: bool = True, suppress_errors=False
     ) -> None:
         """
         Set the x and y motor names.
 
         Args:
-            x_name(str): The name of the x motor.
-            y_name(str): The name of the y motor.
+            device_x(str): The name of the x motor.
+            device_y(str): The name of the y motor.
             validate_bec(bool, optional): If True, validate the signal with BEC. Defaults to True.
             suppress_errors(bool, optional): If True, suppress errors during validation. Defaults to False. Used for properties setting. If the validation fails, the changes are not applied.
         """
@@ -484,22 +484,22 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
         if validate_bec:
             if suppress_errors:
                 try:
-                    self.entry_validator.validate_signal(x_name, None)
-                    self.entry_validator.validate_signal(y_name, None)
+                    self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_x, None)
+                    self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_y, None)
                 except Exception:
                     return
             else:
-                self.entry_validator.validate_signal(x_name, None)
-                self.entry_validator.validate_signal(y_name, None)
+                self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_x, None)
+                self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_y, None)
 
-        self._set_motor_name(axis="x", motor_name=x_name, sync_toolbar=False)
-        self._set_motor_name(axis="y", motor_name=y_name, sync_toolbar=False)
+        self._set_motor_name(axis="x", motor_name=device_x, sync_toolbar=False)
+        self._set_motor_name(axis="y", motor_name=device_y, sync_toolbar=False)
 
-        motor_x_limit = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.x_motor.name)
-        motor_y_limit = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.y_motor.name)
+        motor_x_limit = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.device_x.device)
+        motor_y_limit = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.device_y.device)
 
-        self.config.x_motor.limits = motor_x_limit
-        self.config.y_motor.limits = motor_y_limit
+        self.config.device_x.limits = motor_x_limit
+        self.config.device_y.limits = motor_y_limit
 
         # reconnect the signals
         self._connect_motor_to_slots()
@@ -574,19 +574,19 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
             msg(dict): Message from the device readback.
             metadata(dict): Metadata of the message.
         """
-        x_motor = self.config.x_motor.name
-        y_motor = self.config.y_motor.name
+        device_x = self.config.device_x.device
+        device_y = self.config.device_y.device
 
-        if x_motor is None or y_motor is None:
+        if device_x is None or device_y is None:
             return
 
-        if x_motor in msg["signals"]:
-            x = msg["signals"][x_motor]["value"]
+        if device_x in msg["signals"]:
+            x = msg["signals"][device_x]["value"]
             self._buffer["x"].append(x)
             self._buffer["y"].append(self._buffer["y"][-1])
 
-        elif y_motor in msg["signals"]:
-            y = msg["signals"][y_motor]["value"]
+        elif device_y in msg["signals"]:
+            y = msg["signals"][device_y]["value"]
             self._buffer["y"].append(y)
             self._buffer["x"].append(self._buffer["x"][-1])
 
@@ -597,12 +597,12 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
         self._disconnect_current_motors()
 
         endpoints_readback = [
-            MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.x_motor.name),
-            MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.y_motor.name),
+            MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.device_x.device),
+            MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.device_y.device),
         ]
         endpoints_limits = [
-            MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.x_motor.name),
-            MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.y_motor.name),
+            MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.device_x.device),
+            MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.device_y.device),
         ]
 
         self.bec_dispatcher.connect_slot(self.on_device_readback, endpoints_readback)
@@ -610,14 +610,14 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
 
     def _disconnect_current_motors(self):
         """Disconnect the current motors from the slots."""
-        if self.config.x_motor.name is not None and self.config.y_motor.name is not None:
+        if self.config.device_x.device is not None and self.config.device_y.device is not None:
             endpoints_readback = [
-                MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.x_motor.name),
-                MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.y_motor.name),
+                MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.device_x.device),
+                MessageEndpoints.device_readback(self.config.device_y.device),
             ]
             endpoints_limits = [
-                MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.x_motor.name),
-                MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.y_motor.name),
+                MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.device_x.device),
+                MessageEndpoints.device_limits(self.config.device_y.device),
             ]
             self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(self.on_device_readback, endpoints_readback)
             self.bec_dispatcher.disconnect_slot(self.on_device_limits, endpoints_limits)
@@ -634,8 +634,8 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
             msg(dict): Message from the device limits.
             metadata(dict): Metadata of the message.
         """
-        self.config.x_motor.limits = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.x_motor.name)
-        self.config.y_motor.limits = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.y_motor.name)
+        self.config.device_x.limits = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.device_x.device)
+        self.config.device_y.limits = self._get_motor_limit(self.config.device_y.device)
         self._swap_limit_map()
 
     def _get_motor_limit(self, motor: str) -> list | None:
@@ -663,8 +663,8 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
         Make the motor map.
         """
 
-        motor_x_limit = self.config.x_motor.limits
-        motor_y_limit = self.config.y_motor.limits
+        motor_x_limit = self.config.device_x.limits
+        motor_y_limit = self.config.device_y.limits
 
         self._limit_map = self._make_limit_map(motor_x_limit, motor_y_limit)
         self.plot_item.addItem(self._limit_map)
@@ -678,10 +678,10 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
 
         # Add the crosshair for initial motor coordinates
         initial_position_x = self._get_motor_init_position(
-            self.config.x_motor.name, self.config.precision
+            self.config.device_x.device, self.config.precision
         )
         initial_position_y = self._get_motor_init_position(
-            self.config.y_motor.name, self.config.precision
+            self.config.device_y.device, self.config.precision
         )
 
         self._buffer["x"] = [initial_position_x]
@@ -693,8 +693,8 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
         self._add_coordinates_crosshair(initial_position_x, initial_position_y)
 
         # Set default labels for the plot
-        self.set_x_label_suffix(f"[{self.config.x_motor.name}-{self.config.x_motor.name}]")
-        self.set_y_label_suffix(f"[{self.config.y_motor.name}-{self.config.y_motor.name}]")
+        self.set_x_label_suffix(f"[{self.config.device_x.device}-{self.config.device_x.device}]")
+        self.set_y_label_suffix(f"[{self.config.device_y.device}-{self.config.device_y.device}]")
 
         self.update_signal.emit()
 
@@ -794,8 +794,8 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
     def _swap_limit_map(self):
         """Swap the limit map."""
         self.plot_item.removeItem(self._limit_map)
-        x_limits = self.config.x_motor.limits
-        y_limits = self.config.y_motor.limits
+        x_limits = self.config.device_x.limits
+        y_limits = self.config.device_y.limits
         if x_limits is not None and y_limits is not None:
             self._limit_map = self._make_limit_map(x_limits, y_limits)
             self._limit_map.setZValue(-1)
@@ -828,8 +828,8 @@ class MotorMap(PlotBase):
         if motor_selection_action is None:
             return
         motor_selection: MotorSelection = motor_selection_action.widget
-        target_x = self.config.x_motor.name or ""
-        target_y = self.config.y_motor.name or ""
+        target_x = self.config.device_x.device or ""
+        target_y = self.config.device_y.device or ""
 
         if (
             motor_selection.motor_x.currentText() == target_x
@@ -864,10 +864,10 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
         self.setCentralWidget(self.main_widget)
 
         self.motor_map_popup = MotorMap(popups=True)
-        self.motor_map_popup.map(x_name="samx", y_name="samy", validate_bec=True)
+        self.motor_map_popup.map(device_x="samx", device_y="samy", validate_bec=True)
 
         self.motor_map_side = MotorMap(popups=False)
-        self.motor_map_side.map(x_name="samx", y_name="samy", validate_bec=True)
+        self.motor_map_side.map(device_x="samx", device_y="samy", validate_bec=True)
 
         self.layout.addWidget(self.motor_map_side)
         self.layout.addWidget(self.motor_map_popup)

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/scatter_waveform/scatter_curve.py

@@ -20,8 +20,8 @@ logger = bec_logger.logger
 class ScatterDeviceSignal(BaseModel):
     """The configuration of a signal in the scatter waveform widget."""
 
-    name: str
-    entry: str
+    device: str
+    signal: str
 
     model_config: dict = {"validate_assignment": True}
 
@@ -40,13 +40,13 @@ class ScatterCurveConfig(ConnectionConfig):
     color_map: str | None = Field(
         "plasma", description="The color palette of the figure widget.", validate_default=True
     )
-    x_device: ScatterDeviceSignal | None = Field(
+    device_x: ScatterDeviceSignal | None = Field(
         None, description="The x device signal of the scatter waveform."
     )
-    y_device: ScatterDeviceSignal | None = Field(
+    device_y: ScatterDeviceSignal | None = Field(
         None, description="The y device signal of the scatter waveform."
     )
-    z_device: ScatterDeviceSignal | None = Field(
+    device_z: ScatterDeviceSignal | None = Field(
         None, description="The z device signal of the scatter waveform."
     )
 

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/scatter_waveform/scatter_waveform.py

@@ -49,18 +49,18 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         "update_with_scan_history",
         "clear_all",
         # Device properties
-        "x_device_name",
-        "x_device_name.setter",
-        "x_device_entry",
-        "x_device_entry.setter",
-        "y_device_name",
-        "y_device_name.setter",
-        "y_device_entry",
-        "y_device_entry.setter",
-        "z_device_name",
-        "z_device_name.setter",
-        "z_device_entry",
-        "z_device_entry.setter",
+        "device_x",
+        "device_x.setter",
+        "signal_x",
+        "signal_x.setter",
+        "device_y",
+        "device_y.setter",
+        "signal_y",
+        "signal_y.setter",
+        "device_z",
+        "device_z.setter",
+        "signal_z",
+        "signal_z.setter",
     ]
 
     sync_signal_update = Signal()
@@ -208,12 +208,12 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
     @SafeSlot(popup_error=True)
     def plot(
         self,
-        x_name: str,
-        y_name: str,
-        z_name: str,
-        x_entry: None | str = None,
-        y_entry: None | str = None,
-        z_entry: None | str = None,
+        device_x: str,
+        device_y: str,
+        device_z: str,
+        signal_x: None | str = None,
+        signal_y: None | str = None,
+        signal_z: None | str = None,
         color_map: str | None = "plasma",
         label: str | None = None,
         validate_bec: bool = True,
@@ -222,12 +222,12 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         Plot the data from the device signals.
 
         Args:
-            x_name (str): The name of the x device signal.
-            y_name (str): The name of the y device signal.
-            z_name (str): The name of the z device signal.
-            x_entry (None | str): The x entry of the device signal.
-            y_entry (None | str): The y entry of the device signal.
-            z_entry (None | str): The z entry of the device signal.
+            device_x (str): The name of the x device signal.
+            device_y (str): The name of the y device signal.
+            device_z (str): The name of the z device signal.
+            signal_x (None | str): The x entry of the device signal.
+            signal_y (None | str): The y entry of the device signal.
+            signal_z (None | str): The z entry of the device signal.
             color_map (str | None): The color map of the scatter waveform.
             label (str | None): The label of the curve.
             validate_bec (bool): Whether to validate the device signals with current BEC instance.
@@ -237,9 +237,9 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         """
 
         if validate_bec:
-            x_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(x_name, x_entry)
-            y_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(y_name, y_entry)
-            z_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(z_name, z_entry)
+            signal_x = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_x, signal_x)
+            signal_y = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_y, signal_y)
+            signal_z = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_z, signal_z)
 
         if color_map is not None:
             try:
@@ -250,15 +250,15 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
                 )
 
         if label is None:
-            label = f"{z_name}-{z_entry}"
+            label = f"{device_z}-{signal_z}"
 
         config = ScatterCurveConfig(
             parent_id=self.gui_id,
             label=label,
             color_map=color_map,
-            x_device=ScatterDeviceSignal(name=x_name, entry=x_entry),
-            y_device=ScatterDeviceSignal(name=y_name, entry=y_entry),
-            z_device=ScatterDeviceSignal(name=z_name, entry=z_entry),
+            device_x=ScatterDeviceSignal(device=device_x, signal=signal_x),
+            device_y=ScatterDeviceSignal(device=device_y, signal=signal_y),
+            device_z=ScatterDeviceSignal(device=device_z, signal=signal_z),
         )
 
         # Add Curve
@@ -350,23 +350,23 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
             return "none"
 
         try:
-            x_name = self._main_curve.config.x_device.name
-            x_entry = self._main_curve.config.x_device.entry
-            y_name = self._main_curve.config.y_device.name
-            y_entry = self._main_curve.config.y_device.entry
-            z_name = self._main_curve.config.z_device.name
-            z_entry = self._main_curve.config.z_device.entry
+            device_x = self._main_curve.config.device_x.device
+            signal_x = self._main_curve.config.device_x.signal
+            device_y = self._main_curve.config.device_y.device
+            signal_y = self._main_curve.config.device_y.signal
+            device_z = self._main_curve.config.device_z.device
+            signal_z = self._main_curve.config.device_z.signal
         except AttributeError:
             return
 
         if access_key == "val":
-            x_data = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
-            y_data = data.get(y_name, {}).get(y_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
-            z_data = data.get(z_name, {}).get(z_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
+            x_data = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x, {}).get(access_key, None)
+            y_data = data.get(device_y, {}).get(signal_y, {}).get(access_key, None)
+            z_data = data.get(device_z, {}).get(signal_z, {}).get(access_key, None)
         else:
-            x_data = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry, {}).read().get("value", None)
-            y_data = data.get(y_name, {}).get(y_entry, {}).read().get("value", None)
-            z_data = data.get(z_name, {}).get(z_entry, {}).read().get("value", None)
+            x_data = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x, {}).read().get("value", None)
+            y_data = data.get(device_y, {}).get(signal_y, {}).read().get("value", None)
+            z_data = data.get(device_z, {}).get(signal_z, {}).read().get("value", None)
 
         self._main_curve.set_data(x=x_data, y=y_data, z=z_data)
 
@@ -399,14 +399,14 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
     ################################################################################
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def x_device_name(self) -> str:
+    def device_x(self) -> str:
         """Device name for the X axis."""
-        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.x_device is None:
+        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.device_x is None:
             return ""
-        return self._main_curve.config.x_device.name or ""
+        return self._main_curve.config.device_x.device or ""
 
-    @x_device_name.setter
-    def x_device_name(self, device_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_x.setter
+    def device_x(self, device_name: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the X device name.
 
@@ -419,33 +419,33 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
             try:
                 entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
                 # Update or create config
-                if self._main_curve.config.x_device is None:
-                    self._main_curve.config.x_device = ScatterDeviceSignal(
-                        name=device_name, entry=entry
+                if self._main_curve.config.device_x is None:
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_x = ScatterDeviceSignal(
+                        device=device_name, signal=entry
                     )
                 else:
-                    self._main_curve.config.x_device.name = device_name
-                    self._main_curve.config.x_device.entry = entry
-                self.property_changed.emit("x_device_name", device_name)
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_x.device = device_name
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_x.signal = entry
+                self.property_changed.emit("device_x", device_name)
                 self.update_labels()
                 self._try_auto_plot()
             except Exception:
                 pass  # Silently fail if device is not available yet
         else:
-            if self._main_curve.config.x_device is not None:
-                self._main_curve.config.x_device = None
-            self.property_changed.emit("x_device_name", "")
+            if self._main_curve.config.device_x is not None:
+                self._main_curve.config.device_x = None
+            self.property_changed.emit("device_x", "")
             self.update_labels()
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def x_device_entry(self) -> str:
+    def signal_x(self) -> str:
         """Signal entry for the X axis device."""
-        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.x_device is None:
+        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.device_x is None:
             return ""
-        return self._main_curve.config.x_device.entry or ""
+        return self._main_curve.config.device_x.signal or ""
 
-    @x_device_entry.setter
-    def x_device_entry(self, entry: str) -> None:
+    @signal_x.setter
+    def signal_x(self, entry: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the X device entry.
 
@@ -455,29 +455,29 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         if not entry:
             return
 
-        if self._main_curve.config.x_device is None:
-            logger.warning("Cannot set x_device_entry without x_device_name set first.")
+        if self._main_curve.config.device_x is None:
+            logger.warning("Cannot set signal_x without device_x set first.")
             return
 
-        device_name = self._main_curve.config.x_device.name
+        device_name = self._main_curve.config.device_x.device
         try:
-            validated_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
-            self._main_curve.config.x_device.entry = validated_entry
-            self.property_changed.emit("x_device_entry", validated_entry)
+            validated_signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
+            self._main_curve.config.device_x.signal = validated_signal
+            self.property_changed.emit("signal_x", validated_signal)
             self.update_labels()
             self._try_auto_plot()
         except Exception:
             pass  # Silently fail if validation fails
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def y_device_name(self) -> str:
+    def device_y(self) -> str:
         """Device name for the Y axis."""
-        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.y_device is None:
+        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.device_y is None:
             return ""
-        return self._main_curve.config.y_device.name or ""
+        return self._main_curve.config.device_y.device or ""
 
-    @y_device_name.setter
-    def y_device_name(self, device_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_y.setter
+    def device_y(self, device_name: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Y device name.
 
@@ -490,33 +490,33 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
             try:
                 entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
                 # Update or create config
-                if self._main_curve.config.y_device is None:
-                    self._main_curve.config.y_device = ScatterDeviceSignal(
-                        name=device_name, entry=entry
+                if self._main_curve.config.device_y is None:
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_y = ScatterDeviceSignal(
+                        device=device_name, signal=entry
                     )
                 else:
-                    self._main_curve.config.y_device.name = device_name
-                    self._main_curve.config.y_device.entry = entry
-                self.property_changed.emit("y_device_name", device_name)
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_y.device = device_name
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_y.signal = entry
+                self.property_changed.emit("device_y", device_name)
                 self.update_labels()
                 self._try_auto_plot()
             except Exception:
                 pass  # Silently fail if device is not available yet
         else:
-            if self._main_curve.config.y_device is not None:
-                self._main_curve.config.y_device = None
-            self.property_changed.emit("y_device_name", "")
+            if self._main_curve.config.device_y is not None:
+                self._main_curve.config.device_y = None
+            self.property_changed.emit("device_y", "")
             self.update_labels()
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def y_device_entry(self) -> str:
+    def signal_y(self) -> str:
         """Signal entry for the Y axis device."""
-        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.y_device is None:
+        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.device_y is None:
             return ""
-        return self._main_curve.config.y_device.entry or ""
+        return self._main_curve.config.device_y.signal or ""
 
-    @y_device_entry.setter
-    def y_device_entry(self, entry: str) -> None:
+    @signal_y.setter
+    def signal_y(self, entry: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Y device entry.
 
@@ -526,29 +526,29 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         if not entry:
             return
 
-        if self._main_curve.config.y_device is None:
-            logger.warning("Cannot set y_device_entry without y_device_name set first.")
+        if self._main_curve.config.device_y is None:
+            logger.warning("Cannot set signal_y without device_y set first.")
             return
 
-        device_name = self._main_curve.config.y_device.name
+        device_name = self._main_curve.config.device_y.device
         try:
-            validated_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
-            self._main_curve.config.y_device.entry = validated_entry
-            self.property_changed.emit("y_device_entry", validated_entry)
+            validated_signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
+            self._main_curve.config.device_y.signal = validated_signal
+            self.property_changed.emit("signal_y", validated_signal)
             self.update_labels()
             self._try_auto_plot()
         except Exception:
             pass  # Silently fail if validation fails
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def z_device_name(self) -> str:
+    def device_z(self) -> str:
         """Device name for the Z (color) axis."""
-        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.z_device is None:
+        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.device_z is None:
             return ""
-        return self._main_curve.config.z_device.name or ""
+        return self._main_curve.config.device_z.device or ""
 
-    @z_device_name.setter
-    def z_device_name(self, device_name: str) -> None:
+    @device_z.setter
+    def device_z(self, device_name: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Z device name.
 
@@ -561,33 +561,33 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
             try:
                 entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, None)
                 # Update or create config
-                if self._main_curve.config.z_device is None:
-                    self._main_curve.config.z_device = ScatterDeviceSignal(
-                        name=device_name, entry=entry
+                if self._main_curve.config.device_z is None:
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_z = ScatterDeviceSignal(
+                        device=device_name, signal=entry
                     )
                 else:
-                    self._main_curve.config.z_device.name = device_name
-                    self._main_curve.config.z_device.entry = entry
-                self.property_changed.emit("z_device_name", device_name)
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_z.device = device_name
+                    self._main_curve.config.device_z.signal = entry
+                self.property_changed.emit("device_z", device_name)
                 self.update_labels()
                 self._try_auto_plot()
             except Exception:
                 pass  # Silently fail if device is not available yet
         else:
-            if self._main_curve.config.z_device is not None:
-                self._main_curve.config.z_device = None
-            self.property_changed.emit("z_device_name", "")
+            if self._main_curve.config.device_z is not None:
+                self._main_curve.config.device_z = None
+            self.property_changed.emit("device_z", "")
             self.update_labels()
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def z_device_entry(self) -> str:
+    def signal_z(self) -> str:
         """Signal entry for the Z (color) axis device."""
-        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.z_device is None:
+        if self._main_curve is None or self._main_curve.config.device_z is None:
             return ""
-        return self._main_curve.config.z_device.entry or ""
+        return self._main_curve.config.device_z.signal or ""
 
-    @z_device_entry.setter
-    def z_device_entry(self, entry: str) -> None:
+    @signal_z.setter
+    def signal_z(self, entry: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the Z device entry.
 
@@ -597,15 +597,15 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         if not entry:
             return
 
-        if self._main_curve.config.z_device is None:
-            logger.warning("Cannot set z_device_entry without z_device_name set first.")
+        if self._main_curve.config.device_z is None:
+            logger.warning("Cannot set signal_z without device_z set first.")
             return
 
-        device_name = self._main_curve.config.z_device.name
+        device_name = self._main_curve.config.device_z.device
         try:
-            validated_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
-            self._main_curve.config.z_device.entry = validated_entry
-            self.property_changed.emit("z_device_entry", validated_entry)
+            validated_signal = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_name, entry)
+            self._main_curve.config.device_z.signal = validated_signal
+            self.property_changed.emit("signal_z", validated_signal)
             self.update_labels()
             self._try_auto_plot()
         except Exception:
@@ -615,25 +615,25 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         """
         Attempt to automatically call plot() if all three devices are set.
         """
-        has_x = self._main_curve.config.x_device is not None
-        has_y = self._main_curve.config.y_device is not None
-        has_z = self._main_curve.config.z_device is not None
+        has_x = self._main_curve.config.device_x is not None
+        has_y = self._main_curve.config.device_y is not None
+        has_z = self._main_curve.config.device_z is not None
 
         if has_x and has_y and has_z:
-            x_name = self._main_curve.config.x_device.name
-            x_entry = self._main_curve.config.x_device.entry
-            y_name = self._main_curve.config.y_device.name
-            y_entry = self._main_curve.config.y_device.entry
-            z_name = self._main_curve.config.z_device.name
-            z_entry = self._main_curve.config.z_device.entry
+            device_x = self._main_curve.config.device_x.device
+            signal_x = self._main_curve.config.device_x.signal
+            device_y = self._main_curve.config.device_y.device
+            signal_y = self._main_curve.config.device_y.signal
+            device_z = self._main_curve.config.device_z.device
+            signal_z = self._main_curve.config.device_z.signal
             try:
                 self.plot(
-                    x_name=x_name,
-                    y_name=y_name,
-                    z_name=z_name,
-                    x_entry=x_entry,
-                    y_entry=y_entry,
-                    z_entry=z_entry,
+                    device_x=device_x,
+                    device_y=device_y,
+                    device_z=device_z,
+                    signal_x=signal_x,
+                    signal_y=signal_y,
+                    signal_z=signal_z,
                     validate_bec=False,  # Don't validate - entries already validated
                 )
             except Exception as e:
@@ -650,21 +650,21 @@ class ScatterWaveform(PlotBase):
         config = self._main_curve.config
 
         # Safely get device names
-        x_device = config.x_device
-        y_device = config.y_device
+        device_x = config.device_x
+        device_y = config.device_y
 
-        x_name = x_device.name if x_device else None
-        y_name = y_device.name if y_device else None
+        device_x = device_x.device if device_x else None
+        device_y = device_y.device if device_y else None
 
-        if x_name is not None:
-            self.x_label = x_name  # type: ignore
-            x_dev = self.dev.get(x_name)
+        if device_x is not None:
+            self.x_label = device_x  # type: ignore
+            x_dev = self.dev.get(device_x)
             if x_dev and hasattr(x_dev, "egu"):
                 self.x_label_units = x_dev.egu()
 
-        if y_name is not None:
-            self.y_label = y_name  # type: ignore
-            y_dev = self.dev.get(y_name)
+        if device_y is not None:
+            self.y_label = device_y  # type: ignore
+            y_dev = self.dev.get(device_y)
             if y_dev and hasattr(y_dev, "egu"):
                 self.y_label_units = y_dev.egu()
 
@@ -756,7 +756,7 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
         self.setCentralWidget(self.main_widget)
 
         self.waveform_popup = ScatterWaveform(popups=True)
-        self.waveform_popup.plot("samx", "samy", "bpm4i")
+        self.waveform_popup.plot(device_x="samx", device_y="samy", device_z="bpm4i")
 
         self.waveform_side = ScatterWaveform(popups=False)
         self.waveform_popup.plot("samx", "samy", "bpm3a")

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/scatter_waveform/settings/scatter_curve_setting.py

@@ -58,81 +58,81 @@ class ScatterCurveSettings(SettingWidget):
         color_map = getattr(self.target_widget, "color_map", None)
 
         # Default values for device properties
-        x_name, x_entry = None, None
-        y_name, y_entry = None, None
-        z_name, z_entry = None, None
+        device_x, signal_x = None, None
+        device_y, signal_y = None, None
+        device_z, signal_z = None, None
 
         # Safely access device properties
         if hasattr(self.target_widget, "main_curve") and self.target_widget.main_curve:
             if hasattr(self.target_widget.main_curve, "config"):
                 config = self.target_widget.main_curve.config
 
-                if hasattr(config, "x_device") and config.x_device:
-                    x_name = getattr(config.x_device, "name", None)
-                    x_entry = getattr(config.x_device, "entry", None)
+                if hasattr(config, "device_x") and config.device_x:
+                    device_x = getattr(config.device_x, "device", None)
+                    signal_x = getattr(config.device_x, "signal", None)
 
-                if hasattr(config, "y_device") and config.y_device:
-                    y_name = getattr(config.y_device, "name", None)
-                    y_entry = getattr(config.y_device, "entry", None)
+                if hasattr(config, "device_y") and config.device_y:
+                    device_y = getattr(config.device_y, "device", None)
+                    signal_y = getattr(config.device_y, "signal", None)
 
-                if hasattr(config, "z_device") and config.z_device:
-                    z_name = getattr(config.z_device, "name", None)
-                    z_entry = getattr(config.z_device, "entry", None)
+                if hasattr(config, "device_z") and config.device_z:
+                    device_z = getattr(config.device_z, "device", None)
+                    signal_z = getattr(config.device_z, "signal", None)
 
         # Apply the properties to the settings widget
         if hasattr(self.ui, "color_map"):
             self.ui.color_map.colormap = color_map
 
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "x_name"):
-            self.ui.x_name.set_device(x_name)
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "x_entry") and x_entry is not None:
-            self.ui.x_entry.set_to_obj_name(x_entry)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "device_x"):
+            self.ui.device_x.set_device(device_x)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "signal_x") and signal_x is not None:
+            self.ui.signal_x.set_to_obj_name(signal_x)
 
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "y_name"):
-            self.ui.y_name.set_device(y_name)
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "y_entry") and y_entry is not None:
-            self.ui.y_entry.set_to_obj_name(y_entry)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "device_y"):
+            self.ui.device_y.set_device(device_y)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "signal_y") and signal_y is not None:
+            self.ui.signal_y.set_to_obj_name(signal_y)
 
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "z_name"):
-            self.ui.z_name.set_device(z_name)
-        if hasattr(self.ui, "z_entry") and z_entry is not None:
-            self.ui.z_entry.set_to_obj_name(z_entry)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "device_z"):
+            self.ui.device_z.set_device(device_z)
+        if hasattr(self.ui, "signal_z") and signal_z is not None:
+            self.ui.signal_z.set_to_obj_name(signal_z)
 
     @SafeSlot()
     def accept_changes(self):
         """
         Apply all properties from the settings widget to the target widget.
         """
-        x_name = self.ui.x_name.currentText()
-        x_entry = self.ui.x_entry.get_signal_name()
-        y_name = self.ui.y_name.currentText()
-        y_entry = self.ui.y_entry.get_signal_name()
-        z_name = self.ui.z_name.currentText()
-        z_entry = self.ui.z_entry.get_signal_name()
+        device_x = self.ui.device_x.currentText()
+        signal_x = self.ui.signal_x.get_signal_name()
+        device_y = self.ui.device_y.currentText()
+        signal_y = self.ui.signal_y.get_signal_name()
+        device_z = self.ui.device_z.currentText()
+        signal_z = self.ui.signal_z.get_signal_name()
         validate_bec = self.ui.validate_bec.checked
         color_map = self.ui.color_map.colormap
 
         self.target_widget.plot(
-            x_name=x_name,
-            y_name=y_name,
-            z_name=z_name,
-            x_entry=x_entry,
-            y_entry=y_entry,
-            z_entry=z_entry,
+            device_x=device_x,
+            device_y=device_y,
+            device_z=device_z,
+            signal_x=signal_x,
+            signal_y=signal_y,
+            signal_z=signal_z,
             color_map=color_map,
             validate_bec=validate_bec,
         )
 
     def cleanup(self):
-        self.ui.x_name.close()
-        self.ui.x_name.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.x_entry.close()
-        self.ui.x_entry.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.y_name.close()
-        self.ui.y_name.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.y_entry.close()
-        self.ui.y_entry.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.z_name.close()
-        self.ui.z_name.deleteLater()
-        self.ui.z_entry.close()
-        self.ui.z_entry.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.device_x.close()
+        self.ui.device_x.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.signal_x.close()
+        self.ui.signal_x.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.device_y.close()
+        self.ui.device_y.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.signal_y.close()
+        self.ui.signal_y.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.device_z.close()
+        self.ui.device_z.deleteLater()
+        self.ui.signal_z.close()
+        self.ui.signal_z.deleteLater()

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/scatter_waveform/settings/scatter_curve_settings_horizontal.ui

@@ -61,7 +61,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="0" column="1">
-         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="x_name">
+         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_x">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -71,7 +71,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="1" column="1">
-         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="x_entry">
+         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_x">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -101,7 +101,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="0" column="1">
-         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="y_name">
+         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_y">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -111,7 +111,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="1" column="1">
-         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="y_entry">
+         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_y">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -141,7 +141,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="0" column="1">
-         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="z_name">
+         <widget class="DeviceComboBox" name="device_z">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -151,7 +151,7 @@
          </widget>
         </item>
         <item row="1" column="1">
-         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="z_entry">
+         <widget class="SignalComboBox" name="signal_z">
           <property name="editable">
            <bool>true</bool>
           </property>
@@ -187,19 +187,19 @@
   </customwidget>
  </customwidgets>
  <tabstops>
-  <tabstop>x_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>y_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>z_name</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>x_entry</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>y_entry</tabstop>
-  <tabstop>z_entry</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_x</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_y</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>device_z</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_x</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_y</tabstop>
+  <tabstop>signal_z</tabstop>
  </tabstops>
  <resources/>
  <connections>
   <connection>
-   <sender>x_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_x</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>x_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_x</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -213,9 +213,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>y_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_y</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>y_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_y</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -229,9 +229,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>z_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_z</sender>
    <signal>device_reset()</signal>
-   <receiver>z_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_z</receiver>
    <slot>reset_selection()</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -245,9 +245,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>x_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_x</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>x_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_x</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -261,9 +261,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>y_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_y</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>y_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_y</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -277,9 +277,9 @@
    </hints>
   </connection>
   <connection>
-   <sender>z_name</sender>
+   <sender>device_z</sender>
    <signal>currentTextChanged(QString)</signal>
-   <receiver>z_entry</receiver>
+   <receiver>signal_z</receiver>
    <slot>set_device(QString)</slot>
    <hints>
     <hint type="sourcelabel">

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/scatter_waveform/settings/scatter_curve_settings_vertical.ui

@@ -58,7 +58,7 @@
                             </widget>
                         </item>
                         <item row="0" column="1">
-                            <widget class="DeviceLineEdit" name="x_name"/>
+                            <widget class="DeviceLineEdit" name="device_x"/>
                         </item>
                         <item row="1" column="0">
                             <widget class="QLabel" name="label_2">
@@ -68,7 +68,7 @@
                             </widget>
                         </item>
                         <item row="1" column="1">
-                            <widget class="QLineEdit" name="x_entry"/>
+                            <widget class="QLineEdit" name="signal_x"/>
                         </item>
                     </layout>
                 </widget>
@@ -87,7 +87,7 @@
                             </widget>
                         </item>
                         <item row="0" column="1">
-                            <widget class="DeviceLineEdit" name="y_name"/>
+                            <widget class="DeviceLineEdit" name="device_y"/>
                         </item>
                         <item row="1" column="0">
                             <widget class="QLabel" name="label_4">
@@ -97,7 +97,7 @@
                             </widget>
                         </item>
                         <item row="1" column="1">
-                            <widget class="QLineEdit" name="y_entry"/>
+                            <widget class="QLineEdit" name="signal_y"/>
                         </item>
                     </layout>
                 </widget>
@@ -116,7 +116,7 @@
                             </widget>
                         </item>
                         <item row="0" column="1">
-                            <widget class="DeviceLineEdit" name="z_name"/>
+                            <widget class="DeviceLineEdit" name="device_z"/>
                         </item>
                         <item row="1" column="0">
                             <widget class="QLabel" name="label_6">
@@ -126,7 +126,7 @@
                             </widget>
                         </item>
                         <item row="1" column="1">
-                            <widget class="QLineEdit" name="z_entry"/>
+                            <widget class="QLineEdit" name="signal_z"/>
                         </item>
                     </layout>
                 </widget>
@@ -153,9 +153,9 @@
     <resources/>
     <connections>
         <connection>
-            <sender>x_name</sender>
+            <sender>device_x</sender>
             <signal>textChanged(QString)</signal>
-            <receiver>x_entry</receiver>
+            <receiver>signal_x</receiver>
             <slot>clear()</slot>
             <hints>
                 <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -169,9 +169,9 @@
             </hints>
         </connection>
         <connection>
-            <sender>y_name</sender>
+            <sender>device_y</sender>
             <signal>textChanged(QString)</signal>
-            <receiver>y_entry</receiver>
+            <receiver>signal_y</receiver>
             <slot>clear()</slot>
             <hints>
                 <hint type="sourcelabel">
@@ -185,9 +185,9 @@
             </hints>
         </connection>
         <connection>
-            <sender>z_name</sender>
+            <sender>device_z</sender>
             <signal>textChanged(QString)</signal>
-            <receiver>z_entry</receiver>
+            <receiver>signal_z</receiver>
             <slot>clear()</slot>
             <hints>
                 <hint type="sourcelabel">

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/waveform/curve.py

@@ -20,8 +20,8 @@ logger = bec_logger.logger
 class DeviceSignal(BaseModel):
     """The configuration of a signal in the 1D waveform widget."""
 
-    name: str
-    entry: str
+    device: str
+    signal: str
     dap: str | list[str] | None = None
     dap_oversample: int = 1
     dap_parameters: dict | list | None = None

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/waveform/settings/curve_settings/curve_setting.py

@@ -140,7 +140,7 @@ class CurveSetting(SettingWidget):
             signal_x = self.signal_x.currentText()
             signal_data = self.signal_x.itemData(self.signal_x.currentIndex())
             if signal_x != "":
-                self.target_widget.x_entry = signal_data.get("obj_name", signal_x)
+                self.target_widget.signal_x = signal_data.get("obj_name", signal_x)
         else:
             self.target_widget.x_mode = self.mode_combo.currentText()
         self.curve_manager.send_curve_json()

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/waveform/settings/curve_settings/curve_tree.py

@@ -6,7 +6,6 @@ from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_qthemes._icon.material_icons import material_icon
 from qtpy.QtGui import QValidator
-from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
 
 
 class ScanIndexValidator(QValidator):
@@ -226,7 +225,7 @@ class CurveRow(QTreeWidgetItem):
             self.device_edit.currentTextChanged.connect(self.entry_edit.set_device)
             self.device_edit.device_reset.connect(self.entry_edit.reset_selection)
             if self.config.signal:
-                device_index = self.device_edit.findText(self.config.signal.name or "")
+                device_index = self.device_edit.findText(self.config.signal.device or "")
                 if device_index >= 0:
                     self.device_edit.setCurrentIndex(device_index)
                     # Force the entry_edit to update based on the device name
@@ -235,7 +234,7 @@ class CurveRow(QTreeWidgetItem):
                     # If the device name is not found, set the first enabled item
                     self.device_edit.setCurrentIndex(0)
 
-                if not self.entry_edit.set_to_obj_name(self.config.signal.entry):
+                if not self.entry_edit.set_to_obj_name(self.config.signal.signal):
                     # If the entry is not found, try to set it to the first enabled item
                     if not self.entry_edit.set_to_first_enabled():
                         # If no enabled item is found, set to the first item
@@ -309,15 +308,15 @@ class CurveRow(QTreeWidgetItem):
         dev_name = ""
         dev_entry = ""
         if self.config.signal:
-            dev_name = self.config.signal.name
-            dev_entry = self.config.signal.entry
+            dev_name = self.config.signal.device
+            dev_entry = self.config.signal.signal
 
         # Create a new config for the DAP row
         dap_cfg = CurveConfig(
             widget_class="Curve",
             source="dap",
             parent_label=parent_label,
-            signal=DeviceSignal(name=dev_name, entry=dev_entry),
+            signal=DeviceSignal(device=dev_name, signal=dev_entry),
         )
         new_dap = CurveRow(self.tree, parent_item=self, config=dap_cfg, device_manager=self.dev)
         # Expand device row to show new child
@@ -395,10 +394,10 @@ class CurveRow(QTreeWidgetItem):
                         device_entry = device_entry_info.get("obj_name", device_entry)
                 else:
                     device_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(
-                        name=device_name, entry=device_entry
+                        device=device_name, signal=device_entry
                     )
 
-            self.config.signal = DeviceSignal(name=device_name, entry=device_entry)
+            self.config.signal = DeviceSignal(device=device_name, signal=device_entry)
             scan_combo_text = self.scan_index_combo.currentText()
             if scan_combo_text == "live" or scan_combo_text == "":
                 self.config.scan_number = None
@@ -422,16 +421,16 @@ class CurveRow(QTreeWidgetItem):
             if self.parent_item:
                 parent_conf_dict = self.parent_item.export_data()
             parent_conf = CurveConfig(**parent_conf_dict)
-            dev_name = ""
-            dev_entry = ""
+            device = ""
+            signal = ""
             if parent_conf.signal:
-                dev_name = parent_conf.signal.name
-                dev_entry = parent_conf.signal.entry
+                device = parent_conf.signal.device
+                signal = parent_conf.signal.signal
             # Dap from the DapComboBox
             new_dap = "GaussianModel"
             if hasattr(self, "dap_combo"):
                 new_dap = self.dap_combo.fit_model_combobox.currentText()
-            self.config.signal = DeviceSignal(name=dev_name, entry=dev_entry, dap=new_dap)
+            self.config.signal = DeviceSignal(device=device, signal=signal, dap=new_dap)
             self.config.source = "dap"
             self.config.parent_label = parent_conf.label
             self.config.label = f"{parent_conf.label}-{new_dap}"
@@ -613,15 +612,12 @@ class CurveTree(BECWidget, QWidget):
                     item.config.color = new_col
                     item.config.symbol_color = new_col
 
-    def add_new_curve(self, name: str = None, entry: str = None):
+    def add_new_curve(self, device: str = None, signal: str = None):
         """Add a new device-type CurveRow with an assigned colormap color.
 
         Args:
-            name (str, optional): Device name.
-            entry (str, optional): Device entry.
-            style (str, optional): Pen style. Defaults to "solid".
-            width (int, optional): Pen width. Defaults to 4.
-            symbol_size (int, optional): Symbol size. Defaults to 7.
+            device (str, optional): Device name.
+            signal (str, optional): Device entry.
 
         Returns:
             CurveRow: The newly created top-level row.
@@ -630,7 +626,7 @@ class CurveTree(BECWidget, QWidget):
             widget_class="Curve",
             parent_id=self.waveform.gui_id,
             source="device",
-            signal=DeviceSignal(name=name or "", entry=entry or ""),
+            signal=DeviceSignal(device=device or "", signal=signal or ""),
         )
         new_row = CurveRow(self.tree, parent_item=None, config=cfg, device_manager=self.dev)
 

bec_widgets/widgets/plots/waveform/waveform.py

@@ -48,7 +48,10 @@ if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
 else:
     try:
         import lmfit  # type: ignore
-    except Exception:  # pragma: no cover
+    except Exception as e:  # pragma: no cover
+        logger.warning(
+            f"lmfit could not be imported: {e}. Custom DAP functionality will be unavailable."
+        )
         lmfit = None
 
 
@@ -82,8 +85,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         "curves",
         "x_mode",
         "x_mode.setter",
-        "x_entry",
-        "x_entry.setter",
+        "signal_x",
+        "signal_x.setter",
         "color_palette",
         "color_palette.setter",
         "skip_large_dataset_warning",
@@ -418,7 +421,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
             self.scan_history_dialog.layout.addWidget(self.scan_history_widget)
             self.scan_history_widget.scan_history_device_viewer.request_history_plot.connect(
                 lambda scan_id, device_name, signal_name: self.plot(
-                    y_name=device_name, y_entry=signal_name, scan_id=scan_id
+                    device_y=device_name, signal_y=signal_name, scan_id=scan_id
                 )
             )
             self.scan_history_dialog.finished.connect(self._scan_history_closed)
@@ -543,14 +546,14 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         self.round_plot_widget.apply_plot_widget_style()  # To keep the correct theme
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
-    def x_entry(self) -> str | None:
+    def signal_x(self) -> str | None:
         """
         The x signal name.
         """
         return self.x_axis_mode["entry"]
 
-    @x_entry.setter
-    def x_entry(self, value: str | None):
+    @signal_x.setter
+    def signal_x(self, value: str | None):
         """
         Set the x signal name.
 
@@ -560,7 +563,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         if value is None:
             return
         if self.x_axis_mode["name"] in ["auto", "index", "timestamp"]:
-            logger.warning("Cannot set x_entry when x_mode is not 'device'.")
+            logger.warning("Cannot set signal_x when x_mode is not 'device'.")
             return
         self.x_axis_mode["entry"] = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(self.x_mode, value)
         self._switch_x_axis_item(mode="device")
@@ -699,10 +702,10 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         arg1: list | np.ndarray | str | None = None,
         y: list | np.ndarray | None = None,
         x: list | np.ndarray | None = None,
-        x_name: str | None = None,
-        y_name: str | None = None,
-        x_entry: str | None = None,
-        y_entry: str | None = None,
+        device_x: str | None = None,
+        device_y: str | None = None,
+        signal_x: str | None = None,
+        signal_y: str | None = None,
         color: str | None = None,
         label: str | None = None,
         dap: str | list[str] | None = None,
@@ -715,17 +718,17 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         Plot a curve to the plot widget.
 
         Args:
-            arg1(list | np.ndarray | str | None): First argument, which can be x data, y data, or y_name.
+            arg1(list | np.ndarray | str | None): First argument, which can be x data, y data, or device_y.
             y(list | np.ndarray): Custom y data to plot.
             x(list | np.ndarray): Custom y data to plot.
-            x_name(str): Name of the x signal.
+            device_x(str): Name of the x signal.
                 - "auto": Use the best effort signal.
                 - "timestamp": Use the timestamp signal.
                 - "index": Use the index signal.
                 - Custom signal name of a device from BEC.
-            y_name(str): The name of the device for the y-axis.
-            x_entry(str): The name of the entry for the x-axis.
-            y_entry(str): The name of the entry for the y-axis.
+            device_y(str): The name of the device for the y-axis.
+            signal_x(str): The name of the entry for the x-axis.
+            signal_y(str): The name of the entry for the y-axis.
             color(str): The color of the curve.
             label(str): The label of the curve.
             dap(str | list[str]): The dap model to use for the curve. When provided, a DAP curve is
@@ -758,7 +761,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
             y_data = np.asarray(y)
 
         if isinstance(arg1, str):
-            y_name = arg1
+            device_y = arg1
         elif isinstance(arg1, list):
             if isinstance(y, list):
                 source = "custom"
@@ -779,17 +782,17 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
                 x_data = arg1[:, 0]
                 y_data = arg1[:, 1]
 
-        # If y_name is set => device data
-        if y_name is not None and x_data is None and y_data is None:
+        # If device_y is set => device data
+        if device_y is not None and x_data is None and y_data is None:
             source = "device"
             # Validate or obtain entry
-            y_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(name=y_name, entry=y_entry)
+            signal_y = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_y, signal_y)
 
-        # If user gave x_name => store in x_axis_mode, but do not set data here
-        if x_name is not None:
-            self.x_mode = x_name
-            if x_name not in ["timestamp", "index", "auto"]:
-                self.x_axis_mode["entry"] = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(x_name, x_entry)
+        # If user gave device_x => store in x_axis_mode, but do not set data here
+        if device_x is not None:
+            self.x_mode = device_x
+            if device_x not in ["timestamp", "index", "auto"]:
+                self.x_axis_mode["entry"] = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_x, signal_x)
 
         # Decide label if not provided
         if label is None:
@@ -798,7 +801,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
                     "Curve", [c.object_name for c in self.curves]
                 )
             else:
-                label = f"{y_name}-{y_entry}"
+                label = f"{device_y}-{signal_y}"
 
         # If color not provided, generate from palette
         if color is None:
@@ -818,7 +821,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
 
         # If it's device-based, attach DeviceSignal
         if source == "device":
-            config.signal = DeviceSignal(name=y_name, entry=y_entry)
+            config.signal = DeviceSignal(device=device_y, signal=signal_y)
 
         if scan_id is not None or scan_number is not None:
             config.source = "history"
@@ -873,8 +876,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
                 f"Only device, history, or custom curves support fitting."
             )
 
-        dev_name = getattr(getattr(device_curve.config, "signal", None), "name", None)
-        dev_entry = getattr(getattr(device_curve.config, "signal", None), "entry", None)
+        dev_name = getattr(getattr(device_curve.config, "signal", None), "device", None)
+        dev_entry = getattr(getattr(device_curve.config, "signal", None), "signal", None)
         if dev_name is None:
             dev_name = device_label
         if dev_entry is None:
@@ -904,8 +907,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
 
         # Attach device signal with DAP
         config.signal = DeviceSignal(
-            name=dev_name,
-            entry=dev_entry,
+            device=dev_name,
+            signal=dev_entry,
             dap=dap_name,
             dap_oversample=dap_oversample,
             dap_parameters=self._normalize_dap_parameters(dap_parameters, dap_name=dap_name),
@@ -953,7 +956,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
 
         label = config.label
         if config.source == "history":
-            label = f"{config.signal.name}-{config.signal.entry}-scan-{config.scan_number}"
+            label = f"{config.signal.device}-{config.signal.signal}-scan-{config.scan_number}"
             config.label = label
         if not label:
             # Fallback label
@@ -1029,8 +1032,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         self, curve: Curve, scan_item: ScanDataContainer
     ) -> Curve | None:
         # Check if the data are already set
-        device = curve.config.signal.name
-        entry = curve.config.signal.entry
+        device = curve.config.signal.device
+        entry = curve.config.signal.signal
 
         all_devices_used = getattr(
             getattr(scan_item, "_msg", None), "stored_data_info", None
@@ -1069,20 +1072,20 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
                 )
                 curve.setVisible(False)
                 return
-            x_entry_custom = self.x_axis_mode.get("entry")
-            if x_entry_custom is None:
-                x_entry_custom = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(
+            signal_x_custom = self.x_axis_mode.get("entry")
+            if signal_x_custom is None:
+                signal_x_custom = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(
                     self.x_axis_mode["name"], None
                 )
-            if x_entry_custom not in all_devices_used[self.x_axis_mode["name"]]:
+            if signal_x_custom not in all_devices_used[self.x_axis_mode["name"]]:
                 logger.warning(
-                    f"Custom entry '{x_entry_custom}' for device '{self.x_axis_mode['name']}' not found in scan item of history curve '{curve.name()}'; scan ID: {curve.config.scan_id}."
+                    f"Custom entry '{signal_x_custom}' for device '{self.x_axis_mode['name']}' not found in scan item of history curve '{curve.name()}'; scan ID: {curve.config.scan_id}."
                 )
                 curve.setVisible(False)
                 return
             x_shape = (
                 scan_item._msg.stored_data_info.get(self.x_axis_mode["name"])
-                .get(x_entry_custom)
+                .get(signal_x_custom)
                 .shape[0]
             )
             if x_shape != y_shape:
@@ -1092,9 +1095,9 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
                 curve.setVisible(False)
                 return
             x_device = scan_item.devices.get(self.x_axis_mode["name"])
-            x_data = x_device.get(x_entry_custom).read().get("value")
+            x_data = x_device.get(signal_x_custom).read().get("value")
             curve.config.current_x_mode = self.x_axis_mode["name"]
-            self._update_x_label_suffix(f" (custom: {self.x_axis_mode['name']}-{x_entry_custom})")
+            self._update_x_label_suffix(f" (custom: {self.x_axis_mode['name']}-{signal_x_custom})")
         elif self.x_axis_mode["name"] == "auto":
             if (
                 self._current_x_device is None
@@ -1109,24 +1112,24 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
                     curve.set_data(x=x_data, y=y_data)
                     self._update_x_label_suffix(" (auto: index)")
                     return curve
-                x_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(scan_motors[0], None)
-                if x_entry not in all_devices_used.get(scan_motors[0], {}):
+                signal_x = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(scan_motors[0], None)
+                if signal_x not in all_devices_used.get(scan_motors[0], {}):
                     logger.warning(
-                        f"Auto x entry '{x_entry}' for device '{scan_motors[0]}' not found in scan item of history curve '{curve.name()}'; scan ID: {curve.config.scan_id}."
+                        f"Auto x entry '{signal_x}' for device '{scan_motors[0]}' not found in scan item of history curve '{curve.name()}'; scan ID: {curve.config.scan_id}."
                     )
                     curve.setVisible(False)
                     return
-                if y_shape != all_devices_used.get(scan_motors[0]).get(x_entry, {}).shape[0]:
+                if y_shape != all_devices_used.get(scan_motors[0]).get(signal_x, {}).shape[0]:
                     logger.warning(
-                        f"Shape mismatch for x data '{all_devices_used.get(scan_motors[0]).get(x_entry, {}).get('shape', [0])[0]}' and y data '{y_shape}' in history curve '{curve.name()}'; scan ID: {curve.config.scan_id}."
+                        f"Shape mismatch for x data '{all_devices_used.get(scan_motors[0]).get(signal_x, {}).get('shape', [0])[0]}' and y data '{y_shape}' in history curve '{curve.name()}'; scan ID: {curve.config.scan_id}."
                     )
                     curve.setVisible(False)
                     return
-                x_data = scan_item.devices.get(scan_motors[0]).get(x_entry).read().get("value")
-                self._current_x_device = (scan_motors[0], x_entry)
-                self._update_x_label_suffix(f" (auto: {scan_motors[0]}-{x_entry})")
+                x_data = scan_item.devices.get(scan_motors[0]).get(signal_x).read().get("value")
+                self._current_x_device = (scan_motors[0], signal_x)
+                self._update_x_label_suffix(f" (auto: {scan_motors[0]}-{signal_x})")
                 curve.config.current_x_mode = "auto"
-                self._update_x_label_suffix(f" (auto: {scan_motors[0]}-{x_entry})")
+                self._update_x_label_suffix(f" (auto: {scan_motors[0]}-{signal_x})")
             else:  # Scan in auto mode was done and live scan already set the current x device
                 if self._current_x_device[0] not in all_devices_used:
                     logger.warning(
@@ -1472,8 +1475,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
             return
         data, access_key = self._fetch_scan_data_and_access()
         for curve in self._sync_curves:
-            device_name = curve.config.signal.name
-            device_entry = curve.config.signal.entry
+            device_name = curve.config.signal.device
+            device_entry = curve.config.signal.signal
             if access_key == "val":
                 device_data = data.get(device_name, {}).get(device_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
             else:
@@ -1507,8 +1510,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         data, access_key = self._fetch_scan_data_and_access()
 
         for curve in self._async_curves:
-            device_name = curve.config.signal.name
-            device_entry = curve.config.signal.entry
+            device_name = curve.config.signal.device
+            device_entry = curve.config.signal.signal
             if access_key == "val":  # live access
                 device_data = data.get(device_name, {}).get(device_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
             else:  # history access
@@ -1561,8 +1564,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         bec_async_signals = self.client.device_manager.get_bec_signals(
             ["AsyncSignal", "AsyncMultiSignal"]
         )
-        for entry_name, _, entry_data in bec_async_signals:
-            if entry_name == name and entry_data.get("obj_name") == signal:
+        for signal_name, _, entry_data in bec_async_signals:
+            if signal_name == name and entry_data.get("obj_name") == signal:
                 return True, entry_data.get("storage_name")
         return False, signal
 
@@ -1573,8 +1576,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         Args:
             curve(Curve): The curve to set up.
         """
-        name = curve.config.signal.name
-        signal = curve.config.signal.entry
+        name = curve.config.signal.device
+        signal = curve.config.signal.signal
         async_signal_found, signal = self._check_async_signal_found(name, signal)
 
         try:
@@ -1647,7 +1650,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
             x_data = None  # Reset x_data
             y_data = None  # Reset y_data
             # Get the curve data
-            async_data = msg["signals"].get(curve.config.signal.entry, None)
+            async_data = msg["signals"].get(curve.config.signal.signal, None)
             if async_data is None:
                 continue
             # y-data
@@ -1691,12 +1694,12 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
 
             # x_axis_mode is device signal
             # Only consider device signals that are async for now, fallback is index
-            x_device_entry = self.x_axis_mode["entry"]
-            async_data = msg["signals"].get(x_device_entry, None)
+            signal_x = self.x_axis_mode["entry"]
+            async_data = msg["signals"].get(signal_x, None)
             # Make sure the signal exists, otherwise fall back to index
             if async_data is None:
                 # Try to grab the data from device signals
-                data_plot_x = self._get_x_data(plot_mode, x_device_entry)
+                data_plot_x = self._get_x_data(plot_mode, signal_x)
             else:
                 data_plot_x = np.asarray(async_data["value"])
             if x_data is not None:
@@ -1704,7 +1707,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
             # Fallback incase data is not of equal length
             if len(data_plot_x) != len(data_plot_y):
                 logger.warning(
-                    f"Async data for curve {curve.name()} and x_axis {x_device_entry} is not of equal length. Falling back to 'index' plotting."
+                    f"Async data for curve {curve.name()} and x_axis {signal_x} is not of equal length. Falling back to 'index' plotting."
                 )
                 data_plot_x = np.linspace(0, len(data_plot_y) - 1, len(data_plot_y))
 
@@ -1945,8 +1948,8 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         try:
             fit_data = msg["data"][0]
             curve.setData(np.asarray(fit_data["x"]), np.asarray(fit_data["y"]))
-        except Exception:
-            logger.exception(f"Failed to plot DAP result for curve '{curve.name()}'")
+        except Exception as e:
+            logger.exception(f"Failed to plot DAP result for curve '{curve.name()}', error: {e}")
             return
 
         metadata.update({"curve_id": curve_id})
@@ -1984,18 +1987,18 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
 
         # 1 User wants custom signal
         if self.x_axis_mode["name"] not in ["timestamp", "index", "auto"]:
-            x_name = self.x_axis_mode["name"]
-            x_entry = self.x_axis_mode.get("entry", None)
-            if x_entry is None:
-                x_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(x_name, None)
+            device_x = self.x_axis_mode["name"]
+            signal_x = self.x_axis_mode.get("entry", None)
+            if signal_x is None:
+                signal_x = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_x, None)
             # if the motor was not scanned, an empty list is returned and curves are not updated
             if access_key == "val":  # live data
-                x_data = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry, {}).get(access_key, [0])
+                x_data = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x, {}).get(access_key, [0])
             else:  # history data
-                entry_obj = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry)
+                entry_obj = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x)
                 x_data = entry_obj.read()["value"] if entry_obj else [0]
-            new_suffix = f" (custom: {x_name}-{x_entry})"
-            self._current_x_device = (x_name, x_entry)
+            new_suffix = f" (custom: {device_x}-{signal_x})"
+            self._current_x_device = (device_x, signal_x)
 
         # 2 User wants timestamp
         if self.x_axis_mode["name"] == "timestamp":
@@ -2039,15 +2042,15 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
                     x_data = None
                     new_suffix = " (auto: index)"
                 else:
-                    x_name = scan_report_devices[0]
-                    x_entry = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(x_name, None)
+                    device_x = scan_report_devices[0]
+                    signal_x = self.entry_validator.validate_signal(device_x, None)
                     if access_key == "val":
-                        x_data = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry, {}).get(access_key, None)
+                        x_data = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x, {}).get(access_key, None)
                     else:
-                        entry_obj = data.get(x_name, {}).get(x_entry)
+                        entry_obj = data.get(device_x, {}).get(signal_x)
                         x_data = entry_obj.read()["value"] if entry_obj else None
-                    new_suffix = f" (auto: {x_name}-{x_entry})"
-                self._current_x_device = (x_name, x_entry)
+                    new_suffix = f" (auto: {device_x}-{signal_x})"
+                self._current_x_device = (device_x, signal_x)
         self._update_x_label_suffix(new_suffix)
         return x_data
 
@@ -2125,7 +2128,7 @@ class Waveform(PlotBase):
         for curve in self.curves:
             if curve.config.source != "device":
                 continue
-            dev_name = curve.config.signal.name
+            dev_name = curve.config.signal.device
             if dev_name in readout_priority_async:
                 self._async_curves.append(curve)
                 if hasattr(self.scan_item, "live_data"):
@@ -2512,12 +2515,12 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
             dap_oversample=5,
         )
 
-        # 3) lmfit-style dict: any subset of lmfit.Parameter fields.
-        #    Here `center` is not fixed (vary=True) but its initial value is set.
+        # 3) Partial parameter override: this should still trigger guessing on the server
+        #    because not all Gaussian parameters are explicitly specified.
         self.custom_waveform.plot(
             x=x,
             y=y,
-            label="custom-gaussian-override-dict",
+            label="custom-gaussian-partial-guess",
             dap="GaussianModel",
             dap_parameters={
                 "center": {"value": 1.2, "vary": True},
@@ -2525,7 +2528,7 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
             },
         )
 
-        # 4) Passing a real `lmfit.Parameters` object (optional: requires lmfit on the client).
+        # 4) Complete parameter override: this should skip guessing on the server.
         if lmfit is not None:
             params_gauss = lmfit.models.GaussianModel().make_params()
             params_gauss["amplitude"].set(value=amplitude, vary=False)
@@ -2534,7 +2537,7 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
             self.custom_waveform.plot(
                 x=x,
                 y=y,
-                label="custom-gaussian-fixed-params",
+                label="custom-gaussian-complete-no-guess",
                 dap="GaussianModel",
                 dap_parameters=params_gauss,
             )
@@ -2554,10 +2557,11 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
             + rng_spec.normal(loc=0, scale=0.06, size=x_spec.size)
         )
 
+        # 5) Composite model with partial overrides only: this should still trigger guessing.
         self.custom_waveform.plot(
             x=x_spec,
             y=y_spec,
-            label="custom-gaussian-spectrum-fit",
+            label="custom-gaussian-spectrum-partial-guess",
             dap=["GaussianModel", "GaussianModel", "GaussianModel"],
             dap_parameters=[
                 {"center": {"value": centers[0], "vary": False}},
@@ -2566,6 +2570,31 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
             ],
         )
 
+        # 6) Composite model with all component parameters specified: this should skip guessing.
+        self.custom_waveform.plot(
+            x=x_spec,
+            y=y_spec,
+            label="custom-gaussian-spectrum-complete-no-guess",
+            dap=["GaussianModel", "GaussianModel", "GaussianModel"],
+            dap_parameters=[
+                {
+                    "amplitude": {"value": amplitudes[0], "vary": False},
+                    "center": {"value": centers[0], "vary": False},
+                    "sigma": {"value": sigmas[0], "vary": False, "min": 0.0},
+                },
+                {
+                    "amplitude": {"value": amplitudes[1], "vary": False},
+                    "center": {"value": centers[1], "vary": False},
+                    "sigma": {"value": sigmas[1], "vary": False, "min": 0.0},
+                },
+                {
+                    "amplitude": {"value": amplitudes[2], "vary": False},
+                    "center": {"value": centers[2], "vary": False},
+                    "sigma": {"value": sigmas[2], "vary": False, "min": 0.0},
+                },
+            ],
+        )
+
     def _populate_sine_curve_demo(self):
         """
         Showcase how lmfit's base SineModel can struggle with a drifting baseline.
@@ -2590,18 +2619,6 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
             label="custom-sine-composite",
             dap=["SineModel", "LinearModel"],
             dap_oversample=4,
-            # TODO have to guess correctly units for LMFit SineModel
-            # dap_parameters={
-            #     "SineModel": {
-            #         "amplitude": {"value": amplitude * 0.9, "vary": True},
-            #         "frequency": {"value": 2 * np.pi * frequency * 1.05, "vary": True},
-            #         "shift": {"value": 0.0, "vary": True},
-            #     },
-            #     "LinearModel": {
-            #         "intercept": {"value": offset, "vary": True},
-            #         "slope": {"value": slope, "vary": True},
-            #     },
-            # },
         )
 
         if lmfit is None:
@@ -2610,7 +2627,8 @@ class DemoApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
 
         return
 
-    def _log_sine_dap_params(self, params: dict, metadata: dict):
+    @staticmethod
+    def _log_sine_dap_params(params: dict, metadata: dict):
         curve_id = metadata.get("curve_id")
         if curve_id not in {
             "custom-sine-data-SineModel",

bec_widgets/widgets/progress/ring_progress_bar/ring_progress_settings_cards.py

@@ -44,14 +44,12 @@ class RingCardWidget(QFrame):
         self.setObjectName("RingCardWidget")
 
         bg = self._get_theme_color("BORDER")
-        self.setStyleSheet(
-            f"""
+        self.setStyleSheet(f"""
             #RingCardWidget {{
                 border: 1px solid {bg.name() if bg else '#CCCCCC'};
                 border-radius: 4px;
             }}
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
         layout.setContentsMargins(8, 8, 8, 8)

bec_widgets/widgets/services/bec_queue/bec_queue.py

@@ -1,5 +1,7 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
+import json
+
 from bec_lib import messages
 from bec_lib.endpoints import MessageEndpoints
 from bec_qthemes import material_icon
@@ -59,8 +61,10 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
         # Set up the table
         self.table = QTableWidget(self)
         # self.layout.addWidget(self.table)
-        self.table.setColumnCount(4)
-        self.table.setHorizontalHeaderLabels(["Scan Number", "Type", "Status", "Cancel"])
+        self.table.setColumnCount(5)
+        self.table.setHorizontalHeaderLabels(
+            ["Scan Number", "Scan Name", "Type", "Status", "Cancel"]
+        )
 
         header = self.table.horizontalHeader()
         header.setSectionResizeMode(QHeaderView.Stretch)
@@ -169,15 +173,23 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
             blocks = item.request_blocks
             scan_types = []
             scan_numbers = []
+            scan_names = []
             scan_ids = []
+            user_metadatas = []
             status = item.status
             for request_block in blocks:
                 scan_type = request_block.msg.scan_type
+                user_metadata = request_block.msg.metadata.get("user_metadata", {})
+                scan_name = user_metadata.get("scan_name", scan_type)
                 if scan_type:
                     scan_types.append(scan_type)
                 scan_number = request_block.scan_number
                 if scan_number:
                     scan_numbers.append(str(scan_number))
+                if scan_name:
+                    scan_names.append(scan_name)
+                if user_metadata:
+                    user_metadatas.append(user_metadata)
                 scan_id = request_block.scan_id
                 if scan_id:
                     scan_ids.append(scan_id)
@@ -185,9 +197,18 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
                 scan_types = ", ".join(scan_types)
             if scan_numbers:
                 scan_numbers = ", ".join(scan_numbers)
+            if scan_names:
+                scan_names = ", ".join(scan_names)
+            # Pretty print user metadata as tooltip
+            tooltip = ""
+            if user_metadatas:
+                if len(user_metadatas) == 1:
+                    tooltip = json.dumps(user_metadatas[0], indent=2)
+                else:
+                    tooltip = json.dumps(user_metadatas, indent=2)
             if scan_ids:
                 scan_ids = ", ".join(scan_ids)
-            self.set_row(index, scan_numbers, scan_types, status, scan_ids)
+            self.set_row(index, scan_numbers, scan_names, scan_types, status, scan_ids, tooltip)
         busy = (
             False
             if all(item.status in ("STOPPED", "COMPLETED", "IDLE") for item in queue_info)
@@ -196,13 +217,13 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
         self.set_global_state("warning" if busy else "default")
         self.queue_busy.emit(busy)
 
-    def format_item(self, content: str, status=False) -> QTableWidgetItem:
+    def format_item(self, content: str, status=False, tooltip: str = "") -> QTableWidgetItem:
         """
         Format the content of the table item.
 
         Args:
             content (str): The content to be formatted.
-
+            tooltip (str): Optional tooltip to display.
         Returns:
             QTableWidgetItem: The formatted item.
         """
@@ -210,7 +231,8 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
             content = ""
         item = QTableWidgetItem(content)
         item.setTextAlignment(Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignHCenter | Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignVCenter)
-        # item.setFlags(item.flags() & ~Qt.ItemFlag.ItemIsEditable)
+        if tooltip:
+            item.setToolTip(tooltip)
 
         if status:
             try:
@@ -220,23 +242,36 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
                 return item
         return item
 
-    def set_row(self, index: int, scan_number: str, scan_type: str, status: str, scan_id: str):
+    def set_row(
+        self,
+        index: int,
+        scan_number: str,
+        scan_name: str,
+        scan_type: str,
+        status: str,
+        scan_id: str,
+        tooltip: str = "",
+    ):
         """
         Set the row of the table.
 
         Args:
             index (int): The index of the row.
             scan_number (str): The scan number.
+            scan_name (str): The scan name.
             scan_type (str): The scan type.
             status (str): The status.
+            scan_id (str): The scan id.
+            tooltip (str): Optional tooltip to display (pretty-printed user metadata).
         """
         abort_button = self._create_abort_button(scan_id)
         abort_button.button.clicked.connect(self.delete_selected_row)
 
-        self.table.setItem(index, 0, self.format_item(scan_number))
-        self.table.setItem(index, 1, self.format_item(scan_type))
-        self.table.setItem(index, 2, self.format_item(status, status=True))
-        self.table.setCellWidget(index, 3, abort_button)
+        self.table.setItem(index, 0, self.format_item(scan_number, tooltip=tooltip))
+        self.table.setItem(index, 1, self.format_item(scan_name, tooltip=tooltip))
+        self.table.setItem(index, 2, self.format_item(scan_type, tooltip=tooltip))
+        self.table.setItem(index, 3, self.format_item(status, status=True, tooltip=tooltip))
+        self.table.setCellWidget(index, 4, abort_button)
 
     def _create_abort_button(self, scan_id: str) -> AbortButton:
         """
@@ -254,14 +289,12 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
         abort_button.button.setIcon(
             material_icon("cancel", color="#cc181e", filled=True, convert_to_pixmap=False)
         )
-        abort_button.setStyleSheet(
-            """
+        abort_button.setStyleSheet("""
             QPushButton {
                 background-color: transparent;
                 border: none;
             }
-            """
-        )
+            """)
 
         return abort_button
 
@@ -279,7 +312,7 @@ class BECQueue(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
         """
 
         self.table.setRowCount(1)
-        self.set_row(0, "", "", "", "")
+        self.set_row(0, "", "", "", "", "")
 
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover

bec_widgets/widgets/services/bec_status_box/bec_status_box.py

@@ -9,6 +9,7 @@ from dataclasses import dataclass
 from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
 
 from bec_lib.utils.import_utils import lazy_import_from
+from pydantic import BaseModel
 from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, QTimer, Signal, Slot
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QHBoxLayout, QTreeWidget, QTreeWidgetItem
 
@@ -18,9 +19,10 @@ from bec_widgets.widgets.services.bec_status_box.status_item import StatusItem
 
 if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
     from bec_lib.client import BECClient
-
-# TODO : Put normal imports back when Pydantic gets faster
-BECStatus = lazy_import_from("bec_lib.messages", ("BECStatus",))
+    from bec_lib.messages import BECStatus, ServiceMetricMessage, StatusMessage
+else:
+    # TODO : Put normal imports back when Pydantic gets faster
+    BECStatus = lazy_import_from("bec_lib.messages", ("BECStatus",))
 
 
 @dataclass
@@ -200,7 +202,11 @@ class BECStatusBox(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
         self.status_container[service_name].update({"info": service_info_item})
 
     @Slot(dict, dict)
-    def update_service_status(self, services_info: dict, services_metric: dict) -> None:
+    def update_service_status(
+        self,
+        services_info: dict[str, StatusMessage],
+        services_metric: dict[str, ServiceMetricMessage],
+    ) -> None:
         """Callback function services_metric from BECServiceStatusMixin.
         It updates the status of all services.
 
@@ -209,6 +215,9 @@ class BECStatusBox(BECWidget, CompactPopupWidget):
             services_metric (dict): A dictionary containing the service metrics for all running BEC services.
         """
         checked = [self.box_name]
+        # FIXME: We simply replace the pydantic message with dict for now until we refactor the widget
+        for val in services_info.values():
+            val.info = val.info.model_dump() if isinstance(val.info, BaseModel) else val.info
         services_info = self.update_core_services(services_info, services_metric)
         checked.extend(self.CORE_SERVICES)
 

bec_widgets/widgets/services/bec_status_box/status_item.py

@@ -141,7 +141,11 @@ class StatusItem(QWidget):
         metrics_text = (
             f"<b>SERVICE:</b> {self.config.service_name}<br><b>STATUS:</b> {self.config.status}<br>"
         )
-        metrics_text += f"<b>BEC_LIB VERSION:</b> {self.config.info['version']}<br>"
+        if "version" in self.config.info:
+            metrics_text += f"<b>BEC_LIB VERSION:</b> {self.config.info['version']}<br>"
+        if "versions" in self.config.info:
+            for component, version in self.config.info["versions"].items():
+                metrics_text += f"<b>{component.upper()} VERSION:</b> {version}<br>"
         if self.config.metrics:
             for key, value in self.config.metrics.items():
                 if key == "create_time":

bec_widgets/widgets/utility/ide_explorer/ide_explorer.py

@@ -227,13 +227,11 @@ class IDEExplorer(BECWidget, QWidget):
         try:
             # Create the file with a basic template
             with open(file_path, "w", encoding="utf-8") as f:
-                f.write(
-                    f"""
+                f.write(f"""
 \"\"\"
 {filename} - Created at {datetime.datetime.now().strftime('%Y-%m-%d %H:%M:%S')}
 \"\"\"
-"""
-                )
+""")
 
         except Exception as e:
             # Show error if file creation failed
@@ -281,8 +279,7 @@ class IDEExplorer(BECWidget, QWidget):
         try:
             # Create the file with a macro function template
             with open(file_path, "w", encoding="utf-8") as f:
-                f.write(
-                    f'''"""
+                f.write(f'''"""
 {function_name} macro - Created at {datetime.datetime.now().strftime('%Y-%m-%d %H:%M:%S')}
 """
 
@@ -296,8 +293,7 @@ def {function_name}():
     print("Executing macro: {function_name}")
     # TODO: Add your macro code here
     pass
-'''
-                )
+''')
 
             # Refresh the macro tree to show the new function
             macro_dir_section.content_widget.refresh()

bec_widgets/widgets/utility/toggle/toggle.py

@@ -4,6 +4,8 @@ from qtpy.QtCore import Property, QEasingCurve, QPointF, QPropertyAnimation, Qt,
 from qtpy.QtGui import QColor, QPainter
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication, QWidget
 
+from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeConnect, SafeSlot
+
 
 class ToggleSwitch(QWidget):
     """
@@ -20,10 +22,10 @@ class ToggleSwitch(QWidget):
         self.setFixedSize(40, 21)
 
         self._thumb_pos = QPointF(3, 2)  # Use QPointF for the thumb position
-        self._active_track_color = QColor(33, 150, 243)
-        self._active_thumb_color = QColor(255, 255, 255)
-        self._inactive_track_color = QColor(200, 200, 200)
-        self._inactive_thumb_color = QColor(255, 255, 255)
+        theme = getattr(QApplication.instance(), "theme", None)
+        if theme:
+            SafeConnect(self, theme.theme_changed, self._update_theme_colors)
+        self._update_theme_colors()
 
         self._checked = checked
         self._track_color = self.inactive_track_color
@@ -34,6 +36,16 @@ class ToggleSwitch(QWidget):
         self._animation.setEasingCurve(QEasingCurve.Type.OutBack)
         self.setProperty("checked", checked)
 
+    @SafeSlot(str)
+    def _update_theme_colors(self, _theme: str | None = None):
+        theme = getattr(QApplication.instance(), "theme", None)
+        colors = theme.colors if theme else {}
+
+        self._active_track_color = colors.get("PRIMARY", QColor(33, 150, 243))
+        self._active_thumb_color = colors.get("ON_PRIMARY", QColor(255, 255, 255))
+        self._inactive_track_color = colors.get("SEPARATOR", QColor(200, 200, 200))
+        self._inactive_thumb_color = colors.get("ON_PRIMARY", QColor(255, 255, 255))
+
     @Property(bool)
     def checked(self):
         """
@@ -155,7 +167,20 @@ class ToggleSwitch(QWidget):
 
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    from qtpy.QtWidgets import QHBoxLayout, QVBoxLayout, QWidget
+
+    from bec_widgets.utils.colors import apply_theme
+    from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.visual.dark_mode_button.dark_mode_button import DarkModeButton
+
     app = QApplication(sys.argv)
-    window = ToggleSwitch()
+    apply_theme("dark")
+    widget = QWidget()
+    layout = QHBoxLayout(widget)
+    toggle = ToggleSwitch()
+    dark_mode_btn = DarkModeButton()
+    layout.addWidget(toggle)
+    layout.addWidget(dark_mode_btn)
+    window = QWidget()
+    window.setLayout(layout)
     window.show()
     sys.exit(app.exec())

bec_widgets/widgets/utility/visual/dark_mode_button/dark_mode_button.py

@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ class DarkModeButton(BECWidget, QWidget):
 
     ICON_NAME = "dark_mode"
     PLUGIN = True
-    RPC = True
+    RPC = False
 
     def __init__(
         self,

bec_widgets/widgets/utility/widget_finder/widget_finder.py

@@ -1,11 +1,10 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
 from bec_qthemes import material_icon
-from qtpy.QtCore import QPropertyAnimation, QRect, QSequentialAnimationGroup, Qt, QTimer
+from qtpy.QtCore import Qt, QTimer
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QApplication,
     QComboBox,
-    QFrame,
     QGridLayout,
     QGroupBox,
     QPushButton,
@@ -16,6 +15,7 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
 )
 
 from bec_widgets import SafeProperty
+from bec_widgets.utils.widget_highlighter import WidgetHighlighter
 from bec_widgets.utils.widget_io import WidgetIO
 from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindowNoRPC
 from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.image.image import Image
@@ -49,22 +49,11 @@ class WidgetFinderComboBox(QComboBox):
         self.refresh_button.setStyleSheet("QToolButton { border: none; padding: 0px; }")
         self.refresh_button.clicked.connect(self.refresh_list)
 
-        # Purple Highlighter
-        self.highlighter = None
+        self.highlighter = WidgetHighlighter()
 
         # refresh items - delay to fetch widgets after UI is ready in next event loop
         QTimer.singleShot(0, self.refresh_list)
 
-    def _init_highlighter(self):
-        """
-        Initialize the highlighter frame that will be used to highlight the inspected widget.
-        """
-        self.highlighter = QFrame(self, Qt.Tool | Qt.FramelessWindowHint | Qt.WindowStaysOnTopHint)
-        self.highlighter.setAttribute(Qt.WA_TransparentForMouseEvents)
-        self.highlighter.setStyleSheet(
-            "border: 2px solid #FF00FF; border-radius: 6px; background: transparent;"
-        )
-
     def resizeEvent(self, event):
         super().resizeEvent(event)
         btn_size = 16
@@ -110,33 +99,7 @@ class WidgetFinderComboBox(QComboBox):
         target = self.currentData()
         if not target:
             return
-        # ensure highlighter exists, avoid calling methods on deleted C++ object
-        if not getattr(self, "highlighter", None):
-            self._init_highlighter()
-        else:
-            self.highlighter.hide()
-        # draw new
-        geom = target.frameGeometry()
-        pos = target.mapToGlobal(target.rect().topLeft())
-        self.highlighter.setGeometry(pos.x(), pos.y(), geom.width(), geom.height())
-        self.highlighter.show()
-        # Pulse and fade animation to draw attention
-        start_rect = QRect(pos.x() - 5, pos.y() - 5, geom.width() + 10, geom.height() + 10)
-        pulse = QPropertyAnimation(self.highlighter, b"geometry")
-        pulse.setDuration(300)
-        pulse.setStartValue(start_rect)
-        pulse.setEndValue(QRect(pos.x(), pos.y(), geom.width(), geom.height()))
-
-        fade = QPropertyAnimation(self.highlighter, b"windowOpacity")
-        fade.setDuration(2000)
-        fade.setStartValue(1.0)
-        fade.setEndValue(0.0)
-        fade.finished.connect(self.highlighter.hide)
-
-        group = QSequentialAnimationGroup(self)
-        group.addAnimation(pulse)
-        group.addAnimation(fade)
-        group.start()
+        self.highlighter.highlight(target)
 
     @SafeProperty(str)
     def widget_class_name(self) -> str:
@@ -167,9 +130,7 @@ class WidgetFinderComboBox(QComboBox):
         Clean up the highlighter frame when the combobox is deleted.
         """
         if self.highlighter:
-            self.highlighter.close()
-            self.highlighter.deleteLater()
-            self.highlighter = None
+            self.highlighter.cleanup()
 
     def closeEvent(self, event):
         """

bec_widgets/widgets/utility/widget_hierarchy_tree/widget_hierarchy_tree.py

@@ -0,0 +1,242 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import shiboken6
+from bec_lib import bec_logger
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
+from qtpy.QtCore import Qt
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QApplication,
+    QCheckBox,
+    QComboBox,
+    QDialog,
+    QDialogButtonBox,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QHeaderView,
+    QToolButton,
+    QTreeWidget,
+    QTreeWidgetItem,
+    QVBoxLayout,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
+from bec_widgets.utils.widget_highlighter import WidgetHighlighter
+from bec_widgets.utils.widget_io import WidgetHierarchy
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+class WidgetHierarchyDialog(QDialog):
+    """Popup dialog listing all widgets currently alive in the QApplication."""
+
+    def __init__(self, root_widget: QWidget | None = None, parent: QWidget | None = None):
+        super().__init__(parent)
+        self.root_widget = root_widget
+        self.setWindowTitle("Widget Hierarchy")
+        self.resize(520, 640)
+
+        layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
+        controls = QHBoxLayout()
+        self._only_bec_checkbox = QCheckBox("Show only BECConnector widgets", self)
+        controls.addWidget(self._only_bec_checkbox)
+        self._visibility_filter = QComboBox(self)
+        self._visibility_filter.addItem("All widgets", "all")
+        self._visibility_filter.addItem("Visible only", "visible")
+        self._visibility_filter.addItem("Hidden only", "hidden")
+        controls.addWidget(self._visibility_filter)
+        self._refresh_button = QToolButton(self)
+        self._refresh_button.setText("Refresh")
+        self._refresh_button.setCursor(Qt.CursorShape.PointingHandCursor)
+        self._refresh_button.setAutoRaise(True)
+        self._refresh_button.setToolTip("Reload widget tree")
+        self._refresh_button.clicked.connect(self._refresh_tree)
+        controls.addWidget(self._refresh_button)
+        controls.addStretch()
+        layout.addLayout(controls)
+
+        self._tree = QTreeWidget(self)
+        self._tree.setAlternatingRowColors(True)
+        self._tree.setColumnCount(4)
+        self._tree.setHeaderLabels(["Widget", "GUI ID", "Visible", "Find"])
+        header = self._tree.header()
+        header.setStretchLastSection(False)
+        header.setSectionResizeMode(0, QHeaderView.ResizeMode.Interactive)
+        self._tree.setColumnWidth(0, 260)
+        header.setSectionResizeMode(1, QHeaderView.ResizeMode.Stretch)
+        self._tree.setColumnWidth(1, 160)
+        header.setSectionResizeMode(2, QHeaderView.ResizeMode.Fixed)
+        self._tree.setColumnWidth(2, 80)
+        header.setSectionResizeMode(3, QHeaderView.ResizeMode.Fixed)
+        self._tree.setColumnWidth(3, 40)
+        header.setSectionsMovable(True)
+        layout.addWidget(self._tree)
+
+        button_box = QDialogButtonBox(QDialogButtonBox.StandardButton.Close, parent=self)
+        button_box.rejected.connect(self.reject)
+        layout.addWidget(button_box)
+
+        self._only_bec_checkbox.toggled.connect(self._refresh_tree)
+        self._visibility_filter.currentIndexChanged.connect(self._refresh_tree)
+        self._highlighter = WidgetHighlighter()
+        self._refresh_tree()
+
+    def refresh(self) -> None:
+        self._refresh_tree()
+
+    def closeEvent(self, event):
+        if self._highlighter is not None:
+            self._highlighter.cleanup()
+        super().closeEvent(event)
+
+    def _refresh_tree(self) -> None:
+        self._tree.clear()
+        only_bec = self._only_bec_checkbox.isChecked()
+        roots = self._collect_root_widgets()
+        widget_items: dict[QWidget, QTreeWidgetItem] = {}
+        seen: set[int] = set()
+        for root in roots:
+            for node in WidgetHierarchy.iter_widget_tree(root):
+                widget = node.widget
+                widget_id = id(widget)
+                if widget_id in seen:
+                    continue
+                seen.add(widget_id)
+
+                if self._is_dialog_ancestor(widget):
+                    continue
+
+                if only_bec and not isinstance(widget, BECConnector):
+                    continue
+
+                parent_widget = (
+                    WidgetHierarchy.get_becwidget_ancestor(widget) if only_bec else node.parent
+                )
+                parent_item = widget_items.get(parent_widget)
+                item = self._create_tree_item(widget)
+                if parent_item is None:
+                    self._tree.addTopLevelItem(item)
+                else:
+                    parent_item.addChild(item)
+                self._add_highlight_button(item, widget)
+                widget_items[widget] = item
+        self._tree.expandAll()
+        self._tree.resizeColumnToContents(0)
+        self._tree.resizeColumnToContents(1)
+        self._filter_tree_by_visibility()
+
+    def _collect_root_widgets(self) -> list[QWidget]:
+        if self.root_widget and shiboken6.isValid(self.root_widget):
+            return [self.root_widget]
+        app = QApplication.instance()
+        if app is None:
+            return []
+        roots: list[QWidget] = []
+        seen: set[int] = set()
+        for widget in app.allWidgets():
+            if not shiboken6.isValid(widget):
+                continue
+            parent = widget.parent()
+            if parent is not None and shiboken6.isValid(parent):
+                continue
+            key = id(widget)
+            if key in seen:
+                continue
+            seen.add(key)
+            roots.append(widget)
+        return roots
+
+    def _create_tree_item(self, widget: QWidget) -> QTreeWidgetItem:
+        labels = [
+            self._format_widget_label(widget),
+            self._get_gui_id(widget),
+            self._visible_label(widget),
+            "",
+        ]
+        item = QTreeWidgetItem(labels)
+        item.setData(0, Qt.ItemDataRole.UserRole, widget)
+        item.setTextAlignment(2, Qt.AlignmentFlag.AlignCenter)
+        return item
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _format_widget_label(widget: QWidget) -> str:
+        object_name = widget.objectName() or "<unnamed>"
+        return f"{widget.__class__.__name__} ({object_name})"
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _get_gui_id(widget: QWidget) -> str:
+        gui_id = getattr(widget, "gui_id", None)
+        return str(gui_id) if gui_id else ""
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _visible_label(widget: QWidget) -> str:
+        try:
+            return "Yes" if widget.isVisible() else "No"
+        except Exception as e:
+            logger.error(f"Error checking visibility for widget {widget}: {e}")
+            return "Unknown"
+
+    def _add_highlight_button(self, item: QTreeWidgetItem, widget: QWidget) -> None:
+        button = QToolButton(self._tree)
+        icon = material_icon("filter_center_focus", convert_to_pixmap=False)
+        button.setIcon(icon)
+        button.setEnabled(self._can_highlight(widget))
+        button.clicked.connect(lambda _, w=widget: self._highlight_widget(w))
+        self._tree.setItemWidget(item, 3, button)
+
+    def _highlight_widget(self, widget: QWidget | None) -> None:
+        if not self._can_highlight(widget):
+            return
+        self._highlighter.highlight(widget)
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _can_highlight(widget: QWidget | None) -> bool:
+        if widget is None or not shiboken6.isValid(widget):
+            return False
+        try:
+            return widget.isVisible()
+        except Exception:
+            return False
+
+    def _filter_tree_by_visibility(self) -> None:
+        mode = self._visibility_filter.currentData()
+        if mode in (None, "all"):
+            return
+        for index in reversed(range(self._tree.topLevelItemCount())):
+            item = self._tree.topLevelItem(index)
+            if not self._filter_item_by_visibility(item, mode):
+                self._tree.takeTopLevelItem(index)
+
+    def _filter_item_by_visibility(self, item: QTreeWidgetItem, mode: str) -> bool:
+        has_match = self._matches_visibility_filter(item, mode)
+        for idx in reversed(range(item.childCount())):
+            child_item = item.child(idx)
+            if not self._filter_item_by_visibility(child_item, mode):
+                item.removeChild(child_item)
+            else:
+                has_match = True
+        return has_match
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _matches_visibility_filter(item: QTreeWidgetItem, mode: str) -> bool:
+        if mode == "all":
+            return True
+        widget = item.data(0, Qt.ItemDataRole.UserRole)
+        if widget is None or not shiboken6.isValid(widget):
+            return False
+        try:
+            visible = widget.isVisible()
+        except Exception:
+            return False
+        if mode == "visible":
+            return visible
+        if mode == "hidden":
+            return not visible
+        return True
+
+    def _is_dialog_ancestor(self, widget: QWidget | None) -> bool:
+        current = widget
+        while current is not None and shiboken6.isValid(current):
+            if current is self:
+                return True
+            current = current.parentWidget()
+        return False

docs/user/customisation.md

@@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ bec_figure = BECFigure(gui_id="my_gui_app_id")
 window.setCentralWidget(bec_figure)
 
 # prepare to plot samx motor vs bpm4i value
-bec_figure.plot(x_name="samx", y_name="bpm4i")
+bec_figure.plot(device_x="samx", device_y="bpm4i")
 ```
 
 In the example just above, the resulting application will show a plot of samx
@@ -96,7 +96,7 @@ window = QMainWindow()
 bec_figure = BECFigure(parent=window, gui_id="my_gui_app_id")
 window.setCentralWidget(bec_figure)
 
-bec_figure.plot(x_name="samx", y_name="bpm4i")
+bec_figure.plot(device_x="samx", device_y="bpm4i")
 
 # ensuring proper cleanup
 def final_cleanup():

docs/user/getting_started/quick_start.md

@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ For the introduction given here, we will focus on the plotting widgets of BECWid
 
 ```python
 plt = gui.new().new().new(gui.available_widgets.Waveform)
-plt.plot(x_name='samx', y_name='bpm4i')
+plt.plot(device_x='samx', device_y='bpm4i')
 ```
 Here, we create a new plot with a subscription to the devices `samx` and `bpm4i` and assign the plot to the object `plt`. We can now use this object to further customize the plot, e.g. changing the title (`title`), axis labels (`x_label`) 
 <!-- or limits (`x_lim`).  -->
@@ -112,7 +112,7 @@ Let's assume BEC was just started and the `gui` object is available in the clien
 ```python
 dock_area = gui.new()
 plt = dock_area.new().new(gui.available_widgets.Waveform)
-plt.plot(x_name='samx', y_name='bpm4i')
+plt.plot(device_x='samx', device_y='bpm4i')
 plt.curves[0].set_color(color="white")
 plt.title = '1D Waveform'
 ```

docs/user/widgets/heatmap/heatmap_widget.md

@@ -47,9 +47,9 @@ heatmap_widget = dock_area.new().new(gui.available_widgets.Heatmap)
 
 # Plot a heatmap with x and y motor positions and z detector signal
 heatmap_widget.plot(
-    x_name='samx',  # X-axis motor
-    y_name='samy',  # Y-axis motor  
-    z_name='bpm4i', # Z-axis detector signal
+    device_x='samx',  # X-axis motor
+    device_y='samy',  # Y-axis motor  
+    device_z='bpm4i', # Z-axis detector signal
     color_map='plasma'
 )
 heatmap_widget.title = "Grid Scan - Sample Position vs BPM Intensity"
@@ -66,12 +66,12 @@ heatmap_widget = dock_area.new().new(gui.available_widgets.Heatmap)
 
 # Plot heatmap with specific data entries
 heatmap_widget.plot(
-    x_name='motor1',
-    y_name='motor2', 
-    z_name='detector1',
-    x_entry='RBV',      # Use readback value for x
-    y_entry='RBV',      # Use readback value for y
-    z_entry='value',    # Use main value for z
+    device_x='motor1',
+    device_y='motor2', 
+    device_z='detector1',
+    signal_x='RBV',      # Use readback value for x
+    signal_y='RBV',      # Use readback value for y
+    signal_z='value',    # Use main value for z
     color_map='viridis',
     reload=True         # Force reload of data
 )

docs/user/widgets/image/image_widget.md

@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ dock_area = gui.new()
 img_widget = dock_area.new().new(gui.available_widgets.Image)
 
 # Add an ImageWidget to the BECFigure for a 2D detector
-img_widget.image(device_name='eiger', device_entry='preview')
+img_widget.image(device='eiger', signal='preview')
 img_widget.title = "Camera Image - Eiger Detector"
 ```
 
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ dock_area = gui.new()
 img_widget = dock_area.new().new(gui.available_widgets.Image)
 
 # Add an ImageWidget to the BECFigure for a 2D detector
-img_widget.image(device_name='waveform', device_entry='data')
+img_widget.image(device='waveform', signal='data')
 img_widget.title = "Line Detector Data"
 
 # Optional: Set the color map and value range
@@ -84,7 +84,7 @@ The Image Widget can be configured for different detectors by specifying the cor
 
 ```python
 # For a 2D camera detector
-img_widget = fig.image(device_name='eiger', device_entry='preview')
+img_widget = fig.image(device='eiger', signal='preview')
 img_widget.set_title("Eiger Camera Image")
 ```
 
@@ -92,7 +92,7 @@ img_widget.set_title("Eiger Camera Image")
 
 ```python
 # For a 1D line detector
-img_widget = fig.image(device_name='waveform', device_entry='data')
+img_widget = fig.image(device='waveform', signal='data')
 img_widget.set_title("Line Detector Data")
 ```
 

docs/user/widgets/motor_map/motor_map.md

@@ -29,8 +29,8 @@ mm1 = dock_area.new().new(gui.available_widgets.MotorMap)
 mm2 = dock_area.new().new(gui.available_widgets.MotorMap)
 
 # Add signals to the MotorMaps
-mm1.map(x_name='samx', y_name='samy')
-mm2.map(x_name='aptrx', y_name='aptry')
+mm1.map(device_x='samx', device_y='samy')
+mm2.map(device_x='aptrx', device_y='aptry')
 ```
 
 ## Example 2 - Customizing Motor Map Display
@@ -57,7 +57,7 @@ You can dynamically change the motors being tracked and reset the history of the
 mm1.reset_history()
 
 # Change the motors being tracked
-mm1.map(x_name='aptrx', y_name='aptry')
+mm1.map(device_x='aptrx', device_y='aptry')
 ```
 ````
 

docs/user/widgets/scatter_waveform/scatter_waveform.md

@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ The 2D scatter plot widget is designed for more complex data visualization. It e
 ```python
 # Add a new dock_area, a new dock and a BECWaveForm to the dock
 plt = gui.new().new().new(gui.available_widgets.ScatterWaveform)
-plt.plot(x_name='samx', y_name='samy', z_name='bpm4i')
+plt.plot(device_x='samx', device_y='samy', device_z='bpm4i')
 
 ```