docs: fix license reference

Automatically generated by python-semantic-release

.github/workflows/ci.yml

@@ -0,0 +1,15 @@
+name: Full CI
+on: [push]
+
+jobs:
+  formatter:
+    uses: ./.github/workflows/formatter.yml
+
+  unit-test:
+    uses: ./.github/workflows/pytest.yml
+
+  unit-test-matrix:
+    uses: ./.github/workflows/pytest-matrix.yml
+
+  end2end-test:
+    uses: ./.github/workflows/end2end-conda.yml

.github/workflows/end2end-conda.yml

@@ -0,0 +1,48 @@
+name: Run Pytest with Coverage
+on: [workflow_call]
+
+jobs:
+  pytest:
+    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
+    defaults:
+      run:
+        shell: bash -el {0}
+
+    env:
+      CHILD_PIPELINE_BRANCH: main  # Set the branch you want for ophyd_devices
+      BEC_CORE_BRANCH: main        # Set the branch you want for bec
+      OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: main   # Set the branch you want for ophyd_devices
+      PROJECT_PATH: ${{ github.repository }}
+      QTWEBENGINE_DISABLE_SANDBOX: 1
+      QT_QPA_PLATFORM: "offscreen"
+
+    steps:
+      - uses: actions/checkout@v4
+
+      - name: Set up Conda
+        uses: conda-incubator/setup-miniconda@v3
+        with:
+            auto-update-conda: true
+            auto-activate-base: true
+            python-version: '3.11'
+
+      - name: Install dependencies
+        run: |
+          sudo apt-get update
+          sudo apt-get install -y libgl1 libegl1 x11-utils libxkbcommon-x11-0 libdbus-1-3 xvfb
+          sudo apt-get -y install libnss3 libxdamage1 libasound2t64 libatomic1 libxcursor1
+
+      - name: Conda install and run pytest
+        run: |
+          echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH of BEC CORE \033[0;m";
+          git clone --branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/bec.git
+          echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH of OPHYD_DEVICES \033[0;m";
+          git clone --branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/ophyd_devices.git
+          export OHPYD_DEVICES_PATH=$PWD/ophyd_devices
+          cd ./bec
+          conda create -q -n test-environment python=3.11
+          source ./bin/install_bec_dev.sh -t
+          cd ../
+          pip install -e ./ophyd_devices
+          pip install -e .[dev,pyside6]
+          pytest -v --files-path ./ --start-servers --random-order  ./tests/end-2-end

.github/workflows/formatter.yml

@@ -0,0 +1,61 @@
+name: Formatter and Pylint jobs
+on: [workflow_call]
+jobs:
+
+  Formatter:
+    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
+    steps:
+      - name: Check out repository code
+        uses: actions/checkout@v4
+      - name: Set up Python
+        uses: actions/setup-python@v5
+        with:
+          python-version: '3.13' 
+
+      - name: Run black and isort
+        run: |
+          pip install black isort
+          pip install -e .[dev]
+          black --check --diff --color .
+          isort --check --diff ./
+  Pylint:
+    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
+
+    steps:
+      - uses: actions/checkout@v4
+
+      - name: Set up Python
+        uses: actions/setup-python@v5
+        with:
+          python-version: '3.13'
+
+      - name: Install dependencies
+        run: |
+          python -m pip install --upgrade pip
+          pip install pylint pylint-exit anybadge
+
+      - name: Run Pylint
+        run: |
+          mkdir -p ./pylint
+          set +e
+          pylint ./${{ github.event.repository.name }} --output-format=text > ./pylint/pylint.log
+          pylint-exit $?
+          set -e
+
+      - name: Extract Pylint Score
+        id: score
+        run: |
+          SCORE=$(sed -n 's/^Your code has been rated at \([-0-9.]*\)\/.*/\1/p' ./pylint/pylint.log)
+          echo "score=$SCORE" >> $GITHUB_OUTPUT
+
+      - name: Create Badge
+        run: |
+          anybadge --label=Pylint --file=./pylint/pylint.svg --value="${{ steps.score.outputs.score }}" 2=red 4=orange 8=yellow 10=green
+
+      - name: Upload Artifacts
+        uses: actions/upload-artifact@v4
+        with:
+          name: pylint-artifacts
+          path: |
+            # ./pylint/pylint.log # not sure why this isn't working
+            ./pylint/pylint.svg

.github/workflows/pytest-matrix.yml

@@ -0,0 +1,48 @@
+name: Run Pytest with different Python versions
+on: [workflow_call]
+
+jobs:
+  pytest-matrix:
+    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
+    strategy:
+      matrix:
+        python-version: ["3.10", "3.11", "3.12"]
+
+    env:
+      CHILD_PIPELINE_BRANCH: main  # Set the branch you want for ophyd_devices
+      BEC_CORE_BRANCH: main        # Set the branch you want for bec
+      OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: main   # Set the branch you want for ophyd_devices
+      PROJECT_PATH: ${{ github.repository }}
+      QTWEBENGINE_DISABLE_SANDBOX: 1
+      QT_QPA_PLATFORM: "offscreen"
+
+    steps:
+      - uses: actions/checkout@v4
+
+      - name: Set up Python
+        uses: actions/setup-python@v5
+        with:
+          python-version: ${{ matrix.python-version }}
+
+      - name: Install dependencies
+        run: |
+          sudo apt-get update
+          sudo apt-get install -y libgl1 libegl1 x11-utils libxkbcommon-x11-0 libdbus-1-3 xvfb
+          sudo apt-get -y install libnss3 libxdamage1 libasound2t64 libatomic1 libxcursor1
+
+      - name: Clone and install dependencies
+        run: |
+          echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH of BEC CORE \033[0;m";
+          git clone --branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/bec.git
+          echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH of OPHYD_DEVICES \033[0;m";
+          git clone --branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/ophyd_devices.git
+          export OHPYD_DEVICES_PATH=$PWD/ophyd_devices
+          pip install -e ./ophyd_devices
+          pip install -e ./bec/bec_lib[dev]
+          pip install -e ./bec/bec_ipython_client
+          pip install -e .[dev,pyside6]
+
+      - name: Run Pytest
+        run: |
+          pip install pytest pytest-random-order
+          pytest -v --maxfail=2 --junitxml=report.xml --random-order ./tests/unit_tests

.github/workflows/pytest.yml

@@ -0,0 +1,47 @@
+name: Run Pytest with Coverage
+on: [workflow_call]
+
+jobs:
+  pytest:
+    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
+
+    env:
+      CHILD_PIPELINE_BRANCH: main  # Set the branch you want for ophyd_devices
+      BEC_CORE_BRANCH: main        # Set the branch you want for bec
+      OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: main   # Set the branch you want for ophyd_devices
+      PROJECT_PATH: ${{ github.repository }}
+      QTWEBENGINE_DISABLE_SANDBOX: 1
+      QT_QPA_PLATFORM: "offscreen"
+
+    steps:
+      - uses: actions/checkout@v4
+
+      - name: Set up Python
+        uses: actions/setup-python@v5
+        with:
+          python-version: '3.11'
+
+      - name: Install dependencies
+        run: |
+          sudo apt-get update
+          sudo apt-get install -y libgl1 libegl1 x11-utils libxkbcommon-x11-0 libdbus-1-3 xvfb
+          sudo apt-get -y install libnss3 libxdamage1 libasound2t64 libatomic1 libxcursor1
+
+      - name: Clone and install dependencies
+        run: |
+          echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH of BEC CORE \033[0;m";
+          git clone --branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/bec.git
+          echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH of OPHYD_DEVICES \033[0;m";
+          git clone --branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/ophyd_devices.git
+          export OHPYD_DEVICES_PATH=$PWD/ophyd_devices
+          pip install -e ./ophyd_devices
+          pip install -e ./bec/bec_lib[dev]
+          pip install -e ./bec/bec_ipython_client
+          pip install -e .[dev,pyside6]
+
+      - name: Run Pytest with Coverage
+        run: |
+          pip install coverage pytest pytest-random-order
+          coverage run --source=./bec_widgets -m pytest -v --junitxml=report.xml --maxfail=2 --random-order --full-trace ./tests/unit_tests
+          coverage report
+          coverage xml

.gitlab-ci.yml

@@ -5,9 +5,16 @@ image: $CI_DEPENDENCY_PROXY_GROUP_IMAGE_PREFIX/python:3.11
 #commands to run in the Docker container before starting each job.
 variables:
   DOCKER_TLS_CERTDIR: ""
-  BEC_CORE_BRANCH: "main"
-  OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH: "main"
+  BEC_CORE_BRANCH:
+    description: bec branch
+    value: main
+  OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH:
+    description: ophyd_devices branch
+    value: main
   CHILD_PIPELINE_BRANCH: $CI_DEFAULT_BRANCH
+  CHECK_PKG_VERSIONS:
+    description: Whether to run additional tests against min/max/random selection of dependencies. Set to 1 for running.
+    value: 0
 
 workflow:
   rules:
@@ -27,8 +34,8 @@ include:
     inputs:
       stage: test
       path: "."
-      pytest_args: "-v --random-order tests/"
-      exclude_packages: ""
+      pytest_args: "-v,--random-order,tests/unit_tests"
+      pip_args: ".[dev]"
 
 # different stages in the pipeline
 stages:
@@ -43,13 +50,21 @@ stages:
   - export QTWEBENGINE_DISABLE_SANDBOX=1
 
 .clone-repos: &clone-repos
+  - echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH of BEC CORE \033[0;m";
   - git clone --branch $BEC_CORE_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/bec.git
+  - echo -e "\033[35;1m Using branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH of OPHYD_DEVICES \033[0;m";
   - git clone --branch $OPHYD_DEVICES_BRANCH https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/ophyd_devices.git
   - export OHPYD_DEVICES_PATH=$PWD/ophyd_devices
 
+.install-repos: &install-repos
+  - pip install -e ./ophyd_devices
+  - pip install -e ./bec/bec_lib[dev]
+  - pip install -e ./bec/bec_ipython_client
+  - pip install -e ./bec/pytest_bec_e2e
+
 .install-os-packages: &install-os-packages
   - apt-get update
-  - apt-get install -y libgl1-mesa-glx libegl1-mesa x11-utils libxkbcommon-x11-0 libdbus-1-3
+  - apt-get install -y libgl1-mesa-glx libegl1-mesa x11-utils libxkbcommon-x11-0 libdbus-1-3 xvfb
   - *install-qt-webengine-deps
 
 before_script:
@@ -62,9 +77,9 @@ formatter:
   stage: Formatter
   needs: []
   script:
-    - pip install black isort
-    - isort --check --diff ./
-    - black --check --diff --color ./
+    - pip install -e ./[dev]
+    - isort --check --diff --line-length=100 --profile=black --multi-line=3 --trailing-comma ./
+    - black --check --diff --color --line-length=100 --skip-magic-trailing-comma ./
   rules:
     - if: $CI_PROJECT_PATH == "bec/bec_widgets"
 
@@ -73,7 +88,7 @@ pylint:
   needs: []
   before_script:
     - pip install pylint pylint-exit anybadge
-    - pip install -e .[dev,pyqt6]
+    - pip install -e .[dev]
   script:
     - mkdir ./pylint
     - pylint ./bec_widgets --output-format=text --output=./pylint/pylint.log | tee ./pylint/pylint.log || pylint-exit $?
@@ -131,10 +146,9 @@ tests:
   script:
     - *clone-repos
     - *install-os-packages
-    - pip install -e ./bec/bec_lib[dev]
-    - pip install -e ./bec/bec_ipython_client
-    - pip install -e .[dev,pyqt6]
-    - coverage run --source=./bec_widgets -m pytest -v --junitxml=report.xml --random-order --full-trace ./tests/unit_tests
+    - *install-repos
+    - pip install -e .[dev,pyside6]
+    - coverage run --source=./bec_widgets -m pytest -v --junitxml=report.xml --maxfail=2 --random-order --full-trace ./tests/unit_tests
     - coverage report
     - coverage xml
   coverage: '/(?i)total.*? (100(?:\.0+)?\%|[1-9]?\d(?:\.\d+)?\%)$/'
@@ -148,6 +162,20 @@ tests:
       - tests/reference_failures/
     when: always
 
+generate-client-check:
+  stage: test
+  needs: []
+  variables:
+    QT_QPA_PLATFORM: "offscreen"
+  script:
+    - *clone-repos
+    - *install-os-packages
+    - *install-repos
+    - pip install -e .[dev,pyside6]
+    - bw-generate-cli --target bec_widgets
+    # if there are changes in the generated files, fail the job
+    - git diff --exit-code
+
 test-matrix:
   parallel:
     matrix:
@@ -157,7 +185,6 @@ test-matrix:
           - "3.12"
         QT_PCKG:
           - "pyside6"
-          - "pyqt6"
 
   stage: AdditionalTests
   needs: []
@@ -169,23 +196,27 @@ test-matrix:
   script:
     - *clone-repos
     - *install-os-packages
-    - pip install -e ./bec/bec_lib[dev]
-    - pip install -e ./bec/bec_ipython_client
+    - *install-repos
     - pip install -e .[dev,$QT_PCKG]
-    - pytest -v --junitxml=report.xml --random-order ./tests/unit_tests
-  allow_failure: true
+    - pytest -v --maxfail=2 --junitxml=report.xml --random-order ./tests/unit_tests
 
 end-2-end-conda:
   stage: End2End
   needs: []
-  image: continuumio/miniconda3
+  image: continuumio/miniconda3:25.1.1-2
   allow_failure: false
   variables:
     QT_QPA_PLATFORM: "offscreen"
   script:
     - *clone-repos
     - *install-os-packages
-    - conda config --prepend channels conda-forge
+    - conda config --show-sources
+    - conda config --add channels conda-forge
+    - conda config --system --remove channels https://repo.anaconda.com/pkgs/main
+    - conda config --system --remove channels https://repo.anaconda.com/pkgs/r
+    - conda config --remove channels https://repo.anaconda.com/pkgs/main
+    - conda config --remove channels https://repo.anaconda.com/pkgs/r
+    - conda config --show-sources
     - conda config --set channel_priority strict
     - conda config --set always_yes yes --set changeps1 no
     - conda create -q -n test-environment python=3.11
@@ -195,13 +226,11 @@ end-2-end-conda:
 
     - cd ./bec
     - source ./bin/install_bec_dev.sh -t
-
-    - pip install -e ./bec_lib[dev]
-    - pip install -e ./bec_ipython_client[dev]
     - cd ../
-    - pip install -e .[dev,pyqt6]
-    - cd ./tests/end-2-end
-    - pytest -v --start-servers --flush-redis --random-order
+    - pip install -e ./ophyd_devices
+
+    - pip install -e .[dev,pyside6]
+    - pytest -v --files-path ./ --start-servers --random-order  ./tests/end-2-end
 
   artifacts:
     when: on_failure
@@ -216,6 +245,7 @@ end-2-end-conda:
     - if: '$CI_PIPELINE_SOURCE == "parent_pipeline"'
     - if: '$CI_MERGE_REQUEST_TARGET_BRANCH_NAME == "main"'
     - if: '$CI_MERGE_REQUEST_TARGET_BRANCH_NAME == "production"'
+    - if: "$CI_MERGE_REQUEST_TARGET_BRANCH_NAME =~ /^pre_release.*$/"
 
 semver:
   stage: Deploy

README.md

@@ -1,12 +1,24 @@
 # BEC Widgets
 
+
+[![CI](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/actions/workflows/ci.yml/badge.svg)](https://github.com/bec-project/bec_widgets/actions/workflows/ci.yml)
+[![badge](https://img.shields.io/pypi/v/bec-widgets)](https://pypi.org/project/bec-widgets/)
+[![License](https://img.shields.io/github/license/bec-project/bec_widgets)](./LICENSE)
+[![Code style: black](https://img.shields.io/badge/code%20style-black-000000.svg)](https://github.com/psf/black)
+
+
+**⚠️ Important Notice:**
+
+🚨 **PyQt6 is no longer supported** due to incompatibilities with Qt Designer. Please use **PySide6** instead. 🚨
+
 BEC Widgets is a GUI framework designed for interaction with [BEC (Beamline Experiment Control)](https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/bec).
+
 ## Installation
 
 Use the package manager [pip](https://pip.pypa.io/en/stable/) to install BEC Widgets:
 
 ```bash
-pip install bec_widgets PyQt6
+pip install bec_widgets[pyside6]
 ```
 
 For development purposes, you can clone the repository and install the package locally in editable mode:
@@ -14,22 +26,12 @@ For development purposes, you can clone the repository and install the package l
 ```bash
 git clone https://gitlab.psi.ch/bec/bec-widgets
 cd bec_widgets
-pip install -e .[dev,pyqt6]
+pip install -e .[dev,pyside6]
 ```
 
-BEC Widgets currently supports both Pyside6 and PyQt6, however, no default distribution is specified. As a result, users must install one of the supported
-Python Qt distributions manually.
+BEC Widgets now **only supports PySide6**. Users must manually install PySide6 as no default Qt distribution is
+specified.
 
-To select a specific Python Qt distribution, install the package with an additional tag:
-
-```bash
-pip install bec_widgets[pyqt6]
-```
-or 
-
-```bash
-pip install bec_widgets[pyside6]
-```
 ## Documentation
 
 Documentation of BEC Widgets can be found [here](https://bec-widgets.readthedocs.io/en/latest/). The documentation of the BEC can be found [here](https://bec.readthedocs.io/en/latest/).
@@ -39,7 +41,7 @@ Documentation of BEC Widgets can be found [here](https://bec-widgets.readthedocs
 All commits should use the Angular commit scheme:
 
 > #### <a name="commit-header"></a>Angular Commit Message Header
-> 
+>
 > ```
 > <type>(<scope>): <short summary>
 >   │       │             │
@@ -53,13 +55,13 @@ All commits should use the Angular commit scheme:
 >   │
 >   └─⫸ Commit Type: build|ci|docs|feat|fix|perf|refactor|test
 > ```
-> 
+>
 > The `<type>` and `<summary>` fields are mandatory, the `(<scope>)` field is optional.
 
 > ##### Type
-> 
+>
 > Must be one of the following:
-> 
+>
 > * **build**: Changes that affect the build system or external dependencies (example scopes: gulp, broccoli, npm)
 > * **ci**: Changes to our CI configuration files and scripts (examples: CircleCi, SauceLabs)
 > * **docs**: Documentation only changes
@@ -71,4 +73,5 @@ All commits should use the Angular commit scheme:
 
 ## License
 
-[BSD-3-Clause](https://choosealicense.com/licenses/bsd-3-clause/)
+[BSD-3-Clause](https://choosealicense.com/licenses/bsd-3-clause/)
+

bec_widgets/__init__.py

@@ -0,0 +1,4 @@
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
+from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeProperty, SafeSlot
+
+__all__ = ["BECWidget", "SafeSlot", "SafeProperty"]

bec_widgets/applications/bw_launch.py

@@ -0,0 +1,23 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.auto_update.auto_updates import AutoUpdates
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock.dock_area import BECDockArea
+
+
+def dock_area(object_name: str | None = None) -> BECDockArea:
+    _dock_area = BECDockArea(object_name=object_name, root_widget=True)
+    return _dock_area
+
+
+def auto_update_dock_area(object_name: str | None = None) -> AutoUpdates:
+    """
+    Create a dock area with auto update enabled.
+
+    Args:
+        object_name(str): The name of the dock area.
+
+    Returns:
+        BECDockArea: The created dock area.
+    """
+    _auto_update = AutoUpdates(object_name=object_name)
+    return _auto_update

bec_widgets/applications/launch_window.py

@@ -0,0 +1,517 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import os
+import xml.etree.ElementTree as ET
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Callable
+
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import Qt, Signal  # type: ignore
+from qtpy.QtGui import QPainter, QPainterPath, QPixmap
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QApplication,
+    QComboBox,
+    QFileDialog,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QLabel,
+    QPushButton,
+    QSizePolicy,
+    QSpacerItem,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+import bec_widgets
+from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_register import RPCRegister
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_plugin_helper import get_all_plugin_widgets
+from bec_widgets.utils.container_utils import WidgetContainerUtils
+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.toolbar import ModularToolBar
+from bec_widgets.utils.ui_loader import UILoader
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.auto_update.auto_updates import AutoUpdates
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock.dock_area import BECDockArea
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindow, UILaunchWindow
+from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.visual.dark_mode_button.dark_mode_button import DarkModeButton
+
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from qtpy.QtCore import QObject
+
+    from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+MODULE_PATH = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
+
+
+class LaunchTile(RoundedFrame):
+    open_signal = Signal()
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        parent: QObject | None = None,
+        icon_path: str | None = None,
+        top_label: str | None = None,
+        main_label: str | None = None,
+        description: str | None = None,
+        show_selector: bool = False,
+    ):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, orientation="vertical")
+
+        self.icon_label = QLabel(parent=self)
+        self.icon_label.setFixedSize(100, 100)
+        self.icon_label.setScaledContents(True)
+        pixmap = QPixmap(icon_path)
+        if not pixmap.isNull():
+            size = 100
+            circular_pixmap = QPixmap(size, size)
+            circular_pixmap.fill(Qt.transparent)
+
+            painter = QPainter(circular_pixmap)
+            painter.setRenderHints(QPainter.Antialiasing, True)
+            path = QPainterPath()
+            path.addEllipse(0, 0, size, size)
+            painter.setClipPath(path)
+            pixmap = pixmap.scaled(size, size, Qt.KeepAspectRatio, Qt.SmoothTransformation)
+            painter.drawPixmap(0, 0, pixmap)
+            painter.end()
+
+            self.icon_label.setPixmap(circular_pixmap)
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.icon_label, alignment=Qt.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)
+
+        # Main label
+        self.main_label = QLabel(main_label)
+        font_main = self.main_label.font()
+        font_main.setPointSize(14)
+        font_main.setBold(True)
+        self.main_label.setFont(font_main)
+        self.main_label.setWordWrap(True)
+        self.main_label.setAlignment(Qt.AlignCenter)
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.main_label)
+
+        self.spacer_top = QSpacerItem(0, 10, QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.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.layout.addWidget(self.description_label)
+
+        # Selector
+        if show_selector:
+            self.selector = QComboBox(self)
+            self.layout.addWidget(self.selector)
+        else:
+            self.selector = None
+
+        self.spacer_bottom = QSpacerItem(0, 0, QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+        self.layout.addItem(self.spacer_bottom)
+
+        # Action button
+        self.action_button = QPushButton("Open")
+        self.action_button.setStyleSheet(
+            """
+        QPushButton {
+            background-color: #007AFF;
+            border: none;
+            padding: 8px 16px;
+            color: white;
+            border-radius: 6px;
+            font-weight: bold;
+        }
+        QPushButton:hover {
+            background-color: #005BB5;
+        }
+        """
+        )
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.action_button, alignment=Qt.AlignCenter)
+
+
+class LaunchWindow(BECMainWindow):
+    RPC = True
+    TILE_SIZE = (250, 300)
+    USER_ACCESS = ["show_launcher", "hide_launcher"]
+
+    def __init__(
+        self, parent=None, gui_id: str = None, window_title="BEC Launcher", *args, **kwargs
+    ):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, gui_id=gui_id, window_title=window_title, **kwargs)
+
+        self.app = QApplication.instance()
+        self.tiles: dict[str, LaunchTile] = {}
+
+        # Toolbar
+        self.dark_mode_button = DarkModeButton(parent=self, toolbar=True)
+        self.toolbar = ModularToolBar(parent=self)
+        self.addToolBar(Qt.TopToolBarArea, self.toolbar)
+        self.spacer = QWidget(self)
+        self.spacer.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+        self.toolbar.addWidget(self.spacer)
+        self.toolbar.addWidget(self.dark_mode_button)
+
+        # Main Widget
+        self.central_widget = QWidget(self)
+        self.central_widget.layout = QHBoxLayout(self.central_widget)
+        self.setCentralWidget(self.central_widget)
+
+        self.register_tile(
+            name="dock_area",
+            icon_path=os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "assets", "app_icons", "bec_widgets_icon.png"),
+            top_label="Get started",
+            main_label="BEC Dock Area",
+            description="Highly flexible and customizable dock area application with modular widgets.",
+            action_button=lambda: self.launch("dock_area"),
+            show_selector=False,
+        )
+
+        self.available_auto_updates: dict[str, type[AutoUpdates]] = (
+            self._update_available_auto_updates()
+        )
+        self.register_tile(
+            name="auto_update",
+            icon_path=os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "assets", "app_icons", "auto_update.png"),
+            top_label="Get automated",
+            main_label="BEC Auto Update Dock Area",
+            description="Dock area with auto update functionality for BEC widgets plotting.",
+            action_button=self._open_auto_update,
+            show_selector=True,
+            selector_items=list(self.available_auto_updates.keys()) + ["Default"],
+        )
+
+        self.register_tile(
+            name="custom_ui_file",
+            icon_path=os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "assets", "app_icons", "ui_loader_tile.png"),
+            top_label="Get customized",
+            main_label="Launch Custom UI File",
+            description="GUI application with custom UI file.",
+            action_button=self._open_custom_ui_file,
+            show_selector=False,
+        )
+
+        # plugin widgets
+        self.available_widgets: dict[str, BECWidget] = get_all_plugin_widgets()
+        if self.available_widgets:
+            plugin_repo_name = next(iter(self.available_widgets.values())).__module__.split(".")[0]
+            plugin_repo_name = plugin_repo_name.removesuffix("_bec").upper()
+            self.register_tile(
+                name="widget",
+                icon_path=os.path.join(
+                    MODULE_PATH, "assets", "app_icons", "widget_launch_tile.png"
+                ),
+                top_label="Get quickly started",
+                main_label=f"Launch a {plugin_repo_name} Widget",
+                description=f"GUI application with one widget from the {plugin_repo_name} repository.",
+                action_button=self._open_widget,
+                show_selector=True,
+                selector_items=list(self.available_widgets.keys()),
+            )
+
+        self._update_theme()
+
+        self.register = RPCRegister()
+        self.register.callbacks.append(self._turn_off_the_lights)
+        self.register.broadcast()
+
+    def register_tile(
+        self,
+        name: str,
+        icon_path: str | None = None,
+        top_label: str | None = None,
+        main_label: str | None = None,
+        description: str | None = None,
+        action_button: Callable | None = None,
+        show_selector: bool = False,
+        selector_items: list[str] | None = None,
+    ):
+        """
+        Register a tile in the launcher window.
+
+        Args:
+            name(str): The name of the tile.
+            icon_path(str): The path to the icon.
+            top_label(str): The top label of the tile.
+            main_label(str): The main label of the tile.
+            description(str): The description of the tile.
+            action_button(callable): The action to be performed when the button is clicked.
+            show_selector(bool): Whether to show a selector or not.
+            selector_items(list[str]): The items to be shown in the selector.
+        """
+
+        tile = LaunchTile(
+            icon_path=icon_path,
+            top_label=top_label,
+            main_label=main_label,
+            description=description,
+            show_selector=show_selector,
+        )
+        tile.setFixedSize(*self.TILE_SIZE)
+        if action_button:
+            tile.action_button.clicked.connect(action_button)
+        if show_selector and selector_items:
+            tile.selector.addItems(selector_items)
+        self.central_widget.layout.addWidget(tile)
+
+        self.tiles[name] = tile
+
+    def launch(
+        self,
+        launch_script: str,
+        name: str | None = None,
+        geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None = None,
+        **kwargs,
+    ) -> QWidget | None:
+        """Launch the specified script. If the launch script creates a QWidget, it will be
+        embedded in a BECMainWindow. If the launch script creates a BECMainWindow, it will be shown
+        as a separate window.
+
+        Args:
+            launch_script(str): The name of the script to be launched.
+            name(str): The name of the dock area.
+            geometry(tuple): The geometry parameters to be passed to the dock area.
+        Returns:
+            QWidget: The created dock area.
+        """
+        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:
+                if name in existing_dock_areas:
+                    raise ValueError(
+                        f"Name {name} must be unique for dock areas, but already exists: {existing_dock_areas}."
+                    )
+                WidgetContainerUtils.raise_for_invalid_name(name)
+
+            else:
+                name = "dock_area"
+                name = WidgetContainerUtils.generate_unique_name(name, existing_dock_areas)
+
+            if launch_script is None:
+                launch_script = "dock_area"
+            if not isinstance(launch_script, str):
+                raise ValueError(f"Launch script must be a string, but got {type(launch_script)}.")
+
+            if launch_script == "custom_ui_file":
+                ui_file = kwargs.pop("ui_file", None)
+                if not ui_file:
+                    return None
+                return self._launch_custom_ui_file(ui_file)
+
+            if launch_script == "auto_update":
+                auto_update = kwargs.pop("auto_update", None)
+                return self._launch_auto_update(auto_update)
+
+            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)
+
+            launch = getattr(bw_launch, launch_script, None)
+            if launch is None:
+                raise ValueError(f"Launch script {launch_script} not found.")
+
+            result_widget = launch(name)
+            result_widget.resize(result_widget.minimumSizeHint())
+            # TODO Should we simply use the specified name as title here?
+            result_widget.window().setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {name}")
+            logger.info(f"Created new dock area: {name}")
+
+            if geometry is not None:
+                result_widget.setGeometry(*geometry)
+            if isinstance(result_widget, BECMainWindow):
+                result_widget.show()
+            else:
+                window = BECMainWindow()
+                window.setCentralWidget(result_widget)
+                window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {result_widget.objectName()}")
+                window.show()
+            return result_widget
+
+    def _launch_custom_ui_file(self, ui_file: str | None) -> BECMainWindow:
+        # Load the custom UI file
+        if ui_file is None:
+            raise ValueError("UI file must be provided for custom UI file launch.")
+        filename = os.path.basename(ui_file).split(".")[0]
+
+        WidgetContainerUtils.raise_for_invalid_name(filename)
+
+        tree = ET.parse(ui_file)
+        root = tree.getroot()
+        # Check if the top-level widget is a QMainWindow
+        widget = root.find("widget")
+        if widget is None:
+            raise ValueError("No widget found in the UI file.")
+
+        if widget.attrib.get("class") == "QMainWindow":
+            raise ValueError(
+                "Loading a QMainWindow from a UI file is currently not supported. "
+                "If you need this, please contact the BEC team or create a ticket on gitlab.psi.ch/bec/bec_widgets."
+            )
+
+        window = UILaunchWindow(object_name=filename)
+        QApplication.processEvents()
+        result_widget = UILoader(window).loader(ui_file)
+        window.setCentralWidget(result_widget)
+        window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {window.object_name}")
+        window.show()
+        logger.info(f"Object name of new instance: {result_widget.objectName()}, {window.gui_id}")
+        return window
+
+    def _launch_auto_update(self, auto_update: str) -> AutoUpdates:
+        if auto_update in self.available_auto_updates:
+            auto_update_cls = self.available_auto_updates[auto_update]
+            window = auto_update_cls()
+        else:
+
+            auto_update = "auto_updates"
+            window = AutoUpdates()
+
+        window.resize(window.minimumSizeHint())
+        QApplication.processEvents()
+        window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {window.objectName()}")
+        window.show()
+        return window
+
+    def _launch_widget(self, widget: type[BECWidget]) -> QWidget:
+        name = pascal_to_snake(widget.__name__)
+
+        WidgetContainerUtils.raise_for_invalid_name(name)
+
+        window = BECMainWindow()
+
+        widget_instance = widget(root_widget=True, object_name=name)
+        assert isinstance(widget_instance, QWidget)
+        QApplication.processEvents()
+
+        window.setCentralWidget(widget_instance)
+        window.resize(window.minimumSizeHint())
+        window.setWindowTitle(f"BEC - {widget_instance.objectName()}")
+        window.show()
+        return window
+
+    def apply_theme(self, theme: str):
+        """
+        Change the theme of the application.
+        """
+        for tile in self.tiles.values():
+            tile.apply_theme(theme)
+
+        super().apply_theme(theme)
+
+    def _open_auto_update(self):
+        """
+        Open the auto update window.
+        """
+        if self.tiles["auto_update"].selector is None:
+            auto_update = None
+        else:
+            auto_update = self.tiles["auto_update"].selector.currentText()
+            if auto_update == "Default":
+                auto_update = None
+        return self.launch("auto_update", auto_update=auto_update)
+
+    def _open_widget(self):
+        """
+        Open a widget from the available widgets.
+        """
+        if self.tiles["widget"].selector is None:
+            return
+        widget = self.tiles["widget"].selector.currentText()
+        if widget not in self.available_widgets:
+            raise ValueError(f"Widget {widget} not found in available widgets.")
+        return self.launch("widget", widget=self.available_widgets[widget])
+
+    @SafeSlot(popup_error=True)
+    def _open_custom_ui_file(self):
+        """
+        Open a file dialog to select a custom UI file and launch it.
+        """
+        ui_file, _ = QFileDialog.getOpenFileName(
+            self, "Select UI File", "", "UI Files (*.ui);;All Files (*)"
+        )
+        self.launch("custom_ui_file", ui_file=ui_file)
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _update_available_auto_updates() -> dict[str, type[AutoUpdates]]:
+        """
+        Load all available auto updates from the plugin repository.
+        """
+        try:
+            auto_updates = get_plugin_auto_updates()
+            logger.info(f"Available auto updates: {auto_updates.keys()}")
+        except Exception as exc:
+            logger.error(f"Failed to load auto updates: {exc}")
+            return {}
+        return auto_updates
+
+    def show_launcher(self):
+        """
+        Show the launcher window.
+        """
+        self.show()
+
+    def hide_launcher(self):
+        """
+        Hide the launcher window.
+        """
+        self.hide()
+
+    def showEvent(self, event):
+        super().showEvent(event)
+        self.setFixedSize(self.size())
+
+    def _launcher_is_last_widget(self, connections: dict) -> bool:
+        """
+        Check if the launcher is the last widget in the application.
+        """
+
+        remaining_connections = [
+            connection for connection in connections.values() if connection.parent_id != self.gui_id
+        ]
+        return len(remaining_connections) <= 1
+
+    def _turn_off_the_lights(self, connections: dict):
+        """
+        If there is only one connection remaining, it is the launcher, so we show it.
+        Once the launcher is closed as the last window, we quit the application.
+        """
+        if self._launcher_is_last_widget(connections):
+            self.show()
+            self.activateWindow()
+            self.raise_()
+            if self.app:
+                self.app.setQuitOnLastWindowClosed(True)  # type: ignore
+            return
+
+        self.hide()
+        if self.app:
+            self.app.setQuitOnLastWindowClosed(False)  # type: ignore
+
+    def closeEvent(self, event):
+        """
+        Close the launcher window.
+        """
+        connections = self.register.list_all_connections()
+        if self._launcher_is_last_widget(connections):
+            event.accept()
+            return
+
+        event.ignore()
+        self.hide()
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    import sys
+
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+    launcher = LaunchWindow()
+    launcher.show()
+    sys.exit(app.exec())

bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/add.svg

@@ -1,3 +0,0 @@
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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/auto_range.svg

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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/connection.svg

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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/drag_pan_mode.svg

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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/export.svg

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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/fitting_parameters.svg

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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/history.svg

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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/import.svg

@@ -1,9 +0,0 @@
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-    <g>
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-    </g>
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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/line_axis.svg

@@ -1,3 +0,0 @@
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-</svg>

bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/photo_library.svg

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bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/rectangle_mode.svg

@@ -1,3 +0,0 @@
-<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="48px" viewBox="0 -960 960 960" width="48px" fill="#FFFFFF">
-    <path d="M444.19-421.3q39.72 0 67.4-27.78 27.67-27.78 27.67-66.91 0-39.14-27.71-66.57Q483.83-610 444.4-610q-39.44 0-66.92 27.28Q350-555.44 350-516.3q0 39.13 27.36 67.06 27.35 27.94 66.83 27.94ZM634.52-274 532.78-375.74q-22.56 12.31-44.41 19.02-21.84 6.72-43.28 6.72-69.57 0-117.7-48.62-48.13-48.62-48.13-117.88 0-67.98 48.29-116.39t117.08-48.41q68.79 0 117.08 48.41Q610-584.48 610-515.75q0 21.72-6.93 44.13-6.94 22.4-20.37 44.97l102.73 102.74L634.52-274ZM185.09-105.87q-32.51 0-55.87-23.35-23.35-23.36-23.35-55.87V-352h79.22v166.91H352v79.22H185.09Zm422.91 0v-79.22h166.91V-352h79.79v166.91q0 32.51-23.53 55.87-23.52 23.35-56.26 23.35H608ZM105.87-608v-166.91q0-32.74 23.35-56.26 23.36-23.53 55.87-23.53H352v79.79H185.09V-608h-79.22Zm669.04 0v-166.91H608v-79.79h166.91q32.74 0 56.26 23.53 23.53 23.52 23.53 56.26V-608h-79.79Z"/>
-</svg>

bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/remove.svg

@@ -1,5 +0,0 @@
-<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" enable-background="new 0 0 24 24" height="48px" viewBox="0 0 24 24" width="48px"
-     fill="#8B1A10">
-    <rect fill="none" height="24" width="24"/>
-    <path d="M19,19H5V5h14V19z M3,3v18h18V3H3z M17,15.59L15.59,17L12,13.41L8.41,17L7,15.59L10.59,12L7,8.41L8.41,7L12,10.59L15.59,7 L17,8.41L13.41,12L17,15.59z"/>
-</svg>

bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/save.svg

@@ -1,3 +0,0 @@
-<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="48px" viewBox="0 -960 960 960" width="48px" fill="#FFFFFF">
-    <path d="M854.7-689.22v504.13q0 32.51-23.53 55.87-23.52 23.35-56.26 23.35H185.09q-32.51 0-55.87-23.35-23.35-23.36-23.35-55.87v-589.82q0-32.74 23.35-56.26 23.36-23.53 55.87-23.53h504.13L854.7-689.22Zm-79.79 35.48L653.74-774.91H185.09v589.82h589.82v-468.65ZM479.76-250.09q43.24 0 73.74-30.26 30.5-30.27 30.5-73.5 0-43.24-30.26-73.74-30.27-30.5-73.5-30.5-43.24 0-73.74 30.27-30.5 30.26-30.5 73.5 0 43.23 30.26 73.73 30.27 30.5 73.5 30.5ZM238.09-578.91h358v-143h-358v143Zm-53-74.83v468.65-589.82 121.17Z"/>
-</svg>

bec_widgets/assets/toolbar_icons/settings.svg

@@ -1,4 +0,0 @@
-<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="48px" viewBox="0 0 24 24" width="48px" fill="#FFFFFF">
-    <path d="M0 0h24v24H0V0z" fill="none"/>
-    <path d="M19.43 12.98c.04-.32.07-.64.07-.98 0-.34-.03-.66-.07-.98l2.11-1.65c.19-.15.24-.42.12-.64l-2-3.46c-.09-.16-.26-.25-.44-.25-.06 0-.12.01-.17.03l-2.49 1c-.52-.4-1.08-.73-1.69-.98l-.38-2.65C14.46 2.18 14.25 2 14 2h-4c-.25 0-.46.18-.49.42l-.38 2.65c-.61.25-1.17.59-1.69.98l-2.49-1c-.06-.02-.12-.03-.18-.03-.17 0-.34.09-.43.25l-2 3.46c-.13.22-.07.49.12.64l2.11 1.65c-.04.32-.07.65-.07.98 0 .33.03.66.07.98l-2.11 1.65c-.19.15-.24.42-.12.64l2 3.46c.09.16.26.25.44.25.06 0 .12-.01.17-.03l2.49-1c.52.4 1.08.73 1.69.98l.38 2.65c.03.24.24.42.49.42h4c.25 0 .46-.18.49-.42l.38-2.65c.61-.25 1.17-.59 1.69-.98l2.49 1c.06.02.12.03.18.03.17 0 .34-.09.43-.25l2-3.46c.12-.22.07-.49-.12-.64l-2.11-1.65zm-1.98-1.71c.04.31.05.52.05.73 0 .21-.02.43-.05.73l-.14 1.13.89.7 1.08.84-.7 1.21-1.27-.51-1.04-.42-.9.68c-.43.32-.84.56-1.25.73l-1.06.43-.16 1.13-.2 1.35h-1.4l-.19-1.35-.16-1.13-1.06-.43c-.43-.18-.83-.41-1.23-.71l-.91-.7-1.06.43-1.27.51-.7-1.21 1.08-.84.89-.7-.14-1.13c-.03-.31-.05-.54-.05-.74s.02-.43.05-.73l.14-1.13-.89-.7-1.08-.84.7-1.21 1.27.51 1.04.42.9-.68c.43-.32.84-.56 1.25-.73l1.06-.43.16-1.13.2-1.35h1.39l.19 1.35.16 1.13 1.06.43c.43.18.83.41 1.23.71l.91.7 1.06-.43 1.27-.51.7 1.21-1.07.85-.89.7.14 1.13zM12 8c-2.21 0-4 1.79-4 4s1.79 4 4 4 4-1.79 4-4-1.79-4-4-4zm0 6c-1.1 0-2-.9-2-2s.9-2 2-2 2 .9 2 2-.9 2-2 2z"/>
-</svg>

bec_widgets/cli/__init__.py

@@ -1 +0,0 @@
-from .client import *

bec_widgets/cli/auto_updates.py

@@ -1,153 +0,0 @@
-from __future__ import annotations
-
-from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
-
-from pydantic import BaseModel
-
-if TYPE_CHECKING:
-    from .client import BECDockArea, BECFigure
-
-
-class ScanInfo(BaseModel):
-    scan_id: str
-    scan_number: int
-    scan_name: str
-    scan_report_devices: list
-    monitored_devices: list
-    status: str
-    model_config: dict = {"validate_assignment": True}
-
-
-class AutoUpdates:
-    create_default_dock: bool = False
-    enabled: bool = False
-    dock_name: str = None
-
-    def __init__(self, gui: BECDockArea):
-        self.gui = gui
-
-    def start_default_dock(self):
-        """
-        Create a default dock for the auto updates.
-        """
-        dock = self.gui.add_dock("default_figure")
-        dock.add_widget("BECFigure")
-        self.dock_name = "default_figure"
-
-    @staticmethod
-    def get_scan_info(msg) -> ScanInfo:
-        """
-        Update the script with the given data.
-        """
-        info = msg.info
-        status = msg.status
-        scan_id = msg.scan_id
-        scan_number = info.get("scan_number", 0)
-        scan_name = info.get("scan_name", "Unknown")
-        scan_report_devices = info.get("scan_report_devices", [])
-        monitored_devices = info.get("readout_priority", {}).get("monitored", [])
-        monitored_devices = [dev for dev in monitored_devices if dev not in scan_report_devices]
-        return ScanInfo(
-            scan_id=scan_id,
-            scan_number=scan_number,
-            scan_name=scan_name,
-            scan_report_devices=scan_report_devices,
-            monitored_devices=monitored_devices,
-            status=status,
-        )
-
-    def get_default_figure(self) -> BECFigure | None:
-        """
-        Get the default figure from the GUI.
-        """
-        dock = self.gui.panels.get(self.dock_name, [])
-        if not dock:
-            return None
-        widgets = dock.widget_list
-        if not widgets:
-            return None
-        return widgets[0]
-
-    def run(self, msg):
-        """
-        Run the update function if enabled.
-        """
-        if not self.enabled:
-            return
-        if msg.status != "open":
-            return
-        info = self.get_scan_info(msg)
-        self.handler(info)
-
-    @staticmethod
-    def get_selected_device(monitored_devices, selected_device):
-        """
-        Get the selected device for the plot. If no device is selected, the first
-        device in the monitored devices list is selected.
-        """
-        if selected_device:
-            return selected_device
-        if len(monitored_devices) > 0:
-            sel_device = monitored_devices[0]
-            return sel_device
-        return None
-
-    def handler(self, info: ScanInfo) -> None:
-        """
-        Default update function.
-        """
-        if info.scan_name == "line_scan" and info.scan_report_devices:
-            self.simple_line_scan(info)
-            return
-        if info.scan_name == "grid_scan" and info.scan_report_devices:
-            self.simple_grid_scan(info)
-            return
-        if info.scan_report_devices:
-            self.best_effort(info)
-            return
-
-    def simple_line_scan(self, info: ScanInfo) -> None:
-        """
-        Simple line scan.
-        """
-        fig = self.get_default_figure()
-        if not fig:
-            return
-        dev_x = info.scan_report_devices[0]
-        dev_y = self.get_selected_device(info.monitored_devices, self.gui.selected_device)
-        if not dev_y:
-            return
-        fig.clear_all()
-        plt = fig.plot(x_name=dev_x, y_name=dev_y, label=f"Scan {info.scan_number} - {dev_y}")
-        plt.set(title=f"Scan {info.scan_number}", x_label=dev_x, y_label=dev_y)
-
-    def simple_grid_scan(self, info: ScanInfo) -> None:
-        """
-        Simple grid scan.
-        """
-        fig = self.get_default_figure()
-        if not fig:
-            return
-        dev_x = info.scan_report_devices[0]
-        dev_y = info.scan_report_devices[1]
-        dev_z = self.get_selected_device(info.monitored_devices, self.gui.selected_device)
-        fig.clear_all()
-        plt = fig.plot(
-            x_name=dev_x, y_name=dev_y, z_name=dev_z, label=f"Scan {info.scan_number} - {dev_z}"
-        )
-        plt.set(title=f"Scan {info.scan_number}", x_label=dev_x, y_label=dev_y)
-
-    def best_effort(self, info: ScanInfo) -> None:
-        """
-        Best effort scan.
-        """
-        fig = self.get_default_figure()
-        if not fig:
-            return
-        dev_x = info.scan_report_devices[0]
-        dev_y = self.get_selected_device(info.monitored_devices, self.gui.selected_device)
-        if not dev_y:
-            return
-        fig.clear_all()
-        plt = fig.plot(x_name=dev_x, y_name=dev_y, label=f"Scan {info.scan_number} - {dev_y}")
-        plt.set(title=f"Scan {info.scan_number}", x_label=dev_x, y_label=dev_y)

bec_widgets/cli/client_utils.py

@@ -1,70 +1,53 @@
+"""Client utilities for the BEC GUI."""
+
 from __future__ import annotations
 
-import importlib
-import importlib.metadata as imd
 import json
 import os
 import select
 import subprocess
-import sys
 import threading
 import time
-import uuid
-from functools import wraps
-from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
+from contextlib import contextmanager
+from threading import Lock
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Literal, TypeAlias, cast
 
 from bec_lib.endpoints import MessageEndpoints
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
-from bec_lib.utils.import_utils import isinstance_based_on_class_name, lazy_import, lazy_import_from
-from qtpy.QtCore import QEventLoop, QSocketNotifier, QTimer
+from bec_lib.utils.import_utils import lazy_import_from
+from rich.console import Console
+from rich.table import Table
 
 import bec_widgets.cli.client as client
-from bec_widgets.cli.auto_updates import AutoUpdates
+from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_base import RPCBase, RPCReference
+from bec_widgets.utils.serialization import register_serializer_extension
 
-if TYPE_CHECKING:
-    from bec_lib.device import DeviceBase
-
-    from bec_widgets.cli.client import BECDockArea, BECFigure
-
-from bec_lib.serialization import MsgpackSerialization
-
-messages = lazy_import("bec_lib.messages")
-# from bec_lib.connector import MessageObject
-MessageObject = lazy_import_from("bec_lib.connector", ("MessageObject",))
-BECDispatcher = lazy_import_from("bec_widgets.utils.bec_dispatcher", ("BECDispatcher",))
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_lib.messages import GUIRegistryStateMessage
+else:
+    GUIRegistryStateMessage = lazy_import_from("bec_lib.messages", "GUIRegistryStateMessage")
 
 logger = bec_logger.logger
 
+IGNORE_WIDGETS = ["LaunchWindow"]
 
-def rpc_call(func):
+RegistryState: TypeAlias = dict[
+    Literal["gui_id", "name", "widget_class", "config", "__rpc__", "container_proxy"],
+    str | bool | dict,
+]
+
+# pylint: disable=redefined-outer-scope
+
+
+def _filter_output(output: str) -> str:
     """
-    A decorator for calling a function on the server.
-
-    Args:
-        func: The function to call.
-
-    Returns:
-        The result of the function call.
+    Filter out the output from the process.
     """
-
-    @wraps(func)
-    def wrapper(self, *args, **kwargs):
-        # we could rely on a strict type check here, but this is more flexible
-        # moreover, it would anyway crash for objects...
-        out = []
-        for arg in args:
-            if hasattr(arg, "name"):
-                arg = arg.name
-            out.append(arg)
-        args = tuple(out)
-        for key, val in kwargs.items():
-            if hasattr(val, "name"):
-                kwargs[key] = val.name
-        if not self.gui_is_alive():
-            raise RuntimeError("GUI is not alive")
-        return self._run_rpc(func.__name__, *args, **kwargs)
-
-    return wrapper
+    if "IMKClient" in output:
+        # only relevant on macOS
+        # see https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255761734?sortBy=rank
+        return ""
+    return output
 
 
 def _get_output(process, logger) -> None:
@@ -80,15 +63,22 @@ def _get_output(process, logger) -> None:
                 if stream in readylist:
                     buf.append(stream.read(4096))
                 output, _, remaining = "".join(buf).rpartition("\n")
+                output = _filter_output(output)
                 if output:
                     log_func[stream](output)
                     buf.clear()
                     buf.append(remaining)
     except Exception as e:
-        print(f"Error reading process output: {str(e)}")
+        logger.error(f"Error reading process output: {str(e)}")
 
 
-def _start_plot_process(gui_id: str, gui_class: type, config: dict | str, logger=None) -> None:
+def _start_plot_process(
+    gui_id: str,
+    gui_class_id: str,
+    config: dict | str,
+    gui_class: str = "dock_area",
+    logger=None,  # FIXME change gui_class back to "launcher" later
+) -> tuple[subprocess.Popen[str], threading.Thread | None]:
     """
     Start the plot in a new process.
 
@@ -97,14 +87,24 @@ def _start_plot_process(gui_id: str, gui_class: type, config: dict | str, logger
     process will not be captured.
     """
     # pylint: disable=subprocess-run-check
-    command = ["bec-gui-server", "--id", gui_id, "--gui_class", gui_class.__name__]
+    command = [
+        "bec-gui-server",
+        "--id",
+        gui_id,
+        "--gui_class",
+        gui_class,
+        "--gui_class_id",
+        gui_class_id,
+        "--hide",
+    ]
     if config:
         if isinstance(config, dict):
             config = json.dumps(config)
-        command.extend(["--config", config])
+        command.extend(["--config", str(config)])
 
     env_dict = os.environ.copy()
     env_dict["PYTHONUNBUFFERED"] = "1"
+
     if logger is None:
         stdout_redirect = subprocess.DEVNULL
         stderr_redirect = subprocess.DEVNULL
@@ -130,233 +130,402 @@ def _start_plot_process(gui_id: str, gui_class: type, config: dict | str, logger
     return process, process_output_processing_thread
 
 
-class BECGuiClientMixin:
+class RepeatTimer(threading.Timer):
+    """RepeatTimer class."""
+
+    def run(self):
+        while not self.finished.wait(self.interval):
+            self.function(*self.args, **self.kwargs)
+
+
+# pylint: disable=protected-access
+@contextmanager
+def wait_for_server(client: BECGuiClient):
+    """Context manager to wait for the server to start."""
+    timeout = client._startup_timeout
+    if not timeout:
+        if client._gui_is_alive():
+            # there is hope, let's wait a bit
+            timeout = 1
+        else:
+            raise RuntimeError("GUI is not alive")
+    try:
+        if client._gui_started_event.wait(timeout=timeout):
+            client._gui_started_timer.cancel()
+            client._gui_started_timer.join()
+        else:
+            raise TimeoutError("Could not connect to GUI server")
+    finally:
+        # after initial waiting period, do not wait so much any more
+        # (only relevant if GUI didn't start)
+        client._startup_timeout = 0
+    yield
+
+
+class WidgetNameSpace:
+    def __repr__(self):
+        console = Console()
+        table = Table(title="Available widgets for BEC CLI usage")
+        table.add_column("Widget Name", justify="left", style="magenta")
+        table.add_column("Description", justify="left")
+        for attr, value in self.__dict__.items():
+            docs = value.__doc__
+            docs = docs if docs else "No description available"
+            table.add_row(attr, docs)
+        console.print(table)
+        return ""
+
+
+class AvailableWidgetsNamespace:
+    """Namespace for available widgets in the BEC GUI."""
+
+    def __init__(self):
+        for widget in client.Widgets:
+            name = widget.value
+            if name in IGNORE_WIDGETS:
+                continue
+            setattr(self, name, name)
+
+    def __repr__(self):
+        console = Console()
+        table = Table(title="Available widgets for BEC CLI usage")
+        table.add_column("Widget Name", justify="left", style="magenta")
+        table.add_column("Description", justify="left")
+        for attr_name, _ in self.__dict__.items():
+            docs = getattr(client, attr_name).__doc__
+            docs = docs if docs else "No description available"
+            table.add_row(attr_name, docs if len(docs.strip()) > 0 else "No description available")
+        console.print(table)
+        return ""
+
+
+class BECGuiClient(RPCBase):
+    """BEC GUI client class. Container for GUI applications within Python."""
+
     def __init__(self, **kwargs) -> None:
         super().__init__(**kwargs)
+        self._lock = Lock()
+        self._anchor_widget = "launcher"
+        self._killed = False
+        self._top_level: dict[str, RPCReference] = {}
+        self._startup_timeout = 0
+        self._gui_started_timer = None
+        self._gui_started_event = threading.Event()
         self._process = None
         self._process_output_processing_thread = None
-        self.auto_updates = self._get_update_script()
-        self._target_endpoint = MessageEndpoints.scan_status()
-        self._selected_device = None
+        self._server_registry: dict[str, RegistryState] = {}
+        self._ipython_registry: dict[str, RPCReference] = {}
+        self.available_widgets = AvailableWidgetsNamespace()
+        register_serializer_extension()
 
-    def _get_update_script(self) -> AutoUpdates | None:
-        eps = imd.entry_points(group="bec.widgets.auto_updates")
-        for ep in eps:
-            if ep.name == "plugin_widgets_update":
-                try:
-                    spec = importlib.util.find_spec(ep.module)
-                    # if the module is not found, we skip it
-                    if spec is None:
-                        continue
-                    return ep.load()(gui=self)
-                except Exception as e:
-                    print(f"Error loading auto update script from plugin: {str(e)}")
-        return None
+    ####################
+    #### Client API ####
+    ####################
 
     @property
-    def selected_device(self):
-        """
-        Selected device for the plot.
-        """
-        return self._selected_device
+    def launcher(self) -> RPCBase:
+        """The launcher object."""
+        return RPCBase(gui_id=f"{self._gui_id}:launcher", parent=self, object_name="launcher")
 
-    @selected_device.setter
-    def selected_device(self, device: str | DeviceBase):
-        if isinstance_based_on_class_name(device, "bec_lib.device.DeviceBase"):
-            self._selected_device = device.name
-        elif isinstance(device, str):
-            self._selected_device = device
-        else:
-            raise ValueError("Device must be a string or a device object")
+    def connect_to_gui_server(self, gui_id: str) -> None:
+        """Connect to a GUI server"""
+        # Unregister the old callback
+        self._client.connector.unregister(
+            MessageEndpoints.gui_registry_state(self._gui_id), cb=self._handle_registry_update
+        )
+        self._gui_id = gui_id
 
-    def _start_update_script(self) -> None:
+        # reset the namespace
+        self._update_dynamic_namespace({})
+        self._server_registry = {}
+        self._top_level = {}
+        self._ipython_registry = {}
+
+        # Register the new callback
         self._client.connector.register(
-            self._target_endpoint, cb=self._handle_msg_update, parent=self
+            MessageEndpoints.gui_registry_state(self._gui_id),
+            cb=self._handle_registry_update,
+            parent=self,
+            from_start=True,
         )
 
-    @staticmethod
-    def _handle_msg_update(msg: MessageObject, parent: BECGuiClientMixin) -> None:
-        if parent.auto_updates is not None:
-            # pylint: disable=protected-access
-            parent._update_script_msg_parser(msg.value)
+    @property
+    def windows(self) -> dict:
+        """Dictionary with dock areas in the GUI."""
+        return {widget.object_name: widget for widget in self._top_level.values()}
 
-    def _update_script_msg_parser(self, msg: messages.BECMessage) -> None:
-        if isinstance(msg, messages.ScanStatusMessage):
-            if not self.gui_is_alive():
-                return
-            self.auto_updates.run(msg)
+    @property
+    def window_list(self) -> list:
+        """List with dock areas in the GUI."""
+        return list(self._top_level.values())
 
-    def show(self) -> None:
-        """
-        Show the figure.
-        """
-        if self._process is None or self._process.poll() is not None:
-            self._start_update_script()
-            self._process, self._process_output_processing_thread = _start_plot_process(
-                self._gui_id, self.__class__, self._client._service_config.config
-            )
-        while not self.gui_is_alive():
-            print("Waiting for GUI to start...")
-            time.sleep(1)
+    def start(self, wait: bool = False) -> None:
+        """Start the GUI server."""
+        return self._start(wait=wait)
 
-    def close(self) -> None:
+    def show(self):
+        """Show the GUI window."""
+        if self._check_if_server_is_alive():
+            return self._show_all()
+        return self.start(wait=True)
+
+    def hide(self):
+        """Hide the GUI window."""
+        return self._hide_all()
+
+    def new(
+        self,
+        name: str | None = None,
+        wait: bool = True,
+        geometry: tuple[int, int, int, int] | None = None,
+        launch_script: str = "dock_area",
+        **kwargs,
+    ) -> client.BECDockArea:
+        """Create a new top-level dock area.
+
+        Args:
+            name(str, optional): The name of the dock area. Defaults to None.
+            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)
+        Returns:
+            client.BECDockArea: The new dock area.
         """
-        Close the gui window.
+        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, name=name, geometry=geometry, **kwargs
+                )  # pylint: disable=protected-access
+                return widget
+        widget = self.launcher._run_rpc(
+            "launch", launch_script=launch_script, name=name, geometry=geometry, **kwargs
+        )  # pylint: disable=protected-access
+        return widget
+
+    def delete(self, name: str) -> None:
+        """Delete a dock area.
+
+        Args:
+            name(str): The name of the dock area.
         """
+        widget = self.windows.get(name)
+        if widget is None:
+            raise ValueError(f"Dock area {name} not found.")
+        widget._run_rpc("close")  # pylint: disable=protected-access
+
+    def delete_all(self) -> None:
+        """Delete all dock areas."""
+        for widget_name in self.windows:
+            self.delete(widget_name)
+
+    def kill_server(self) -> None:
+        """Kill the GUI server."""
+        # Unregister the registry state
+        self._killed = True
+
+        if self._gui_started_timer is not None:
+            self._gui_started_timer.cancel()
+            self._gui_started_timer.join()
+
         if self._process is None:
             return
 
-        self._client.shutdown()
         if self._process:
+            logger.success("Stopping GUI...")
             self._process.terminate()
             if self._process_output_processing_thread:
                 self._process_output_processing_thread.join()
             self._process.wait()
             self._process = None
 
-
-class RPCResponseTimeoutError(Exception):
-    """Exception raised when an RPC response is not received within the expected time."""
-
-    def __init__(self, request_id, timeout):
-        super().__init__(
-            f"RPC response not received within {timeout} seconds for request ID {request_id}"
+        # Unregister the registry state
+        self._client.connector.unregister(
+            MessageEndpoints.gui_registry_state(self._gui_id), cb=self._handle_registry_update
         )
+        # Remove all reference from top level
+        self._top_level.clear()
+        self._server_registry.clear()
 
+    def close(self):
+        """Deprecated. Use kill_server() instead."""
+        # FIXME, deprecated in favor of kill, will be removed in the future
+        self.kill_server()
 
-class QtRedisMessageWaiter:
-    def __init__(self, redis_connector, message_to_wait):
-        self.ev_loop = QEventLoop()
-        self.response = None
-        self.connector = redis_connector
-        self.message_to_wait = message_to_wait
-        self.pubsub = redis_connector._redis_conn.pubsub()
-        self.pubsub.subscribe(self.message_to_wait.endpoint)
-        fd = self.pubsub.connection._sock.fileno()
-        self.notifier = QSocketNotifier(fd, QSocketNotifier.Read)
-        self.notifier.activated.connect(self._pubsub_readable)
+    #########################
+    #### Private methods ####
+    #########################
 
-    def _msg_received(self, msg_obj):
-        self.response = msg_obj.value
-        self.ev_loop.quit()
+    def _check_if_server_is_alive(self):
+        """Checks if the process is alive"""
+        if self._process is None:
+            return False
+        if self._process.poll() is not None:
+            return False
+        return True
 
-    def wait(self, timeout=1):
-        timer = QTimer()
-        timer.singleShot(timeout * 1000, self.ev_loop.quit)
-        self.ev_loop.exec_()
-        timer.stop()
-        self.notifier.setEnabled(False)
-        self.pubsub.close()
-        return self.response
-
-    def _pubsub_readable(self, fd):
-        while True:
-            msg = self.pubsub.get_message()
-            if msg:
-                if msg["type"] == "subscribe":
-                    # get_message buffers, so we may already have the answer
-                    # let's check...
-                    continue
-                else:
-                    break
+    def _gui_post_startup(self):
+        timeout = 60
+        # Wait for 'bec' gui to be registered, this may take some time
+        # After 60s timeout. Should this raise an exception on timeout?
+        while time.time() < time.time() + timeout:
+            if len(list(self._server_registry.keys())) < 2 or not hasattr(
+                self, self._anchor_widget
+            ):
+                time.sleep(0.1)
             else:
-                return
-        channel = msg["channel"].decode()
-        msg = MessageObject(topic=channel, value=MsgpackSerialization.loads(msg["data"]))
-        self.connector._execute_callback(self._msg_received, msg, {})
+                break
 
+        self._gui_started_event.set()
 
-class RPCBase:
-    def __init__(self, gui_id: str = None, config: dict = None, parent=None) -> None:
-        self._client = BECDispatcher().client
-        self._config = config if config is not None else {}
-        self._gui_id = gui_id if gui_id is not None else str(uuid.uuid4())
-        self._parent = parent
-        super().__init__()
-        # print(f"RPCBase: {self._gui_id}")
-
-    def __repr__(self):
-        type_ = type(self)
-        qualname = type_.__qualname__
-        return f"<{qualname} object at {hex(id(self))}>"
-
-    @property
-    def _root(self):
+    def _start_server(self, wait: bool = False) -> None:
         """
-        Get the root widget. This is the BECFigure widget that holds
-        the anchor gui_id.
+        Start the GUI server, and execute callback when it is launched
         """
-        parent = self
-        # pylint: disable=protected-access
-        while parent._parent is not None:
-            parent = parent._parent
-        return parent
-
-    def _run_rpc(self, method, *args, wait_for_rpc_response=True, timeout=3, **kwargs):
-        """
-        Run the RPC call.
-
-        Args:
-            method: The method to call.
-            args: The arguments to pass to the method.
-            wait_for_rpc_response: Whether to wait for the RPC response.
-            kwargs: The keyword arguments to pass to the method.
-
-        Returns:
-            The result of the RPC call.
-        """
-        request_id = str(uuid.uuid4())
-        rpc_msg = messages.GUIInstructionMessage(
-            action=method,
-            parameter={"args": args, "kwargs": kwargs, "gui_id": self._gui_id},
-            metadata={"request_id": request_id},
-        )
-
-        # pylint: disable=protected-access
-        receiver = self._root._gui_id
-        if wait_for_rpc_response:
-            redis_msg = QtRedisMessageWaiter(
-                self._client.connector, MessageEndpoints.gui_instruction_response(request_id)
+        if self._process is None or self._process.poll() is not None:
+            logger.success("GUI starting...")
+            self._startup_timeout = 5
+            self._gui_started_event.clear()
+            self._process, self._process_output_processing_thread = _start_plot_process(
+                self._gui_id,
+                gui_class_id="bec",
+                config=self._client._service_config.config,  # pylint: disable=protected-access
+                logger=logger,
             )
 
-        self._client.connector.set_and_publish(MessageEndpoints.gui_instructions(receiver), rpc_msg)
+            def gui_started_callback(callback):
+                try:
+                    if callable(callback):
+                        callback()
+                finally:
+                    threading.current_thread().cancel()  # type: ignore
 
-        if wait_for_rpc_response:
-            response = redis_msg.wait(timeout)
+            self._gui_started_timer = RepeatTimer(
+                0.5, lambda: self._gui_is_alive() and gui_started_callback(self._gui_post_startup)
+            )
+            self._gui_started_timer.start()
 
-            if response is None:
-                raise RPCResponseTimeoutError(request_id, timeout)
+        if wait:
+            self._gui_started_event.wait()
 
-            # get class name
-            if not response.accepted:
-                raise ValueError(response.message["error"])
-            msg_result = response.message.get("result")
-            return self._create_widget_from_msg_result(msg_result)
+    def _start(self, wait: bool = False) -> None:
+        self._killed = False
+        self._client.connector.register(
+            MessageEndpoints.gui_registry_state(self._gui_id),
+            cb=self._handle_registry_update,
+            parent=self,
+        )
+        return self._start_server(wait=wait)
 
-    def _create_widget_from_msg_result(self, msg_result):
-        if msg_result is None:
-            return None
-        if isinstance(msg_result, list):
-            return [self._create_widget_from_msg_result(res) for res in msg_result]
-        if isinstance(msg_result, dict):
-            if "__rpc__" not in msg_result:
-                return {
-                    key: self._create_widget_from_msg_result(val) for key, val in msg_result.items()
-                }
-            cls = msg_result.pop("widget_class", None)
-            msg_result.pop("__rpc__", None)
+    @staticmethod
+    def _handle_registry_update(
+        msg: dict[str, GUIRegistryStateMessage], parent: BECGuiClient
+    ) -> None:
+        # This was causing a deadlock during shutdown, not sure why.
+        # with self._lock:
+        self = parent
+        self._server_registry = cast(dict[str, RegistryState], msg["data"].state)
+        self._update_dynamic_namespace(self._server_registry)
 
-            if not cls:
-                return msg_result
+    def _do_show_all(self):
+        rpc_client = RPCBase(gui_id=f"{self._gui_id}:launcher", parent=self)
+        rpc_client._run_rpc("show")  # pylint: disable=protected-access
+        for window in self._top_level.values():
+            window.show()
 
-            cls = getattr(client, cls)
-            # print(msg_result)
-            return cls(parent=self, **msg_result)
-        return msg_result
+    def _show_all(self):
+        with wait_for_server(self):
+            return self._do_show_all()
 
-    def gui_is_alive(self):
+    def _hide_all(self):
+        with wait_for_server(self):
+            rpc_client = RPCBase(gui_id=f"{self._gui_id}:launcher", parent=self)
+            rpc_client._run_rpc("hide")  # pylint: disable=protected-access
+            if not self._killed:
+                for window in self._top_level.values():
+                    window.hide()
+
+    def _update_dynamic_namespace(self, server_registry: dict):
         """
-        Check if the GUI is alive.
+        Update the dynamic name space with the given server registry.
+        Setting the server registry to an empty dictionary will remove all widgets from the namespace.
+
+        Args:
+            server_registry (dict): The server registry
         """
-        heart = self._client.connector.get(MessageEndpoints.gui_heartbeat(self._root._gui_id))
-        return heart is not None
+        top_level_widgets: dict[str, RPCReference] = {}
+        for gui_id, state in server_registry.items():
+            widget = self._add_widget(state, self)
+            if widget is None:
+                # ignore widgets that are not supported
+                continue
+            # get all top-level widgets. These are widgets that have no parent
+            if not state["config"].get("parent_id"):
+                top_level_widgets[gui_id] = widget
+
+        remove_from_registry = []
+        for gui_id, widget in self._ipython_registry.items():
+            if gui_id not in server_registry:
+                remove_from_registry.append(gui_id)
+        for gui_id in remove_from_registry:
+            self._ipython_registry.pop(gui_id)
+
+        removed_widgets = [
+            widget.object_name for widget in self._top_level.values() if widget._is_deleted()
+        ]
+
+        for widget_name in removed_widgets:
+            # the check is not strictly necessary, but better safe
+            # than sorry; who knows what the user has done
+            if hasattr(self, widget_name):
+                delattr(self, widget_name)
+
+        for gui_id, widget_ref in top_level_widgets.items():
+            setattr(self, widget_ref.object_name, widget_ref)
+
+        self._top_level = top_level_widgets
+
+        for widget in self._ipython_registry.values():
+            widget._refresh_references()
+
+    def _add_widget(self, state: dict, parent: object) -> RPCReference | None:
+        """Add a widget to the namespace
+
+        Args:
+            state (dict): The state of the widget from the _server_registry.
+            parent (object): The parent object.
+        """
+        object_name = state["object_name"]
+        gui_id = state["gui_id"]
+        if state["widget_class"] in IGNORE_WIDGETS:
+            return
+        widget_class = getattr(client, state["widget_class"], None)
+        if widget_class is None:
+            return
+        obj = self._ipython_registry.get(gui_id)
+        if obj is None:
+            widget = widget_class(gui_id=gui_id, object_name=object_name, parent=parent)
+            self._ipython_registry[gui_id] = widget
+        else:
+            widget = obj
+        obj = RPCReference(registry=self._ipython_registry, gui_id=gui_id)
+        return obj
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_lib.client import BECClient
+    from bec_lib.service_config import ServiceConfig
+
+    try:
+        config = ServiceConfig()
+        bec_client = BECClient(config)
+        bec_client.start()
+
+        # Test the client_utils.py module
+        gui = BECGuiClient()
+
+        gui.start(wait=True)
+        gui.new().new(widget="Waveform")
+        time.sleep(10)
+    finally:
+        gui.kill_server()

bec_widgets/cli/generate_cli.py

@@ -2,15 +2,21 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
 import argparse
+import importlib
 import inspect
 import os
 import sys
+from pathlib import Path
 
 import black
 import isort
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import Property as QtProperty
 
-from bec_widgets.utils.generate_designer_plugin import DesignerPluginGenerator
-from bec_widgets.utils.plugin_utils import BECClassContainer, get_rpc_classes
+from bec_widgets.utils.generate_designer_plugin import DesignerPluginGenerator, plugin_filenames
+from bec_widgets.utils.plugin_utils import BECClassContainer, get_custom_classes
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
 
 if sys.version_info >= (3, 11):
     from typing import get_overloads
@@ -28,12 +34,29 @@ else:
 
 
 class ClientGenerator:
-    def __init__(self):
-        self.header = """# This file was automatically generated by generate_cli.py\n
-import enum
-from typing import Literal, Optional, overload
+    def __init__(self, base=False):
+        self._base = base
+        base_imports = (
+            """import enum
+import inspect
+import traceback
+from functools import reduce
+from operator import add
+from typing import Literal, Optional
+"""
+            if self._base
+            else "\n"
+        )
+        self.header = f"""# This file was automatically generated by generate_cli.py
+# type: ignore \n
+from __future__ import annotations
+{base_imports}
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 
-from bec_widgets.cli.client_utils import RPCBase, rpc_call, BECGuiClientMixin
+from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_base import RPCBase, rpc_call
+{"from bec_widgets.utils.bec_plugin_helper import get_all_plugin_widgets, get_plugin_client_module" if self._base else ""}
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
 
 # pylint: skip-file"""
 
@@ -41,18 +64,26 @@ from bec_widgets.cli.client_utils import RPCBase, rpc_call, BECGuiClientMixin
 
     def generate_client(self, class_container: BECClassContainer):
         """
-        Generate the client for the published classes.
+        Generate the client for the published classes, skipping any classes
+        that have `RPC = False`.
 
         Args:
             class_container: The class container with the classes to generate the client for.
         """
-        rpc_top_level_classes = class_container.rpc_top_level_classes
+        # Filter out classes that explicitly have RPC=False
+        rpc_top_level_classes = [
+            cls for cls in class_container.rpc_top_level_classes if getattr(cls, "RPC", True)
+        ]
         rpc_top_level_classes.sort(key=lambda x: x.__name__)
-        connector_classes = class_container.connector_classes
+
+        connector_classes = [
+            cls for cls in class_container.connector_classes if getattr(cls, "RPC", True)
+        ]
         connector_classes.sort(key=lambda x: x.__name__)
 
         self.write_client_enum(rpc_top_level_classes)
         for cls in connector_classes:
+            logger.debug(f"generating RPC client class for {cls.__name__}")
             self.content += "\n\n"
             self.generate_content_for_class(cls)
 
@@ -60,14 +91,50 @@ from bec_widgets.cli.client_utils import RPCBase, rpc_call, BECGuiClientMixin
         """
         Write the client enum to the content.
         """
+        if self._base:
+            self.content += """
+class _WidgetsEnumType(str, enum.Enum):
+    \"\"\" Enum for the available widgets, to be generated programatically  \"\"\"
+    ...
+    """
+
         self.content += """
-class Widgets(str, enum.Enum):
-    \"\"\"
-    Enum for the available widgets.
-    \"\"\"
+
+_Widgets = {
     """
         for cls in published_classes:
-            self.content += f'{cls.__name__} = "{cls.__name__}"\n    '
+            self.content += f'"{cls.__name__}": "{cls.__name__}",\n    '
+
+        self.content += """}
+"""
+        if self._base:
+            self.content += """
+
+try:
+    _plugin_widgets = get_all_plugin_widgets()
+    plugin_client = get_plugin_client_module()
+    Widgets = _WidgetsEnumType("Widgets", {name: name for name in _plugin_widgets} | _Widgets)
+
+    if (_overlap := _Widgets.keys() & _plugin_widgets.keys()) != set():
+        for _widget in _overlap:
+            logger.warning(f"Detected duplicate widget {_widget} in plugin repo file: {inspect.getfile(_plugin_widgets[_widget])} !")
+    for plugin_name, plugin_class in inspect.getmembers(plugin_client, inspect.isclass):
+        if issubclass(plugin_class, RPCBase) and plugin_class is not RPCBase:
+            if plugin_name in globals():
+                conflicting_file = (
+                    inspect.getfile(_plugin_widgets[plugin_name])
+                    if plugin_name in _plugin_widgets
+                    else f"{plugin_client}"
+                )
+                logger.warning(
+                    f"Plugin widget {plugin_name} from {conflicting_file} conflicts with a built-in class!"
+                )
+                continue
+            if plugin_name not in _overlap:
+                globals()[plugin_name] = plugin_class
+except ImportError as e:
+    logger.error(f"Failed loading plugins: \\n{reduce(add, traceback.format_exception(e))}")
+"""
 
     def generate_content_for_class(self, cls):
         """
@@ -79,22 +146,52 @@ class Widgets(str, enum.Enum):
 
         class_name = cls.__name__
 
-        # Generate the content
-        if cls.__name__ == "BECDockArea":
+        if class_name == "BECDockArea":
             self.content += f"""
-class {class_name}(RPCBase, BECGuiClientMixin):"""
+class {class_name}(RPCBase):"""
         else:
             self.content += f"""
 class {class_name}(RPCBase):"""
+
+        if cls.__doc__:
+            # We only want the first line of the docstring
+            # But skip the first line if it's a blank line
+            first_line = cls.__doc__.split("\n")[0]
+            if first_line:
+                class_docs = first_line
+            else:
+                class_docs = cls.__doc__.split("\n")[1]
+            self.content += f"""
+    \"\"\"{class_docs}\"\"\"
+    """
         if not cls.USER_ACCESS:
             self.content += """...
     """
+
         for method in cls.USER_ACCESS:
-            obj = getattr(cls, method)
-            if isinstance(obj, property):
-                self.content += """
+            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]
+            if obj is None:
+                raise AttributeError(
+                    f"Method {method} not found in class {cls.__name__}. "
+                    f"Please check the USER_ACCESS list."
+                )
+
+            if isinstance(obj, (property, QtProperty)):
+                # for the cli, we can map qt properties to regular properties
+                if is_property_setter:
+                    self.content += f"""
+    @{method}.setter
+    @rpc_call"""
+                else:
+                    self.content += """
     @property
     @rpc_call"""
+
                 sig = str(inspect.signature(obj.fget))
                 doc = inspect.getdoc(obj.fget)
             else:
@@ -126,18 +223,18 @@ class {class_name}(RPCBase):"""
         # Combine header and content, then format with black
         full_content = self.header + "\n" + self.content
         try:
-            formatted_content = black.format_str(full_content, mode=black.FileMode(line_length=100))
+            formatted_content = black.format_str(full_content, mode=black.Mode(line_length=100))
         except black.NothingChanged:
             formatted_content = full_content
 
-        isort.Config(
+        config = isort.Config(
             profile="black",
             line_length=100,
             multi_line_output=3,
-            include_trailing_comma=True,
+            include_trailing_comma=False,
             known_first_party=["bec_widgets"],
         )
-        formatted_content = isort.code(formatted_content)
+        formatted_content = isort.code(formatted_content, config=config)
 
         with open(file_name, "w", encoding="utf-8") as file:
             file.write(formatted_content)
@@ -149,41 +246,78 @@ def main():
     """
 
     parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="Auto-generate the client for RPC widgets")
-    parser.add_argument("--core", action="store_true", help="Whether to generate the core client")
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--target",
+        action="store",
+        type=str,
+        help="Which package to generate plugin files for. Should be installed in the local environment (example: my_plugin_repo)",
+    )
 
     args = parser.parse_args()
+    if args.target is None:
+        logger.error(
+            "You must provide a target - for safety, the default of running this on bec_widgets core has been removed. To generate the client for bec_widgets, run `bw-generate-cli --target bec_widgets`"
+        )
+        return
 
-    if args.core:
-        current_path = os.path.dirname(__file__)
-        client_path = os.path.join(current_path, "client.py")
+    logger.info(f"BEC Widget code generation tool started with args: {args}")
 
-        rpc_classes = get_rpc_classes("bec_widgets")
+    client_subdir = "cli" if args.target == "bec_widgets" else "widgets"
+    module_name = "bec_widgets" if args.target == "bec_widgets" else f"{args.target}.bec_widgets"
 
-        generator = ClientGenerator()
-        generator.generate_client(rpc_classes)
-        generator.write(client_path)
+    try:
+        module = importlib.import_module(module_name)
+        assert module.__file__ is not None
+        module_file = Path(module.__file__)
+        module_dir = module_file.parent if module_file.is_file() else module_file
+    except Exception as e:
+        logger.error(f"Failed to load module {module_name} for code generation: {e}")
+        return
 
-        for cls in rpc_classes.plugins:
-            plugin = DesignerPluginGenerator(cls)
-            if not hasattr(plugin, "info"):
-                continue
+    client_path = module_dir / client_subdir / "client.py"
 
-            # if the class directory already has a register, plugin and pyproject file, skip
-            if os.path.exists(
-                os.path.join(plugin.info.base_path, f"register_{plugin.info.plugin_name_snake}.py")
-            ):
-                continue
-            if os.path.exists(
-                os.path.join(plugin.info.base_path, f"{plugin.info.plugin_name_snake}_plugin.py")
-            ):
-                continue
-            if os.path.exists(
-                os.path.join(plugin.info.base_path, f"{plugin.info.plugin_name_snake}.pyproject")
-            ):
-                continue
-            plugin.run()
+    rpc_classes = get_custom_classes(module_name)
+    logger.info(f"Obtained classes with RPC objects: {rpc_classes!r}")
+
+    generator = ClientGenerator(base=module_name == "bec_widgets")
+    logger.info(f"Generating client file at {client_path}")
+    generator.generate_client(rpc_classes)
+    generator.write(str(client_path))
+
+    if module_name != "bec_widgets":
+        non_overwrite_classes = list(clsinfo.name for clsinfo in get_custom_classes("bec_widgets"))
+        logger.info(
+            f"Not writing plugins which would conflict with builtin classes: {non_overwrite_classes}"
+        )
+    else:
+        non_overwrite_classes = []
+
+    for cls in rpc_classes.plugins:
+        logger.info(f"Writing bec-designer plugin files for {cls.__name__}...")
+
+        if cls.__name__ in non_overwrite_classes:
+            logger.error(
+                f"Not writing plugin files for {cls.__name__} because a built-in widget with that name exists"
+            )
+
+        plugin = DesignerPluginGenerator(cls)
+        if not hasattr(plugin, "info"):
+            continue
+
+        def _exists(file: str):
+            return os.path.exists(os.path.join(plugin.info.base_path, file))
+
+        if any(_exists(file) for file in plugin_filenames(plugin.info.plugin_name_snake)):
+            logger.debug(
+                f"Skipping generation of extra plugin files for {plugin.info.plugin_name_snake} - at least one file out of 'plugin.py', 'pyproject', and 'register_{plugin.info.plugin_name_snake}.py' already exists."
+            )
+            continue
+
+        plugin.run()
 
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
-    sys.argv = ["generate_cli.py", "--core"]
+    import sys
+
+    sys.argv = ["bw-generate-cli", "--target", "bec_widgets"]
     main()

bec_widgets/cli/rpc/rpc_base.py

@@ -0,0 +1,308 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import inspect
+import threading
+import uuid
+from functools import wraps
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Any, cast
+
+from bec_lib.client import BECClient
+from bec_lib.endpoints import MessageEndpoints
+from bec_lib.utils.import_utils import lazy_import, lazy_import_from
+
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_lib import messages
+    from bec_lib.connector import MessageObject
+
+    import bec_widgets.cli.client as client
+    from bec_widgets.cli.client_utils import BECGuiClient
+else:
+    client = lazy_import("bec_widgets.cli.client")  # avoid circular import
+    messages = lazy_import("bec_lib.messages")
+    MessageObject = lazy_import_from("bec_lib.connector", ("MessageObject",))
+
+# pylint: disable=protected-access
+
+
+def rpc_call(func):
+    """
+    A decorator for calling a function on the server.
+
+    Args:
+        func: The function to call.
+
+    Returns:
+        The result of the function call.
+    """
+
+    @wraps(func)
+    def wrapper(self, *args, **kwargs):
+        # we could rely on a strict type check here, but this is more flexible
+        # moreover, it would anyway crash for objects...
+        caller_frame = inspect.currentframe().f_back  # type: ignore
+        while caller_frame:
+            if "jedi" in caller_frame.f_globals:
+                # Jedi module is present, likely tab completion
+                # Do not run the RPC call
+                return None  # func(*args, **kwargs)
+            caller_frame = caller_frame.f_back
+
+        out = []
+        for arg in args:
+            if hasattr(arg, "name"):
+                arg = arg.name
+            out.append(arg)
+        args = tuple(out)
+        for key, val in kwargs.items():
+            if hasattr(val, "name"):
+                kwargs[key] = val.name
+        if not self._root._gui_is_alive():
+            raise RuntimeError("GUI is not alive")
+        return self._run_rpc(func.__name__, *args, **kwargs)
+
+    return wrapper
+
+
+class RPCResponseTimeoutError(Exception):
+    """Exception raised when an RPC response is not received within the expected time."""
+
+    def __init__(self, request_id, timeout):
+        super().__init__(
+            f"RPC response not received within {timeout} seconds for request ID {request_id}"
+        )
+
+
+class DeletedWidgetError(Exception): ...
+
+
+def check_for_deleted_widget(func):
+    @wraps(func)
+    def wrapper(self, *args, **kwargs):
+        if self._gui_id not in self._registry:
+            raise DeletedWidgetError(f"Widget with gui_id {self._gui_id} has been deleted")
+        return func(self, *args, **kwargs)
+
+    return wrapper
+
+
+class RPCReference:
+    def __init__(self, registry: dict, gui_id: str) -> None:
+        self._registry = registry
+        self._gui_id = gui_id
+        self.object_name = self._registry[self._gui_id].object_name
+
+    @check_for_deleted_widget
+    def __getattr__(self, name):
+        if name in ["_registry", "_gui_id", "_is_deleted", "object_name"]:
+            return super().__getattribute__(name)
+        return self._registry[self._gui_id].__getattribute__(name)
+
+    def __setattr__(self, name, value):
+        if name in ["_registry", "_gui_id", "_is_deleted", "object_name"]:
+            return super().__setattr__(name, value)
+        if self._gui_id not in self._registry:
+            raise DeletedWidgetError(f"Widget with gui_id {self._gui_id} has been deleted")
+        self._registry[self._gui_id].__setattr__(name, value)
+
+    def __repr__(self):
+        if self._gui_id not in self._registry:
+            return f"<Deleted widget with gui_id {self._gui_id}>"
+        return self._registry[self._gui_id].__repr__()
+
+    def __str__(self):
+        if self._gui_id not in self._registry:
+            return f"<Deleted widget with gui_id {self._gui_id}>"
+        return self._registry[self._gui_id].__str__()
+
+    def __dir__(self):
+        if self._gui_id not in self._registry:
+            return []
+        return self._registry[self._gui_id].__dir__()
+
+    def _is_deleted(self) -> bool:
+        return self._gui_id not in self._registry
+
+
+class RPCBase:
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        gui_id: str | None = None,
+        config: dict | None = None,
+        object_name: str | None = None,
+        parent=None,
+        **kwargs,
+    ) -> None:
+        self._client = BECClient()  # BECClient is a singleton; here, we simply get the instance
+        self._config = config if config is not None else {}
+        self._gui_id = gui_id if gui_id is not None else str(uuid.uuid4())[:5]
+        self.object_name = object_name if object_name is not None else str(uuid.uuid4())[:5]
+        self._parent = parent
+        self._msg_wait_event = threading.Event()
+        self._rpc_response = None
+        super().__init__()
+        self._rpc_references: dict[str, str] = {}
+
+    def __repr__(self):
+        type_ = type(self)
+        qualname = type_.__qualname__
+        return f"<{qualname} with name: {self.object_name}>"
+
+    def remove(self):
+        """
+        Remove the widget.
+        """
+        obj = self._root._server_registry.get(self._gui_id)
+        if obj is None:
+            raise ValueError(f"Widget {self._gui_id} not found.")
+        if proxy := obj.get("container_proxy"):
+            assert isinstance(proxy, str)
+            self._run_rpc("remove", gui_id=proxy)
+            return
+        self._run_rpc("remove")
+
+    @property
+    def _root(self) -> BECGuiClient:
+        """
+        Get the root widget. This is the BECFigure widget that holds
+        the anchor gui_id.
+        """
+        parent = self
+        # pylint: disable=protected-access
+        while parent._parent is not None:
+            parent = parent._parent
+        return parent  # type: ignore
+
+    def _run_rpc(
+        self,
+        method,
+        *args,
+        wait_for_rpc_response=True,
+        timeout=5,
+        gui_id: str | None = None,
+        **kwargs,
+    ) -> Any:
+        """
+        Run the RPC call.
+
+        Args:
+            method: The method to call.
+            args: The arguments to pass to the method.
+            wait_for_rpc_response: Whether to wait for the RPC response.
+            timeout: The timeout for the RPC response.
+            gui_id: The GUI ID to use for the RPC call. If None, the default GUI ID is used.
+            kwargs: The keyword arguments to pass to the method.
+
+        Returns:
+            The result of the RPC call.
+        """
+        request_id = str(uuid.uuid4())
+        rpc_msg = messages.GUIInstructionMessage(
+            action=method,
+            parameter={"args": args, "kwargs": kwargs, "gui_id": gui_id or self._gui_id},
+            metadata={"request_id": request_id},
+        )
+        # pylint: disable=protected-access
+        receiver = self._root._gui_id
+        if wait_for_rpc_response:
+            self._rpc_response = None
+            self._msg_wait_event.clear()
+            self._client.connector.register(
+                MessageEndpoints.gui_instruction_response(request_id),
+                cb=self._on_rpc_response,
+                parent=self,
+            )
+
+        self._client.connector.set_and_publish(MessageEndpoints.gui_instructions(receiver), rpc_msg)
+
+        if wait_for_rpc_response:
+            try:
+                finished = self._msg_wait_event.wait(timeout)
+                if not finished:
+                    raise RPCResponseTimeoutError(request_id, timeout)
+            finally:
+                self._msg_wait_event.clear()
+                self._client.connector.unregister(
+                    MessageEndpoints.gui_instruction_response(request_id), cb=self._on_rpc_response
+                )
+
+            # we can assume that the response is a RequestResponseMessage, updated by
+            # the _on_rpc_response method
+            assert isinstance(self._rpc_response, messages.RequestResponseMessage)
+
+            if not self._rpc_response.accepted:
+                raise ValueError(self._rpc_response.message["error"])
+            msg_result = self._rpc_response.message.get("result")
+            self._rpc_response = None
+            return self._create_widget_from_msg_result(msg_result)
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _on_rpc_response(msg_obj: MessageObject, parent: RPCBase) -> None:
+        msg = cast(messages.RequestResponseMessage, msg_obj.value)
+        parent._rpc_response = msg
+        parent._msg_wait_event.set()
+
+    def _create_widget_from_msg_result(self, msg_result):
+        if msg_result is None:
+            return None
+        if isinstance(msg_result, list):
+            return [self._create_widget_from_msg_result(res) for res in msg_result]
+        if isinstance(msg_result, dict):
+            if "__rpc__" not in msg_result:
+                return {
+                    key: self._create_widget_from_msg_result(val) for key, val in msg_result.items()
+                }
+            cls = msg_result.pop("widget_class", None)
+            msg_result.pop("__rpc__", None)
+
+            if not cls:
+                return msg_result
+
+            cls = getattr(client, cls)
+            # The namespace of the object will be updated dynamically on the client side
+            # Therefore it is important to check if the object is already in the registry
+            # If yes, we return the reference to the object, otherwise we create a new object
+            # pylint: disable=protected-access
+            if msg_result["gui_id"] in self._root._ipython_registry:
+                return RPCReference(self._root._ipython_registry, msg_result["gui_id"])
+            ret = cls(parent=self, **msg_result)
+            self._root._ipython_registry[ret._gui_id] = ret
+            self._refresh_references()
+            obj = RPCReference(self._root._ipython_registry, ret._gui_id)
+            return obj
+            # return ret
+        return msg_result
+
+    def _gui_is_alive(self):
+        """
+        Check if the GUI is alive.
+        """
+        heart = self._client.connector.get(MessageEndpoints.gui_heartbeat(self._root._gui_id))
+        if heart is None:
+            return False
+        if heart.status == messages.BECStatus.RUNNING:
+            return True
+        return False
+
+    def _refresh_references(self):
+        """
+        Refresh the references.
+        """
+        with self._root._lock:
+            references = {}
+            for key, val in self._root._server_registry.items():
+                parent_id = val["config"].get("parent_id")
+                if parent_id == self._gui_id:
+                    references[key] = {
+                        "gui_id": val["config"]["gui_id"],
+                        "object_name": val["object_name"],
+                    }
+            removed_references = set(self._rpc_references.keys()) - set(references.keys())
+            for key in removed_references:
+                delattr(self, self._rpc_references[key]["object_name"])
+            self._rpc_references = references
+            for key, val in references.items():
+                setattr(
+                    self,
+                    val["object_name"],
+                    RPCReference(self._root._ipython_registry, val["gui_id"]),
+                )

bec_widgets/cli/rpc/rpc_register.py

@@ -0,0 +1,189 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from functools import wraps
+from threading import RLock
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Callable
+from weakref import WeakValueDictionary
+
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import QObject
+
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_widgets.utils.bec_connector import BECConnector
+    from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
+    from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock.dock import BECDock
+    from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock.dock_area import BECDockArea
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+def broadcast_update(func):
+    """
+    Decorator to broadcast updates to the RPCRegister whenever a new RPC object is added or removed.
+    If class attribute _skip_broadcast is set to True, the broadcast will be skipped
+    """
+
+    @wraps(func)
+    def wrapper(self, *args, **kwargs):
+        result = func(self, *args, **kwargs)
+        self.broadcast()
+        return result
+
+    return wrapper
+
+
+class RPCRegister:
+    """
+    A singleton class that keeps track of all the RPC objects registered in the system for CLI usage.
+    """
+
+    _instance = None
+    _initialized = False
+
+    def __new__(cls, *args, **kwargs):
+        if cls._instance is None:
+            cls._instance = super(RPCRegister, cls).__new__(cls)
+            cls._initialized = False
+        return cls._instance
+
+    def __init__(self):
+        if self._initialized:
+            return
+        self._rpc_register = WeakValueDictionary()
+        self._broadcast_on_hold = RPCRegisterBroadcast(self)
+        self._lock = RLock()
+        self._skip_broadcast = False
+        self._initialized = True
+        self.callbacks = []
+
+    @classmethod
+    def delayed_broadcast(cls):
+        """
+        Delay the broadcast of the update to all the callbacks.
+        """
+        register = cls()
+        return register._broadcast_on_hold
+
+    @broadcast_update
+    def add_rpc(self, rpc: BECConnector):
+        """
+        Add an RPC object to the register.
+
+        Args:
+            rpc(QObject): The RPC object to be added to the register.
+        """
+        if not hasattr(rpc, "gui_id"):
+            raise ValueError("RPC object must have a 'gui_id' attribute.")
+        self._rpc_register[rpc.gui_id] = rpc
+
+    @broadcast_update
+    def remove_rpc(self, rpc: BECConnector):
+        """
+        Remove an RPC object from the register.
+
+        Args:
+            rpc(str): The RPC object to be removed from the register.
+        """
+        if not hasattr(rpc, "gui_id"):
+            raise ValueError(f"RPC object {rpc} must have a 'gui_id' attribute.")
+        self._rpc_register.pop(rpc.gui_id, None)
+
+    def get_rpc_by_id(self, gui_id: str) -> QObject | None:
+        """
+        Get an RPC object by its ID.
+
+        Args:
+            gui_id(str): The ID of the RPC object to be retrieved.
+
+        Returns:
+            QObject | None: The RPC object with the given ID or None
+        """
+        rpc_object = self._rpc_register.get(gui_id, None)
+        return rpc_object
+
+    def list_all_connections(self) -> dict:
+        """
+        List all the registered RPC objects.
+
+        Returns:
+            dict: A dictionary containing all the registered RPC objects.
+        """
+        with self._lock:
+            connections = dict(self._rpc_register)
+        return connections
+
+    def get_names_of_rpc_by_class_type(
+        self, cls: type[BECWidget] | type[BECConnector] | type[BECDock] | type[BECDockArea]
+    ) -> list[str]:
+        """Get all the names of the widgets.
+
+        Args:
+            cls(BECWidget | BECConnector): The class of the RPC object to be retrieved.
+        """
+        # This retrieves any rpc objects that are subclass of BECWidget,
+        # i.e. curve and image items are excluded
+        widgets = [rpc for rpc in self._rpc_register.values() if isinstance(rpc, cls)]
+        return [widget.object_name for widget in widgets]
+
+    def broadcast(self):
+        """
+        Broadcast the update to all the callbacks.
+        """
+
+        if self._skip_broadcast:
+            return
+        connections = self.list_all_connections()
+        for callback in self.callbacks:
+            callback(connections)
+
+    def object_is_registered(self, obj: BECConnector) -> bool:
+        """
+        Check if an object is registered in the RPC register.
+
+        Args:
+            obj(QObject): The object to check.
+
+        Returns:
+            bool: True if the object is registered, False otherwise.
+        """
+        return obj.gui_id in self._rpc_register
+
+    def add_callback(self, callback: Callable[[dict], None]):
+        """
+        Add a callback that will be called whenever the registry is updated.
+
+        Args:
+            callback(Callable[[dict], None]): The callback to be added. It should accept a dictionary of all the
+            registered RPC objects as an argument.
+        """
+        self.callbacks.append(callback)
+
+    @classmethod
+    def reset_singleton(cls):
+        """
+        Reset the singleton instance.
+        """
+        cls._instance = None
+        cls._initialized = False
+
+
+class RPCRegisterBroadcast:
+    """Context manager for RPCRegister broadcast."""
+
+    def __init__(self, rpc_register: RPCRegister) -> None:
+        self.rpc_register = rpc_register
+        self._call_depth = 0
+
+    def __enter__(self):
+        """Enter the context manager"""
+        self._call_depth += 1  # Needed for nested calls
+        self.rpc_register._skip_broadcast = True
+        return self.rpc_register
+
+    def __exit__(self, *exc):
+        """Exit the context manager"""
+
+        self._call_depth -= 1  # Remove nested calls
+        if self._call_depth == 0:  # The Last one to exit is responsible for broadcasting
+            self.rpc_register._skip_broadcast = False
+        self.rpc_register.broadcast()

bec_widgets/cli/rpc/rpc_widget_handler.py

@@ -1,4 +1,9 @@
-from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from bec_widgets.cli.client_utils import IGNORE_WIDGETS
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_plugin_helper import get_all_plugin_widgets
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
+from bec_widgets.utils.plugin_utils import get_custom_classes
 
 
 class RPCWidgetHandler:
@@ -8,7 +13,7 @@ class RPCWidgetHandler:
         self._widget_classes = None
 
     @property
-    def widget_classes(self):
+    def widget_classes(self) -> dict[str, type[BECWidget]]:
         """
         Get the available widget classes.
 
@@ -17,7 +22,7 @@ class RPCWidgetHandler:
         """
         if self._widget_classes is None:
             self.update_available_widgets()
-        return self._widget_classes
+        return self._widget_classes  # type: ignore
 
     def update_available_widgets(self):
         """
@@ -26,25 +31,24 @@ class RPCWidgetHandler:
         Returns:
             None
         """
-        from bec_widgets.utils.plugin_utils import get_rpc_classes
+        clss = get_custom_classes("bec_widgets")
+        self._widget_classes = get_all_plugin_widgets() | {
+            cls.__name__: cls for cls in clss.widgets if cls.__name__ not in IGNORE_WIDGETS
+        }
 
-        clss = get_rpc_classes("bec_widgets")
-        self._widget_classes = {cls.__name__: cls for cls in clss.top_level_classes}
-
-    def create_widget(self, widget_type, **kwargs) -> BECConnector:
+    def create_widget(self, widget_type, **kwargs) -> BECWidget:
         """
         Create a widget from an RPC message.
 
         Args:
             widget_type(str): The type of the widget.
+            name (str): The name of the widget.
             **kwargs: The keyword arguments for the widget.
 
         Returns:
-            widget(BECConnector): The created widget.
+            widget(BECWidget): The created widget.
         """
-        if self._widget_classes is None:
-            self.update_available_widgets()
-        widget_class = self._widget_classes.get(widget_type)
+        widget_class = self.widget_classes.get(widget_type)  # type: ignore
         if widget_class:
             return widget_class(**kwargs)
         raise ValueError(f"Unknown widget type: {widget_type}")

bec_widgets/cli/rpc_register.py

@@ -1,80 +0,0 @@
-from threading import Lock
-from weakref import WeakValueDictionary
-
-from qtpy.QtCore import QObject
-
-
-class RPCRegister:
-    """
-    A singleton class that keeps track of all the RPC objects registered in the system for CLI usage.
-    """
-
-    _instance = None
-    _initialized = False
-    _lock = Lock()
-
-    def __new__(cls, *args, **kwargs):
-        if cls._instance is None:
-            cls._instance = super(RPCRegister, cls).__new__(cls)
-            cls._initialized = False
-        return cls._instance
-
-    def __init__(self):
-        if self._initialized:
-            return
-        self._rpc_register = WeakValueDictionary()
-        self._initialized = True
-
-    def add_rpc(self, rpc: QObject):
-        """
-        Add an RPC object to the register.
-
-        Args:
-            rpc(QObject): The RPC object to be added to the register.
-        """
-        if not hasattr(rpc, "gui_id"):
-            raise ValueError("RPC object must have a 'gui_id' attribute.")
-        self._rpc_register[rpc.gui_id] = rpc
-
-    def remove_rpc(self, rpc: str):
-        """
-        Remove an RPC object from the register.
-
-        Args:
-            rpc(str): The RPC object to be removed from the register.
-        """
-        if not hasattr(rpc, "gui_id"):
-            raise ValueError(f"RPC object {rpc} must have a 'gui_id' attribute.")
-        self._rpc_register.pop(rpc.gui_id, None)
-
-    def get_rpc_by_id(self, gui_id: str) -> QObject:
-        """
-        Get an RPC object by its ID.
-
-        Args:
-            gui_id(str): The ID of the RPC object to be retrieved.
-
-        Returns:
-            QObject: The RPC object with the given ID.
-        """
-        rpc_object = self._rpc_register.get(gui_id, None)
-        return rpc_object
-
-    def list_all_connections(self) -> dict:
-        """
-        List all the registered RPC objects.
-
-        Returns:
-            dict: A dictionary containing all the registered RPC objects.
-        """
-        with self._lock:
-            connections = dict(self._rpc_register)
-        return connections
-
-    @classmethod
-    def reset_singleton(cls):
-        """
-        Reset the singleton instance.
-        """
-        cls._instance = None
-        cls._initialized = False

bec_widgets/cli/server.py

@@ -1,234 +1,178 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
-import inspect
+import argparse
 import json
+import os
 import signal
 import sys
 from contextlib import redirect_stderr, redirect_stdout
-from typing import Union
+from typing import cast
 
-from bec_lib.endpoints import MessageEndpoints
 from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.service_config import ServiceConfig
-from bec_lib.utils.import_utils import lazy_import
-from qtpy.QtCore import QTimer
+from qtpy.QtCore import QSize, Qt
+from qtpy.QtGui import QIcon
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
 
-from bec_widgets.cli.rpc_register import RPCRegister
-from bec_widgets.utils import BECDispatcher
-from bec_widgets.utils.bec_connector import BECConnector
-from bec_widgets.utils.bec_dispatcher import QtRedisConnector
-from bec_widgets.widgets.dock.dock_area import BECDockArea
-from bec_widgets.widgets.figure import BECFigure
+import bec_widgets
+from bec_widgets.applications.launch_window import LaunchWindow
+from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_register import RPCRegister
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_dispatcher import BECDispatcher
 
-messages = lazy_import("bec_lib.messages")
 logger = bec_logger.logger
 
-
-class BECWidgetsCLIServer:
-
-    def __init__(
-        self,
-        gui_id: str = None,
-        dispatcher: BECDispatcher = None,
-        client=None,
-        config=None,
-        gui_class: Union[BECFigure, BECDockArea] = BECFigure,
-    ) -> None:
-        self.dispatcher = BECDispatcher(config=config) if dispatcher is None else dispatcher
-        self.client = self.dispatcher.client if client is None else client
-        self.client.start()
-        self.gui_id = gui_id
-        self.gui = gui_class(gui_id=self.gui_id)
-        self.rpc_register = RPCRegister()
-        self.rpc_register.add_rpc(self.gui)
-
-        self.dispatcher.connect_slot(
-            self.on_rpc_update, MessageEndpoints.gui_instructions(self.gui_id)
-        )
-
-        # Setup QTimer for heartbeat
-        self._shutdown_event = False
-        self._heartbeat_timer = QTimer()
-        self._heartbeat_timer.timeout.connect(self.emit_heartbeat)
-        self._heartbeat_timer.start(200)
-
-    def on_rpc_update(self, msg: dict, metadata: dict):
-        request_id = metadata.get("request_id")
-        try:
-            obj = self.get_object_from_config(msg["parameter"])
-            method = msg["action"]
-            args = msg["parameter"].get("args", [])
-            kwargs = msg["parameter"].get("kwargs", {})
-            res = self.run_rpc(obj, method, args, kwargs)
-        except Exception as e:
-            print(e)
-            self.send_response(request_id, False, {"error": str(e)})
-        else:
-            self.send_response(request_id, True, {"result": res})
-
-    def send_response(self, request_id: str, accepted: bool, msg: dict):
-        self.client.connector.set_and_publish(
-            MessageEndpoints.gui_instruction_response(request_id),
-            messages.RequestResponseMessage(accepted=accepted, message=msg),
-            expire=60,
-        )
-
-    def get_object_from_config(self, config: dict):
-        gui_id = config.get("gui_id")
-        obj = self.rpc_register.get_rpc_by_id(gui_id)
-        if obj is None:
-            raise ValueError(f"Object with gui_id {gui_id} not found")
-        return obj
-
-    def run_rpc(self, obj, method, args, kwargs):
-        method_obj = getattr(obj, method)
-        # check if the method accepts args and kwargs
-        if not callable(method_obj):
-            res = method_obj
-        else:
-            sig = inspect.signature(method_obj)
-            if sig.parameters:
-                res = method_obj(*args, **kwargs)
-            else:
-                res = method_obj()
-
-        if isinstance(res, list):
-            res = [self.serialize_object(obj) for obj in res]
-        elif isinstance(res, dict):
-            res = {key: self.serialize_object(val) for key, val in res.items()}
-        else:
-            res = self.serialize_object(res)
-        return res
-
-    def serialize_object(self, obj):
-        if isinstance(obj, BECConnector):
-            return {
-                "gui_id": obj.gui_id,
-                "widget_class": obj.__class__.__name__,
-                "config": obj.config.model_dump(),
-                "__rpc__": True,
-            }
-        return obj
-
-    def emit_heartbeat(self):
-        if self._shutdown_event is False:
-            self.client.connector.set(
-                MessageEndpoints.gui_heartbeat(self.gui_id),
-                messages.StatusMessage(name=self.gui_id, status=1, info={}),
-                expire=1,
-            )
-
-    def shutdown(self):  # TODO not sure if needed when cleanup is done at level of BECConnector
-        self._shutdown_event = True
-        self._heartbeat_timer.stop()
-        self.gui.close()
-        self.client.shutdown()
+MODULE_PATH = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
 
 
 class SimpleFileLikeFromLogOutputFunc:
     def __init__(self, log_func):
         self._log_func = log_func
+        self._buffer = []
 
     def write(self, buffer):
-        for line in buffer.rstrip().splitlines():
-            line = line.rstrip()
-            if line:
-                self._log_func(line)
+        self._buffer.append(buffer)
 
     def flush(self):
-        return
+        lines, _, remaining = "".join(self._buffer).rpartition("\n")
+        if lines:
+            self._log_func(lines)
+        self._buffer = [remaining]
 
     def close(self):
         return
 
 
-def _start_server(gui_id: str, gui_class: Union[BECFigure, BECDockArea], config: str | None = None):
-    if config:
-        try:
-            config = json.loads(config)
-            service_config = ServiceConfig(config=config)
-        except (json.JSONDecodeError, TypeError):
-            service_config = ServiceConfig(config_path=config)
-    else:
-        # if no config is provided, use the default config
-        service_config = ServiceConfig()
+class GUIServer:
+    """
+    This class is used to start the BEC GUI and is the main entry point for launching BEC Widgets in a subprocess.
+    """
 
-    bec_logger.configure(
-        service_config.redis,
-        QtRedisConnector,
-        service_name="BECWidgetsCLIServer",
-        service_config=service_config.service_config,
-    )
-    server = BECWidgetsCLIServer(gui_id=gui_id, config=service_config, gui_class=gui_class)
-    return server
+    def __init__(self, args):
+        self.config = args.config
+        self.gui_id = args.id
+        self.gui_class = args.gui_class
+        self.gui_class_id = args.gui_class_id
+        self.hide = args.hide
+        self.app: QApplication | None = None
+        self.launcher_window: LaunchWindow | None = None
+        self.dispatcher: BECDispatcher | None = None
+
+    def start(self):
+        """
+        Start the GUI server.
+        """
+        bec_logger.level = bec_logger.LOGLEVEL.INFO
+        if self.hide:
+            # pylint: disable=protected-access
+            bec_logger._stderr_log_level = bec_logger.LOGLEVEL.ERROR
+            bec_logger._update_sinks()
+
+        with redirect_stdout(SimpleFileLikeFromLogOutputFunc(logger.info)):  # type: ignore
+            with redirect_stderr(SimpleFileLikeFromLogOutputFunc(logger.error)):  # type: ignore
+                self._run()
+
+    def _get_service_config(self) -> ServiceConfig:
+        if self.config:
+            try:
+                config = json.loads(self.config)
+                service_config = ServiceConfig(config=config)
+            except (json.JSONDecodeError, TypeError):
+                service_config = ServiceConfig(config_path=config)
+        else:
+            # if no config is provided, use the default config
+            service_config = ServiceConfig()
+        return service_config
+
+    def _run(self):
+        """
+        Run the GUI server.
+        """
+        self.app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+        self.app.setApplicationName("BEC")
+        self.app.gui_id = self.gui_id  # type: ignore
+        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)
+
+        self.launcher_window = LaunchWindow(gui_id=f"{self.gui_id}:launcher")
+        self.launcher_window.setAttribute(Qt.WA_ShowWithoutActivating)  # type: ignore
+
+        self.app.aboutToQuit.connect(self.shutdown)
+        self.app.setQuitOnLastWindowClosed(False)
+
+        if self.gui_class:
+            # If the server is started with a specific gui class, we launch it.
+            # This will automatically hide the launcher.
+            self.launcher_window.launch(self.gui_class, name=self.gui_class_id)
+
+        def sigint_handler(*args):
+            # display message, for people to let it terminate gracefully
+            print("Caught SIGINT, exiting")
+            # Widgets should be all closed.
+            with RPCRegister.delayed_broadcast():
+                for widget in QApplication.instance().topLevelWidgets():  # type: ignore
+                    widget.close()
+            if self.app:
+                self.app.quit()
+
+        signal.signal(signal.SIGINT, sigint_handler)
+        signal.signal(signal.SIGTERM, sigint_handler)
+
+        sys.exit(self.app.exec())
+
+    def setup_bec_icon(self):
+        """
+        Set the BEC icon for the application
+        """
+        if self.app is None:
+            return
+        icon = QIcon()
+        icon.addFile(
+            os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "assets", "app_icons", "bec_widgets_icon.png"),
+            size=QSize(48, 48),
+        )
+        self.app.setWindowIcon(icon)
+
+    def shutdown(self):
+        """
+        Shutdown the GUI server.
+        """
+        if self.dispatcher:
+            self.dispatcher.stop_cli_server()
+            self.dispatcher.disconnect_all()
 
 
 def main():
-    import argparse
-    import os
-
-    from qtpy.QtCore import QSize
-    from qtpy.QtGui import QIcon
-    from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication, QMainWindow
-
-    import bec_widgets
+    """
+    Main entry point for subprocesses that start a GUI server.
+    """
 
     parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="BEC Widgets CLI Server")
-    parser.add_argument("--id", type=str, help="The id of the server")
+    parser.add_argument("--id", type=str, default="test", help="The id of the server")
     parser.add_argument(
         "--gui_class",
         type=str,
         help="Name of the gui class to be rendered. Possible values: \n- BECFigure\n- BECDockArea",
     )
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--gui_class_id",
+        type=str,
+        default="bec",
+        help="The id of the gui class that is added to the QApplication",
+    )
     parser.add_argument("--config", type=str, help="Config file or config string.")
+    parser.add_argument("--hide", action="store_true", help="Hide on startup")
 
     args = parser.parse_args()
 
-    if args.gui_class == "BECFigure":
-        gui_class = BECFigure
-    elif args.gui_class == "BECDockArea":
-        gui_class = BECDockArea
-    else:
-        print(
-            "Please specify a valid gui_class to run. Use -h for help."
-            "\n Starting with default gui_class BECFigure."
-        )
-        gui_class = BECFigure
-
-    with redirect_stdout(SimpleFileLikeFromLogOutputFunc(logger.debug)):
-        with redirect_stderr(SimpleFileLikeFromLogOutputFunc(logger.error)):
-            app = QApplication(sys.argv)
-            app.setApplicationName("BEC Figure")
-            module_path = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
-            icon = QIcon()
-            icon.addFile(
-                os.path.join(module_path, "assets", "app_icons", "bec_widgets_icon.png"),
-                size=QSize(48, 48),
-            )
-            app.setWindowIcon(icon)
-
-            win = QMainWindow()
-            win.setWindowTitle("BEC Widgets")
-
-            server = _start_server(args.id, gui_class, args.config)
-
-            gui = server.gui
-            win.setCentralWidget(gui)
-            win.resize(800, 600)
-            win.show()
-
-            app.aboutToQuit.connect(server.shutdown)
-
-            def sigint_handler(*args):
-                # display message, for people to let it terminate gracefully
-                print("Caught SIGINT, exiting")
-                app.quit()
-
-            signal.signal(signal.SIGINT, sigint_handler)
-            signal.signal(signal.SIGTERM, sigint_handler)
-
-            sys.exit(app.exec())
+    server = GUIServer(args)
+    server.start()
 
 
-if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    # import sys
+
+    # sys.argv = ["bec_widgets", "--gui_class", "MainWindow"]
     main()

bec_widgets/examples/general_app/general_app.py

@@ -0,0 +1,92 @@
+import os
+import sys
+
+from qtpy.QtCore import QSize
+from qtpy.QtGui import QActionGroup, QIcon
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication, QMainWindow, QStyle
+
+import bec_widgets
+from bec_widgets.examples.general_app.web_links import BECWebLinksMixin
+from bec_widgets.utils.colors import apply_theme
+from bec_widgets.utils.ui_loader import UILoader
+
+MODULE_PATH = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
+
+
+class BECGeneralApp(QMainWindow):
+    def __init__(self, parent=None):
+        super(BECGeneralApp, self).__init__(parent)
+        ui_file_path = os.path.join(os.path.dirname(__file__), "general_app.ui")
+        self.load_ui(ui_file_path)
+
+        self.resize(1280, 720)
+
+        self.ini_ui()
+
+    def ini_ui(self):
+        self._setup_icons()
+        self._hook_menubar_docs()
+        self._hook_theme_bar()
+
+    def load_ui(self, ui_file):
+        loader = UILoader(self)
+        self.ui = loader.loader(ui_file)
+        self.setCentralWidget(self.ui)
+
+    def _hook_menubar_docs(self):
+        # BEC Docs
+        self.ui.action_BEC_docs.triggered.connect(BECWebLinksMixin.open_bec_docs)
+        # BEC Widgets Docs
+        self.ui.action_BEC_widgets_docs.triggered.connect(BECWebLinksMixin.open_bec_widgets_docs)
+        # Bug report
+        self.ui.action_bug_report.triggered.connect(BECWebLinksMixin.open_bec_bug_report)
+
+    def change_theme(self, theme):
+        apply_theme(theme)
+
+    def _setup_icons(self):
+        help_icon = QApplication.style().standardIcon(QStyle.SP_MessageBoxQuestion)
+        bug_icon = QApplication.style().standardIcon(QStyle.SP_MessageBoxInformation)
+        computer_icon = QIcon.fromTheme("computer")
+        widget_icon = QIcon(os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "assets", "designer_icons", "dock_area.png"))
+
+        self.ui.action_BEC_docs.setIcon(help_icon)
+        self.ui.action_BEC_widgets_docs.setIcon(help_icon)
+        self.ui.action_bug_report.setIcon(bug_icon)
+
+        self.ui.central_tab.setTabIcon(0, widget_icon)
+        self.ui.central_tab.setTabIcon(1, computer_icon)
+
+    def _hook_theme_bar(self):
+        self.ui.action_light.setCheckable(True)
+        self.ui.action_dark.setCheckable(True)
+
+        # Create an action group to make sure only one can be checked at a time
+        theme_group = QActionGroup(self)
+        theme_group.addAction(self.ui.action_light)
+        theme_group.addAction(self.ui.action_dark)
+        theme_group.setExclusive(True)
+
+        # Connect the actions to the theme change method
+
+        self.ui.action_light.triggered.connect(lambda: self.change_theme("light"))
+        self.ui.action_dark.triggered.connect(lambda: self.change_theme("dark"))
+
+        self.ui.action_dark.trigger()
+
+
+def main():  # pragma: no cover
+
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+    icon = QIcon()
+    icon.addFile(
+        os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "assets", "app_icons", "BEC-General-App.png"), size=QSize(48, 48)
+    )
+    app.setWindowIcon(icon)
+    main_window = BECGeneralApp()
+    main_window.show()
+    sys.exit(app.exec_())
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    main()

bec_widgets/examples/general_app/general_app.ui

@@ -0,0 +1,262 @@
+<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
+<ui version="4.0">
+    <class>MainWindow</class>
+    <widget class="QMainWindow" name="MainWindow">
+        <property name="geometry">
+            <rect>
+                <x>0</x>
+                <y>0</y>
+                <width>1718</width>
+                <height>1139</height>
+            </rect>
+        </property>
+        <property name="windowTitle">
+            <string>MainWindow</string>
+        </property>
+        <property name="tabShape">
+            <enum>QTabWidget::TabShape::Rounded</enum>
+        </property>
+        <widget class="QWidget" name="centralwidget">
+            <layout class="QVBoxLayout" name="verticalLayout_3">
+                <item>
+                    <widget class="QTabWidget" name="central_tab">
+                        <property name="currentIndex">
+                            <number>0</number>
+                        </property>
+                        <widget class="QWidget" name="dock_area_tab">
+                            <attribute name="title">
+                                <string>Dock Area</string>
+                            </attribute>
+                            <layout class="QVBoxLayout" name="verticalLayout">
+                                <property name="leftMargin">
+                                    <number>2</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <property name="topMargin">
+                                    <number>1</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <property name="rightMargin">
+                                    <number>2</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <property name="bottomMargin">
+                                    <number>2</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <item>
+                                    <widget class="BECDockArea" name="dock_area"/>
+                                </item>
+                            </layout>
+                        </widget>
+                        <widget class="QWidget" name="vscode_tab">
+                            <attribute name="icon">
+                                <iconset theme="QIcon::ThemeIcon::Computer"/>
+                            </attribute>
+                            <attribute name="title">
+                                <string>Visual Studio Code</string>
+                            </attribute>
+                            <layout class="QVBoxLayout" name="verticalLayout_2">
+                                <property name="leftMargin">
+                                    <number>2</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <property name="topMargin">
+                                    <number>1</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <property name="rightMargin">
+                                    <number>2</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <property name="bottomMargin">
+                                    <number>2</number>
+                                </property>
+                                <item>
+                                    <widget class="VSCodeEditor" name="vscode"/>
+                                </item>
+                            </layout>
+                        </widget>
+                    </widget>
+                </item>
+            </layout>
+        </widget>
+        <widget class="QMenuBar" name="menubar">
+            <property name="geometry">
+                <rect>
+                    <x>0</x>
+                    <y>0</y>
+                    <width>1718</width>
+                    <height>31</height>
+                </rect>
+            </property>
+            <widget class="QMenu" name="menuHelp">
+                <property name="title">
+                    <string>Help</string>
+                </property>
+                <addaction name="action_BEC_docs"/>
+                <addaction name="action_BEC_widgets_docs"/>
+                <addaction name="action_bug_report"/>
+            </widget>
+            <widget class="QMenu" name="menuTheme">
+                <property name="title">
+                    <string>Theme</string>
+                </property>
+                <addaction name="action_light"/>
+                <addaction name="action_dark"/>
+            </widget>
+            <addaction name="menuTheme"/>
+            <addaction name="menuHelp"/>
+        </widget>
+        <widget class="QStatusBar" name="statusbar"/>
+        <widget class="QDockWidget" name="dock_scan_control">
+            <property name="windowTitle">
+                <string>Scan Control</string>
+            </property>
+            <attribute name="dockWidgetArea">
+                <number>2</number>
+            </attribute>
+            <widget class="QWidget" name="dockWidgetContents_2">
+                <layout class="QVBoxLayout" name="verticalLayout_4">
+                    <item>
+                        <widget class="ScanControl" name="scan_control"/>
+                    </item>
+                </layout>
+            </widget>
+        </widget>
+        <widget class="QDockWidget" name="dock_status_2">
+            <property name="windowTitle">
+                <string>BEC Service Status</string>
+            </property>
+            <attribute name="dockWidgetArea">
+                <number>2</number>
+            </attribute>
+            <widget class="QWidget" name="dockWidgetContents_3">
+                <layout class="QVBoxLayout" name="verticalLayout_5">
+                    <property name="leftMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <property name="topMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <property name="rightMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <property name="bottomMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <item>
+                        <widget class="BECStatusBox" name="bec_status_box_2"/>
+                    </item>
+                </layout>
+            </widget>
+        </widget>
+        <widget class="QDockWidget" name="dock_queue">
+            <property name="windowTitle">
+                <string>Scan Queue</string>
+            </property>
+            <attribute name="dockWidgetArea">
+                <number>2</number>
+            </attribute>
+            <widget class="QWidget" name="dockWidgetContents_4">
+                <layout class="QVBoxLayout" name="verticalLayout_6">
+                    <property name="leftMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <property name="topMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <property name="rightMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <property name="bottomMargin">
+                        <number>0</number>
+                    </property>
+                    <item>
+                        <widget class="BECQueue" name="bec_queue">
+                            <row/>
+                            <column/>
+                            <column/>
+                            <column/>
+                            <item row="0" column="0"/>
+                            <item row="0" column="1"/>
+                            <item row="0" column="2"/>
+                        </widget>
+                    </item>
+                </layout>
+            </widget>
+        </widget>
+        <action name="action_BEC_docs">
+            <property name="icon">
+                <iconset theme="QIcon::ThemeIcon::DialogQuestion"/>
+            </property>
+            <property name="text">
+                <string>BEC Docs</string>
+            </property>
+        </action>
+        <action name="action_BEC_widgets_docs">
+            <property name="icon">
+                <iconset theme="QIcon::ThemeIcon::DialogQuestion"/>
+            </property>
+            <property name="text">
+                <string>BEC Widgets Docs</string>
+            </property>
+        </action>
+        <action name="action_bug_report">
+            <property name="icon">
+                <iconset theme="QIcon::ThemeIcon::DialogError"/>
+            </property>
+            <property name="text">
+                <string>Bug Report</string>
+            </property>
+        </action>
+        <action name="action_light">
+            <property name="checkable">
+                <bool>true</bool>
+            </property>
+            <property name="text">
+                <string>Light</string>
+            </property>
+        </action>
+        <action name="action_dark">
+            <property name="checkable">
+                <bool>true</bool>
+            </property>
+            <property name="text">
+                <string>Dark</string>
+            </property>
+        </action>
+    </widget>
+    <customwidgets>
+        <customwidget>
+            <class>WebsiteWidget</class>
+            <extends>QWebEngineView</extends>
+            <header>website_widget</header>
+        </customwidget>
+        <customwidget>
+            <class>BECQueue</class>
+            <extends>QTableWidget</extends>
+            <header>bec_queue</header>
+        </customwidget>
+        <customwidget>
+            <class>ScanControl</class>
+            <extends>QWidget</extends>
+            <header>scan_control</header>
+        </customwidget>
+        <customwidget>
+            <class>VSCodeEditor</class>
+            <extends>WebsiteWidget</extends>
+            <header>vs_code_editor</header>
+        </customwidget>
+        <customwidget>
+            <class>BECStatusBox</class>
+            <extends>QWidget</extends>
+            <header>bec_status_box</header>
+        </customwidget>
+        <customwidget>
+            <class>BECDockArea</class>
+            <extends>QWidget</extends>
+            <header>dock_area</header>
+        </customwidget>
+        <customwidget>
+            <class>QWebEngineView</class>
+            <extends></extends>
+            <header location="global">QtWebEngineWidgets/QWebEngineView</header>
+        </customwidget>
+    </customwidgets>
+    <resources/>
+    <connections/>
+</ui>

bec_widgets/examples/general_app/web_links.py

@@ -0,0 +1,15 @@
+import webbrowser
+
+
+class BECWebLinksMixin:
+    @staticmethod
+    def open_bec_docs():
+        webbrowser.open("https://beamline-experiment-control.readthedocs.io/en/latest/")
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def open_bec_widgets_docs():
+        webbrowser.open("https://bec.readthedocs.io/projects/bec-widgets/en/latest/")
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def open_bec_bug_report():
+        webbrowser.open("https://gitlab.psi.ch/groups/bec/-/issues/")

bec_widgets/examples/jupyter_console/jupyter_console_window.py

@@ -2,12 +2,12 @@ import os
 
 import numpy as np
 import pyqtgraph as pg
-from qtpy.QtCore import QSize
-from qtpy.QtGui import QIcon
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QApplication,
     QGroupBox,
     QHBoxLayout,
+    QPushButton,
     QSplitter,
     QTabWidget,
     QVBoxLayout,
@@ -15,10 +15,16 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
 )
 
 from bec_widgets.utils import BECDispatcher
-from bec_widgets.utils.colors import apply_theme
-from bec_widgets.widgets.dock.dock_area import BECDockArea
-from bec_widgets.widgets.figure import BECFigure
-from bec_widgets.widgets.jupyter_console.jupyter_console import BECJupyterConsole
+from bec_widgets.utils.widget_io import WidgetHierarchy as wh
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock import BECDockArea
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.layout_manager.layout_manager import LayoutManagerWidget
+from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.jupyter_console.jupyter_console import BECJupyterConsole
+from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.image.image import Image
+from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.motor_map.motor_map import MotorMap
+from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.multi_waveform.multi_waveform import MultiWaveform
+from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.plot_base import PlotBase
+from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.scatter_waveform.scatter_waveform import ScatterWaveform
+from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.waveform.waveform import Waveform
 
 
 class JupyterConsoleWindow(QWidget):  # pragma: no cover:
@@ -35,23 +41,24 @@ class JupyterConsoleWindow(QWidget):  # pragma: no cover:
                 {
                     "np": np,
                     "pg": pg,
-                    "fig": self.figure,
+                    "wh": wh,
                     "dock": self.dock,
-                    "w1": self.w1,
-                    "w2": self.w2,
-                    "w3": self.w3,
-                    "w4": self.w4,
-                    "w5": self.w5,
-                    "w6": self.w6,
-                    "w7": self.w7,
-                    "w8": self.w8,
-                    "w9": self.w9,
-                    "d0": self.d0,
-                    "d1": self.d1,
-                    "d2": self.d2,
-                    "wave": self.wave,
-                    "bar": self.bar,
-                    "cm": self.colormap,
+                    # "im": self.im,
+                    # "mi": self.mi,
+                    # "mm": self.mm,
+                    # "lm": self.lm,
+                    # "btn1": self.btn1,
+                    # "btn2": self.btn2,
+                    # "btn3": self.btn3,
+                    # "btn4": self.btn4,
+                    # "btn5": self.btn5,
+                    # "btn6": self.btn6,
+                    # "pb": self.pb,
+                    # "pi": self.pi,
+                    # "wf": self.wf,
+                    # "scatter": self.scatter,
+                    # "scatter_mi": self.scatter,
+                    # "mwf": self.mwf,
                 }
             )
 
@@ -70,120 +77,85 @@ class JupyterConsoleWindow(QWidget):  # pragma: no cover:
         first_tab_layout.addWidget(self.dock)
         tab_widget.addTab(first_tab, "Dock Area")
 
-        second_tab = QWidget()
-        second_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(second_tab)
-        self.figure = BECFigure(parent=self, gui_id="figure")
-        second_tab_layout.addWidget(self.figure)
-        tab_widget.addTab(second_tab, "BEC Figure")
-
+        # third_tab = QWidget()
+        # third_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(third_tab)
+        # self.lm = LayoutManagerWidget()
+        # third_tab_layout.addWidget(self.lm)
+        # tab_widget.addTab(third_tab, "Layout Manager Widget")
+        #
+        # fourth_tab = QWidget()
+        # fourth_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(fourth_tab)
+        # self.pb = PlotBase()
+        # self.pi = self.pb.plot_item
+        # fourth_tab_layout.addWidget(self.pb)
+        # tab_widget.addTab(fourth_tab, "PlotBase")
+        #
+        # tab_widget.setCurrentIndex(3)
+        #
         group_box = QGroupBox("Jupyter Console", splitter)
         group_box_layout = QVBoxLayout(group_box)
         self.console = BECJupyterConsole(inprocess=True)
         group_box_layout.addWidget(self.console)
+        #
+        # # Some buttons for layout testing
+        # self.btn1 = QPushButton("Button 1")
+        # self.btn2 = QPushButton("Button 2")
+        # self.btn3 = QPushButton("Button 3")
+        # self.btn4 = QPushButton("Button 4")
+        # self.btn5 = QPushButton("Button 5")
+        # self.btn6 = QPushButton("Button 6")
+        #
+        # fifth_tab = QWidget()
+        # fifth_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(fifth_tab)
+        # self.wf = Waveform()
+        # fifth_tab_layout.addWidget(self.wf)
+        # tab_widget.addTab(fifth_tab, "Waveform Next Gen")
+        # tab_widget.setCurrentIndex(4)
+        #
+        # sixth_tab = QWidget()
+        # sixth_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(sixth_tab)
+        # self.im = Image()
+        # self.mi = self.im.main_image
+        # sixth_tab_layout.addWidget(self.im)
+        # tab_widget.addTab(sixth_tab, "Image Next Gen")
+        # tab_widget.setCurrentIndex(5)
+        #
+        # seventh_tab = QWidget()
+        # seventh_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(seventh_tab)
+        # self.scatter = ScatterWaveform()
+        # self.scatter_mi = self.scatter.main_curve
+        # self.scatter.plot("samx", "samy", "bpm4i")
+        # seventh_tab_layout.addWidget(self.scatter)
+        # tab_widget.addTab(seventh_tab, "Scatter Waveform")
+        # tab_widget.setCurrentIndex(6)
+        #
+        # eighth_tab = QWidget()
+        # eighth_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(eighth_tab)
+        # self.mm = MotorMap()
+        # eighth_tab_layout.addWidget(self.mm)
+        # tab_widget.addTab(eighth_tab, "Motor Map")
+        # tab_widget.setCurrentIndex(7)
+        #
+        # ninth_tab = QWidget()
+        # ninth_tab_layout = QVBoxLayout(ninth_tab)
+        # self.mwf = MultiWaveform()
+        # ninth_tab_layout.addWidget(self.mwf)
+        # tab_widget.addTab(ninth_tab, "MultiWaveform")
+        # tab_widget.setCurrentIndex(8)
+        #
+        # # add stuff to the new Waveform widget
+        # self._init_waveform()
+        #
+        # self.setWindowTitle("Jupyter Console Window")
 
-        # add stuff to figure
-        self._init_figure()
-
-        # init dock for testing
-        self._init_dock()
-
-        self.setWindowTitle("Jupyter Console Window")
-
-    def _init_figure(self):
-        self.w1 = self.figure.plot(
-            x_name="samx",
-            y_name="bpm4i",
-            # title="Standard Plot with sync device, custom labels - w1",
-            # x_label="Motor Position",
-            # y_label="Intensity (A.U.)",
-            row=0,
-            col=0,
-        )
-        self.w1.set(
-            title="Standard Plot with sync device, custom labels - w1",
-            x_label="Motor Position",
-            y_label="Intensity (A.U.)",
-        )
-        self.w2 = self.figure.motor_map("samx", "samy", row=0, col=1)
-        self.w3 = self.figure.image(
-            "eiger", color_map="viridis", vrange=(0, 100), title="Eiger Image - w3", row=0, col=2
-        )
-        self.w4 = self.figure.plot(
-            x_name="samx",
-            y_name="samy",
-            z_name="bpm4i",
-            color_map_z="magma",
-            new=True,
-            title="2D scatter plot - w4",
-            row=0,
-            col=3,
-        )
-        self.w5 = self.figure.plot(
-            y_name="bpm4i",
-            new=True,
-            title="Best Effort Plot - w5",
-            dap="GaussianModel",
-            row=1,
-            col=0,
-        )
-        self.w6 = self.figure.plot(
-            x_name="timestamp", y_name="bpm4i", new=True, title="Timestamp Plot - w6", row=1, col=1
-        )
-        self.w7 = self.figure.plot(
-            x_name="index", y_name="bpm4i", new=True, title="Index Plot - w7", row=1, col=2
-        )
-        self.w8 = self.figure.plot(
-            y_name="monitor_async", new=True, title="Async Plot - Best Effort - w8", row=2, col=0
-        )
-        self.w9 = self.figure.plot(
-            x_name="timestamp",
-            y_name="monitor_async",
-            new=True,
-            title="Async Plot - timestamp - w9",
-            row=2,
-            col=1,
-        )
-        self.w10 = self.figure.plot(
-            x_name="index",
-            y_name="monitor_async",
-            new=True,
-            title="Async Plot - index - w10",
-            row=2,
-            col=2,
-        )
-
-    def _init_dock(self):
-
-        self.d0 = self.dock.add_dock(name="dock_0")
-        self.fig0 = self.d0.add_widget("BECFigure")
-        data = np.random.rand(10, 2)
-        self.fig0.plot(data, label="2d Data")
-        self.fig0.image("eiger", vrange=(0, 100))
-
-        self.d1 = self.dock.add_dock(name="dock_1", position="right")
-        self.fig1 = self.d1.add_widget("BECFigure")
-        self.fig1.plot(x_name="samx", y_name="bpm4i")
-        self.fig1.plot(x_name="samx", y_name="bpm3a")
-
-        self.d2 = self.dock.add_dock(name="dock_2", position="bottom")
-        self.wave = self.d2.add_widget("BECWaveformWidget", row=0, col=0)
-        # self.wave.plot(x_name="samx", y_name="bpm3a")
-        # self.wave.plot(x_name="samx", y_name="bpm4i", dap="GaussianModel")
-        self.bar = self.d2.add_widget("RingProgressBar", row=0, col=1)
-        self.bar.set_diameter(200)
-
-        self.d3 = self.dock.add_dock(name="dock_3", position="bottom")
-        self.colormap = pg.GradientWidget()
-        self.d3.add_widget(self.colormap, row=0, col=0)
-
-        self.dock.save_state()
+    def _init_waveform(self):
+        self.wf.plot(y_name="bpm4i", y_entry="bpm4i", dap="GaussianModel")
+        self.wf.plot(y_name="bpm3a", y_entry="bpm3a", dap="GaussianModel")
 
     def closeEvent(self, event):
         """Override to handle things when main window is closed."""
         self.dock.cleanup()
         self.dock.close()
-        self.figure.cleanup()
-        self.figure.close()
         self.console.close()
 
         super().closeEvent(event)
@@ -199,19 +171,16 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     app = QApplication(sys.argv)
     app.setApplicationName("Jupyter Console")
     app.setApplicationDisplayName("Jupyter Console")
-    apply_theme("dark")
-    icon = QIcon()
-    icon.addFile(
-        os.path.join(module_path, "assets", "app_icons", "terminal_icon.png"), size=QSize(48, 48)
-    )
+    icon = material_icon("terminal", color=(255, 255, 255, 255), filled=True)
     app.setWindowIcon(icon)
 
-    bec_dispatcher = BECDispatcher()
+    bec_dispatcher = BECDispatcher(gui_id="jupyter_console")
     client = bec_dispatcher.client
     client.start()
 
     win = JupyterConsoleWindow()
     win.show()
+    win.resize(1500, 800)
 
     app.aboutToQuit.connect(win.close)
     sys.exit(app.exec_())

bec_widgets/examples/plugin_example_pyside/main.py

@@ -7,7 +7,8 @@ import sys
 
 from bec_ipython_client.main import BECIPythonClient
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
-from tictactoe import TicTacToe
+
+from bec_widgets.examples.plugin_example_pyside.tictactoe import TicTacToe
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     app = QApplication(sys.argv)

bec_widgets/examples/plugin_example_pyside/registertictactoe.py

@@ -2,8 +2,9 @@
 # SPDX-License-Identifier: LicenseRef-Qt-Commercial OR BSD-3-Clause
 
 from qtpy.QtDesigner import QPyDesignerCustomWidgetCollection
-from tictactoe import TicTacToe
-from tictactoeplugin import TicTacToePlugin
+
+from bec_widgets.examples.plugin_example_pyside.tictactoe import TicTacToe
+from bec_widgets.examples.plugin_example_pyside.tictactoeplugin import TicTacToePlugin
 
 # Set PYSIDE_DESIGNER_PLUGINS to point to this directory and load the plugin
 

bec_widgets/examples/plugin_example_pyside/tictactoe.py

@@ -16,7 +16,6 @@ class TicTacToe(QWidget):  # pragma: no cover
         super().__init__(parent)
         self._state = DEFAULT_STATE
         self._turn_number = 0
-        print("TicTac HERE !!!!!!")
 
     def minimumSizeHint(self):
         return QSize(200, 200)

bec_widgets/examples/plugin_example_pyside/tictactoeplugin.py

@@ -1,10 +1,13 @@
 # Copyright (C) 2022 The Qt Company Ltd.
 # SPDX-License-Identifier: LicenseRef-Qt-Commercial OR BSD-3-Clause
+import os
 
 from qtpy.QtDesigner import QDesignerCustomWidgetInterface
-from qtpy.QtGui import QIcon
-from tictactoe import TicTacToe
-from tictactoetaskmenu import TicTacToeTaskMenuFactory
+
+import bec_widgets
+from bec_widgets.examples.plugin_example_pyside.tictactoe import TicTacToe
+from bec_widgets.examples.plugin_example_pyside.tictactoetaskmenu import TicTacToeTaskMenuFactory
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_designer import designer_material_icon
 
 DOM_XML = """
 <ui language='c++'>
@@ -24,6 +27,8 @@ DOM_XML = """
 </ui>
 """
 
+MODULE_PATH = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
+
 
 class TicTacToePlugin(QDesignerCustomWidgetInterface):  # pragma: no cover
     def __init__(self):
@@ -38,10 +43,10 @@ class TicTacToePlugin(QDesignerCustomWidgetInterface):  # pragma: no cover
         return DOM_XML
 
     def group(self):
-        return ""
+        return "Games"
 
     def icon(self):
-        return QIcon()
+        return designer_material_icon("sports_esports")
 
     def includeFile(self):
         return "tictactoe"

bec_widgets/examples/plugin_example_pyside/tictactoetaskmenu.py

@@ -1,11 +1,12 @@
 # Copyright (C) 2022 The Qt Company Ltd.
 # SPDX-License-Identifier: LicenseRef-Qt-Commercial OR BSD-3-Clause
 
-from qtpy.QtCore import Slot
 from qtpy.QtDesigner import QExtensionFactory, QPyDesignerTaskMenuExtension
 from qtpy.QtGui import QAction
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QDialog, QDialogButtonBox, QVBoxLayout
-from tictactoe import TicTacToe
+
+from bec_widgets.examples.plugin_example_pyside.tictactoe import TicTacToe
+from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot as Slot
 
 
 class TicTacToeDialog(QDialog):  # pragma: no cover

bec_widgets/qt_utils/toolbar.py

@@ -1,138 +0,0 @@
-# pylint: disable=no-name-in-module
-import os
-from abc import ABC, abstractmethod
-from collections import defaultdict
-
-from qtpy.QtCore import QSize
-from qtpy.QtGui import QAction, QIcon
-from qtpy.QtWidgets import QHBoxLayout, QLabel, QToolBar, QToolButton, QWidget
-
-import bec_widgets
-
-MODULE_PATH = os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)
-
-
-class ToolBarAction(ABC):
-    """
-    Abstract base class for toolbar actions.
-
-    Args:
-        icon_path (str, optional): The name of the icon file from `assets/toolbar_icons`. Defaults to None.
-        tooltip (bool, optional): The tooltip for the action. Defaults to None.
-        checkable (bool, optional): Whether the action is checkable. Defaults to False.
-    """
-
-    def __init__(self, icon_path: str = None, tooltip: str = None, checkable: bool = False):
-        self.icon_path = (
-            os.path.join(MODULE_PATH, "assets", "toolbar_icons", icon_path) if icon_path else None
-        )
-        self.tooltip = tooltip
-        self.checkable = checkable
-        self.action = None
-
-    @abstractmethod
-    def add_to_toolbar(self, toolbar: QToolBar, target: QWidget):
-        """Adds an action or widget to a toolbar.
-
-        Args:
-            toolbar (QToolBar): The toolbar to add the action or widget to.
-            target (QWidget): The target widget for the action.
-        """
-
-
-class SeparatorAction(ToolBarAction):
-    """Separator action for the toolbar."""
-
-    def add_to_toolbar(self, toolbar: QToolBar, target: QWidget):
-        self.separator = QToolButton()
-        self.separator.setFixedSize(2, 22)
-        toolbar.addWidget(self.separator)
-
-
-class IconAction(ToolBarAction):
-    """
-    Action with an icon for the toolbar.
-
-    Args:
-        icon_path (str): The path to the icon file.
-        tooltip (str): The tooltip for the action.
-        checkable (bool, optional): Whether the action is checkable. Defaults to False.
-    """
-
-    def __init__(self, icon_path: str = None, tooltip: str = None, checkable: bool = False):
-        super().__init__(icon_path, tooltip, checkable)
-
-    def add_to_toolbar(self, toolbar: QToolBar, target: QWidget):
-        icon = QIcon()
-        icon.addFile(self.icon_path, size=QSize(20, 20))
-        self.action = QAction(icon, self.tooltip, target)
-        self.action.setCheckable(self.checkable)
-        toolbar.addAction(self.action)
-
-
-class DeviceSelectionAction(ToolBarAction):
-    """
-    Action for selecting a device in a combobox.
-
-    Args:
-        label (str): The label for the combobox.
-        device_combobox (DeviceComboBox): The combobox for selecting the device.
-
-    """
-
-    def __init__(self, label: str, device_combobox):
-        super().__init__()
-        self.label = label
-        self.device_combobox = device_combobox
-        self.device_combobox.currentIndexChanged.connect(lambda: self.set_combobox_style("#ffa700"))
-
-    def add_to_toolbar(self, toolbar, target):
-        widget = QWidget()
-        layout = QHBoxLayout(widget)
-        label = QLabel(f"{self.label}")
-        layout.addWidget(label)
-        layout.addWidget(self.device_combobox)
-        toolbar.addWidget(widget)
-
-    def set_combobox_style(self, color: str):
-        self.device_combobox.setStyleSheet(f"QComboBox {{ background-color: {color}; }}")
-
-
-class ModularToolBar(QToolBar):
-    """Modular toolbar with optional automatic initialization.
-    Args:
-        parent (QWidget, optional): The parent widget of the toolbar. Defaults to None.
-        actions (list[ToolBarAction], optional): A list of action creators to populate the toolbar. Defaults to None.
-        target_widget (QWidget, optional): The widget that the actions will target. Defaults to None.
-        color (str, optional): The background color of the toolbar. Defaults to "black".
-    """
-
-    def __init__(
-        self, parent=None, actions=None, target_widget=None, color: str = "rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)"
-    ):
-        super().__init__(parent)
-
-        self.widgets = defaultdict(dict)
-        self.set_background_color(color)
-
-        if actions is not None and target_widget is not None:
-            self.populate_toolbar(actions, target_widget)
-
-    def populate_toolbar(self, actions: dict, target_widget):
-        """Populates the toolbar with a set of actions.
-
-        Args:
-            actions (list[ToolBarAction]): A list of action creators to populate the toolbar.
-            target_widget (QWidget): The widget that the actions will target.
-        """
-        self.clear()
-        for action_id, action in actions.items():
-            action.add_to_toolbar(self, target_widget)
-            self.widgets[action_id] = action
-
-    def set_background_color(self, color: str):
-        self.setStyleSheet(f"QToolBar {{ background: {color}; }}")
-        self.setIconSize(QSize(20, 20))
-        self.setMovable(False)
-        self.setFloatable(False)
-        self.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)

bec_widgets/tests/utils.py

@@ -0,0 +1,234 @@
+from unittest.mock import MagicMock
+
+from bec_lib.device import Device as BECDevice
+from bec_lib.device import Positioner as BECPositioner
+from bec_lib.device import ReadoutPriority
+from bec_lib.devicemanager import DeviceContainer
+
+
+class FakeDevice(BECDevice):
+    """Fake minimal positioner class for testing."""
+
+    def __init__(self, name, enabled=True, readout_priority=ReadoutPriority.MONITORED):
+        super().__init__(name=name)
+        self._enabled = enabled
+        self.signals = {self.name: {"value": 1.0}}
+        self.description = {self.name: {"source": self.name, "dtype": "number", "shape": []}}
+        self._readout_priority = readout_priority
+        self._config = {
+            "readoutPriority": "baseline",
+            "deviceClass": "ophyd.Device",
+            "deviceConfig": {},
+            "deviceTags": ["user device"],
+            "enabled": enabled,
+            "readOnly": False,
+            "name": self.name,
+        }
+
+    @property
+    def readout_priority(self):
+        return self._readout_priority
+
+    @readout_priority.setter
+    def readout_priority(self, value):
+        self._readout_priority = value
+
+    @property
+    def limits(self) -> tuple[float, float]:
+        return self._limits
+
+    @limits.setter
+    def limits(self, value: tuple[float, float]):
+        self._limits = value
+
+    def __contains__(self, item):
+        return item == self.name
+
+    @property
+    def _hints(self):
+        return [self.name]
+
+    def set_value(self, fake_value: float = 1.0) -> None:
+        """
+        Setup fake value for device readout
+        Args:
+            fake_value(float): Desired fake value
+        """
+        self.signals[self.name]["value"] = fake_value
+
+    def describe(self) -> dict:
+        """
+        Get the description of the device
+        Returns:
+            dict: Description of the device
+        """
+        return self.description
+
+
+class FakePositioner(BECPositioner):
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        name,
+        enabled=True,
+        limits=None,
+        read_value=1.0,
+        readout_priority=ReadoutPriority.MONITORED,
+    ):
+        super().__init__(name=name)
+        # self.limits = limits if limits is not None else [0.0, 0.0]
+        self.read_value = read_value
+        self.setpoint_value = read_value
+        self.motor_is_moving_value = 0
+        self._enabled = enabled
+        self._limits = limits
+        self._readout_priority = readout_priority
+        self.signals = {self.name: {"value": 1.0}}
+        self.description = {self.name: {"source": self.name, "dtype": "number", "shape": []}}
+        self._config = {
+            "readoutPriority": "baseline",
+            "deviceClass": "ophyd_devices.SimPositioner",
+            "deviceConfig": {"delay": 1, "tolerance": 0.01, "update_frequency": 400},
+            "deviceTags": ["user motors"],
+            "enabled": enabled,
+            "readOnly": False,
+            "name": self.name,
+        }
+        self._info = {
+            "signals": {
+                "readback": {"kind_str": "5"},  # hinted
+                "setpoint": {"kind_str": "1"},  # normal
+                "velocity": {"kind_str": "2"},  # config
+            }
+        }
+        self.signals = {
+            self.name: {"value": self.read_value},
+            f"{self.name}_setpoint": {"value": self.setpoint_value},
+            f"{self.name}_motor_is_moving": {"value": self.motor_is_moving_value},
+        }
+
+    @property
+    def readout_priority(self):
+        return self._readout_priority
+
+    @readout_priority.setter
+    def readout_priority(self, value):
+        self._readout_priority = value
+
+    @property
+    def enabled(self) -> bool:
+        return self._enabled
+
+    @enabled.setter
+    def enabled(self, value: bool):
+        self._enabled = value
+
+    @property
+    def limits(self) -> tuple[float, float]:
+        return self._limits
+
+    @limits.setter
+    def limits(self, value: tuple[float, float]):
+        self._limits = value
+
+    def __contains__(self, item):
+        return item == self.name
+
+    @property
+    def _hints(self):
+        return [self.name]
+
+    def set_value(self, fake_value: float = 1.0) -> None:
+        """
+        Setup fake value for device readout
+        Args:
+            fake_value(float): Desired fake value
+        """
+        self.read_value = fake_value
+
+    def describe(self) -> dict:
+        """
+        Get the description of the device
+        Returns:
+            dict: Description of the device
+        """
+        return self.description
+
+    @property
+    def precision(self):
+        return 3
+
+    def set_read_value(self, value):
+        self.read_value = value
+
+    def read(self):
+        return self.signals
+
+    def set_limits(self, limits):
+        self.limits = limits
+
+    def move(self, value, relative=False):
+        """Simulates moving the device to a new position."""
+        if relative:
+            self.read_value += value
+        else:
+            self.read_value = value
+        # Respect the limits
+        self.read_value = max(min(self.read_value, self.limits[1]), self.limits[0])
+
+    @property
+    def readback(self):
+        return MagicMock(get=MagicMock(return_value=self.read_value))
+
+
+class Positioner(FakePositioner):
+    """just placeholder for testing embedded isinstance check in DeviceCombobox"""
+
+    def __init__(self, name="test", limits=None, read_value=1.0):
+        super().__init__(name, limits, read_value)
+
+
+class Device(FakeDevice):
+    """just placeholder for testing embedded isinstance check in DeviceCombobox"""
+
+    def __init__(self, name, enabled=True):
+        super().__init__(name, enabled)
+
+
+class DMMock:
+    def __init__(self):
+        self.devices = DeviceContainer()
+        self.enabled_devices = [device for device in self.devices if device.enabled]
+
+    def add_devives(self, devices: list):
+        for device in devices:
+            self.devices[device.name] = device
+
+
+DEVICES = [
+    FakePositioner("samx", limits=[-10, 10], read_value=2.0),
+    FakePositioner("samy", limits=[-5, 5], read_value=3.0),
+    FakePositioner("samz", limits=[-8, 8], read_value=4.0),
+    FakePositioner("aptrx", limits=None, read_value=4.0),
+    FakePositioner("aptry", limits=None, read_value=5.0),
+    FakeDevice("gauss_bpm"),
+    FakeDevice("gauss_adc1"),
+    FakeDevice("gauss_adc2"),
+    FakeDevice("gauss_adc3"),
+    FakeDevice("bpm4i"),
+    FakeDevice("bpm3a"),
+    FakeDevice("bpm3i"),
+    FakeDevice("eiger", readout_priority=ReadoutPriority.ASYNC),
+    FakeDevice("waveform1d"),
+    FakeDevice("async_device", readout_priority=ReadoutPriority.ASYNC),
+    Positioner("test", limits=[-10, 10], read_value=2.0),
+    Device("test_device"),
+]
+
+
+def check_remote_data_size(widget, plot_name, num_elements):
+    """
+    Check if the remote data has the correct number of elements.
+    Used in the qtbot.waitUntil function.
+    """
+    return len(widget.get_all_data()[plot_name]["x"]) == num_elements

bec_widgets/utils/bec_connector.py

@@ -3,21 +3,29 @@ from __future__ import annotations
 
 import os
 import time
+import traceback
 import uuid
-from typing import Optional
+from datetime import datetime
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Optional
 
-import yaml
+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 QObject, QRunnable, QThreadPool, Signal
-from qtpy.QtCore import Slot as pyqtSlot
+from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, QRunnable, QThreadPool, QTimer, Signal
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
 
-from bec_widgets.cli.rpc_register import RPCRegister
-from bec_widgets.qt_utils.error_popups import ErrorPopupUtility
+from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_register import RPCRegister
+from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import ErrorPopupUtility, SafeSlot
+from bec_widgets.utils.widget_io import WidgetHierarchy
 from bec_widgets.utils.yaml_dialog import load_yaml, load_yaml_gui, save_yaml, save_yaml_gui
 
-BECDispatcher = lazy_import_from("bec_widgets.utils.bec_dispatcher", ("BECDispatcher",))
+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",))
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
 
 
 class ConnectionConfig(BaseModel):
@@ -35,8 +43,7 @@ class ConnectionConfig(BaseModel):
         """Generate a GUI ID if none is provided."""
         if v is None:
             widget_class = values.data["widget_class"]
-            v = f"{widget_class}_{str(time.time())}"
-            return v
+            v = f"{widget_class}_{datetime.now().strftime('%Y_%m_%d_%H_%M_%S_%f')}"
         return v
 
 
@@ -68,22 +75,59 @@ class Worker(QRunnable):
 class BECConnector:
     """Connection mixin class to handle BEC client and device manager"""
 
-    USER_ACCESS = ["_config_dict", "_get_all_rpc"]
+    USER_ACCESS = ["_config_dict", "_get_all_rpc", "_rpc_id"]
     EXIT_HANDLERS = {}
 
-    def __init__(self, client=None, config: ConnectionConfig = None, gui_id: str = None):
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        client=None,
+        config: ConnectionConfig | None = None,
+        gui_id: str | None = None,
+        object_name: str | None = None,
+        parent_dock: BECDock | None = None,  # TODO should go away -> issue created #473
+        root_widget: bool = False,
+        **kwargs,
+    ):
+        """
+        BECConnector mixin class to handle BEC client and device manager.
+
+        Args:
+            client(BECClient, optional): The BEC client.
+            config(ConnectionConfig, optional): The connection configuration with specific gui id.
+            gui_id(str, optional): The GUI ID.
+            object_name(str, optional): The object name.
+            parent_dock(BECDock, optional): The parent dock.# TODO should go away -> issue created #473
+            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.
+            **kwargs:
+        """
+        # Extract object_name from kwargs to not pass it to Qt class
+        object_name = object_name or kwargs.pop("objectName", None)
+        # Ensure the parent is always the first argument for QObject
+        parent = kwargs.pop("parent", None)
+        # This initializes the QObject or any qt related class BECConnector has to be used from this line down with QObject, otherwise hierarchy logic will not work
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, **kwargs)
+
+        assert isinstance(
+            self, QObject
+        ), "BECConnector must be used with a QObject or any qt related class."
+
+        # flag to check if the object was destroyed and its cleanup was called
+        self._destroyed = False
+
         # BEC related connections
         self.bec_dispatcher = BECDispatcher(client=client)
         self.client = self.bec_dispatcher.client if client is None else client
+        self._parent_dock = parent_dock  # TODO also remove at some point -> issue created #473
+        self.rpc_register = RPCRegister()
 
         if not self.client in BECConnector.EXIT_HANDLERS:
             # register function to clean connections at exit;
             # the function depends on BECClient, and BECDispatcher
-            @pyqtSlot()
+            @SafeSlot()
             def terminate(client=self.client, dispatcher=self.bec_dispatcher):
-                print("Disconnecting", repr(dispatcher))
+                logger.info("Disconnecting", repr(dispatcher))
                 dispatcher.disconnect_all()
-                print("Shutting down BEC Client", repr(client))
+                logger.info("Shutting down BEC Client", repr(client))
                 client.shutdown()
 
             BECConnector.EXIT_HANDLERS[self.client] = terminate
@@ -93,30 +137,153 @@ class BECConnector:
             self.config = config
             self.config.widget_class = self.__class__.__name__
         else:
-            print(
+            logger.debug(
                 f"No initial config found for {self.__class__.__name__}.\n"
                 f"Initializing with default config."
             )
             self.config = ConnectionConfig(widget_class=self.__class__.__name__)
 
+        # If the gui_id is passed, it should be respected. However, this should be revisted since
+        # the gui_id has to be unique, and may no longer be.
         if gui_id:
             self.config.gui_id = gui_id
-            self.gui_id = gui_id
+            self.gui_id: str = gui_id  # Keep namespace in sync
         else:
-            self.gui_id = self.config.gui_id
+            self.gui_id: str = self.config.gui_id  # type: ignore
 
-        # register widget to rpc register
-        # be careful: when registering, and the object is not a BECWidget,
-        # cleanup has to called manually since there is no 'closeEvent'
-        self.rpc_register = RPCRegister()
-        self.rpc_register.add_rpc(self)
+        if object_name is not None:
+            self.setObjectName(object_name)
+
+        # 1) If no objectName is set, set the initial name
+        if not self.objectName():
+            self.setObjectName(self.__class__.__name__)
+        self.object_name = self.objectName()
+
+        # 2) Enforce unique objectName among siblings with the same BECConnector parent
+        self.setParent(parent)
+        if isinstance(self.parent(), QObject) and hasattr(self, "cleanup"):
+            self.parent().destroyed.connect(self._run_cleanup_on_deleted_parent)
 
         # Error popups
         self.error_utility = ErrorPopupUtility()
 
         self._thread_pool = QThreadPool.globalInstance()
+        # Store references to running workers so they're not garbage collected prematurely.
+        self._workers = []
 
-    def submit_task(self, fn, *args, on_complete: pyqtSlot = None, **kwargs) -> Worker:
+        # 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
+
+        QTimer.singleShot(0, self._update_object_name)
+
+    @property
+    def parent_id(self) -> str | None:
+        try:
+            if self.root_widget:
+                return None
+            connector_parent = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(self)
+            return connector_parent.gui_id if connector_parent else None
+        except:
+            logger.error(f"Error getting parent_id for {self.__class__.__name__}")
+
+    @SafeSlot()
+    def _run_cleanup_on_deleted_parent(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Run cleanup on the deleted parent.
+        This method is called when the parent is deleted.
+        """
+        if not hasattr(self, "cleanup"):
+            return
+        try:
+            if not self._destroyed:
+                self.cleanup()
+                self._destroyed = True
+        except Exception:
+            content = traceback.format_exc()
+            logger.info(
+                "Failed to run cleanup on deleted parent. "
+                f"This is not necessarily an error as the parent may be deleted before the child and includes already a cleanup. The following exception was raised:\n{content}"
+            )
+
+    def change_object_name(self, name: str) -> None:
+        """
+        Change the object name of the widget. Unregister old name and register the new one.
+
+        Args:
+            name (str): The new object name.
+        """
+        self.rpc_register.remove_rpc(self)
+        self.setObjectName(name.replace("-", "_").replace(" ", "_"))
+        QTimer.singleShot(0, self._update_object_name)
+
+    def _update_object_name(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Enforce a unique object name among siblings and register the object for RPC.
+        This method is called through a single shot timer kicked off in the constructor.
+        """
+        # 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)
+
+    def _enforce_unique_sibling_name(self):
+        """
+        Enforce that this BECConnector has a unique objectName among its siblings.
+
+        Sibling logic:
+          - If there's a nearest BECConnector parent, only compare with children of that parent.
+          - If parent is None (i.e., top-level object), compare with all other top-level BECConnectors.
+        """
+        QApplication.processEvents()
+        parent_bec = WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(self)
+
+        if parent_bec:
+            # We have a parent => only compare with siblings under that parent
+            siblings = parent_bec.findChildren(BECConnector)
+        else:
+            # No parent => treat all top-level BECConnectors as siblings
+            # 1) Gather all BECConnectors from QApplication
+            all_widgets = QApplication.allWidgets()
+            all_bec = [w for w in all_widgets if isinstance(w, BECConnector)]
+            # 2) "Top-level" means closest BECConnector parent is None
+            top_level_bec = [
+                w for w in all_bec if WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(w) is None
+            ]
+            # 3) We are among these top-level siblings
+            siblings = top_level_bec
+
+        # Collect used names among siblings
+        used_names = {sib.objectName() for sib in siblings if sib is not self}
+
+        base_name = self.object_name
+        if base_name not in used_names:
+            # Name is already unique among siblings
+            return
+
+        # Need a suffix to avoid collision
+        counter = 0
+        while True:
+            trial_name = f"{base_name}_{counter}"
+            if trial_name not in used_names:
+                self.setObjectName(trial_name)
+                self.object_name = trial_name
+                break
+            counter += 1
+
+    # pylint: disable=invalid-name
+    def setObjectName(self, name: str) -> None:
+        """
+        Set the object name of the widget.
+
+        Args:
+            name (str): The new object name.
+        """
+        super().setObjectName(name)
+        self.object_name = name
+        if self.rpc_register.object_is_registered(self):
+            self.rpc_register.broadcast()
+
+    def submit_task(self, fn, *args, on_complete: SafeSlot = None, **kwargs) -> Worker:
         """
         Submit a task to run in a separate thread. The task will run the specified
         function with the provided arguments and emit the completed signal when done.
@@ -143,11 +310,14 @@ class BECConnector:
             >>> def on_complete():
             >>>     print("Task complete")
             >>> self.submit_task(my_function, 1, 2, on_complete=on_complete)
-
         """
         worker = Worker(fn, *args, **kwargs)
         if on_complete:
             worker.signals.completed.connect(on_complete)
+        # Keep a reference to the worker so it is not garbage collected.
+        self._workers.append(worker)
+        # When the worker is done, remove it from our list.
+        worker.signals.completed.connect(lambda: self._workers.remove(worker))
         self._thread_pool.start(worker)
         return worker
 
@@ -179,37 +349,39 @@ class BECConnector:
     @_config_dict.setter
     def _config_dict(self, config: BaseModel) -> None:
         """
-        Get the configuration of the widget.
+        Set the configuration of the widget.
 
-        Returns:
-            dict: The configuration of the widget.
+        Args:
+            config (BaseModel): The new configuration model.
         """
         self.config = config
 
+    # FIXME some thoughts are required to decide how thhis should work with rpc registry
     def apply_config(self, config: dict, generate_new_id: bool = True) -> None:
         """
         Apply the configuration to the widget.
 
         Args:
-            config(dict): Configuration settings.
-            generate_new_id(bool): If True, generate a new GUI ID for the widget.
+            config (dict): Configuration settings.
+            generate_new_id (bool): If True, generate a new GUI ID for the widget.
         """
         self.config = ConnectionConfig(**config)
         if generate_new_id is True:
             gui_id = str(uuid.uuid4())
             self.rpc_register.remove_rpc(self)
-            self.set_gui_id(gui_id)
+            self._set_gui_id(gui_id)
             self.rpc_register.add_rpc(self)
         else:
             self.gui_id = self.config.gui_id
 
+    # FIXME some thoughts are required to decide how thhis should work with rpc registry
     def load_config(self, path: str | None = None, gui: bool = False):
         """
         Load the configuration of the widget from YAML.
 
         Args:
-            path(str): Path to the configuration file for non-GUI dialog mode.
-            gui(bool): If True, use the GUI dialog to load the configuration file.
+            path (str | None): Path to the configuration file for non-GUI dialog mode.
+            gui (bool): If True, use the GUI dialog to load the configuration file.
         """
         if gui is True:
             config = load_yaml_gui(self)
@@ -228,8 +400,8 @@ class BECConnector:
         Save the configuration of the widget to YAML.
 
         Args:
-            path(str): Path to save the configuration file for non-GUI dialog mode.
-            gui(bool): If True, use the GUI dialog to save the configuration file.
+            path (str | None): Path to save the configuration file for non-GUI dialog mode.
+            gui (bool): If True, use the GUI dialog to save the configuration file.
         """
         if gui is True:
             save_yaml_gui(self, self._config_dict)
@@ -237,16 +409,15 @@ class BECConnector:
             if path is None:
                 path = os.getcwd()
             file_path = os.path.join(path, f"{self.__class__.__name__}_config.yaml")
-
             save_yaml(file_path, self._config_dict)
 
-    @pyqtSlot(str)
-    def set_gui_id(self, gui_id: str) -> None:
+    # @SafeSlot(str)
+    def _set_gui_id(self, gui_id: str) -> None:
         """
         Set the GUI ID for the widget.
 
         Args:
-            gui_id(str): GUI ID
+            gui_id (str): GUI ID.
         """
         self.config.gui_id = gui_id
         self.gui_id = gui_id
@@ -267,36 +438,84 @@ class BECConnector:
         """Update the client and device manager from BEC and create object for BEC shortcuts.
 
         Args:
-            client: BEC client
+            client: BEC client.
         """
         self.client = client
         self.get_bec_shortcuts()
 
-    @pyqtSlot(ConnectionConfig)  # TODO can be also dict
+    @SafeSlot(ConnectionConfig)  # TODO can be also dict
     def on_config_update(self, config: ConnectionConfig | dict) -> None:
         """
         Update the configuration for the widget.
 
         Args:
-            config(ConnectionConfig): Configuration settings.
+            config (ConnectionConfig | dict): Configuration settings.
         """
+        gui_id = getattr(config, "gui_id", None)
         if isinstance(config, dict):
             config = ConnectionConfig(**config)
-            # TODO add error handler
-
         self.config = config
+        if gui_id and config.gui_id != gui_id:  # Recreating config should not overwrite the gui_id
+            self.config.gui_id = gui_id
+
+    def remove(self):
+        """Cleanup the BECConnector"""
+        # If the widget is attached to a dock, remove it from the dock.
+        # TODO this should be handled by dock and dock are not by BECConnector  -> issue created #473
+        if self._parent_dock is not None:
+            self._parent_dock.delete(self.object_name)
+        # If the widget is from Qt, trigger its close method.
+        elif hasattr(self, "close"):
+            self.close()
+        # If the widget is neither from a Dock nor from Qt, remove it from the RPC registry.
+        # i.e. Curve Item from Waveform
+        else:
+            self.rpc_register.remove_rpc(self)
 
     def get_config(self, dict_output: bool = True) -> dict | BaseModel:
         """
         Get the configuration of the widget.
 
         Args:
-            dict_output(bool): If True, return the configuration as a dictionary. If False, return the configuration as a pydantic model.
+            dict_output (bool): If True, return the configuration as a dictionary.
+                                If False, return the configuration as a pydantic model.
 
         Returns:
-            dict: The configuration of the plot widget.
+            dict | BaseModel: The configuration of the widget.
         """
         if dict_output:
             return self.config.model_dump()
         else:
             return self.config
+
+
+# --- Example usage of BECConnector: running a simple task ---
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    import sys
+
+    # Create a QApplication instance (required for QThreadPool)
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+
+    connector = BECConnector()
+
+    def print_numbers():
+        """
+        Task function that prints numbers 1 to 10 with a 0.5 second delay between each.
+        """
+        for i in range(1, 11):
+            print(i)
+            time.sleep(0.5)
+
+    def task_complete():
+        """
+        Called when the task is complete.
+        """
+        print("Task complete")
+        # Exit the application after the task completes.
+        app.quit()
+
+    # Submit the task using the connector's submit_task method.
+    connector.submit_task(print_numbers, on_complete=task_complete)
+
+    # Start the Qt event loop.
+    sys.exit(app.exec_())

bec_widgets/utils/bec_designer.py

@@ -6,21 +6,38 @@ import sys
 import sysconfig
 from pathlib import Path
 
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
 from qtpy import PYSIDE6
+from qtpy.QtGui import QIcon
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_plugin_helper import user_widget_plugin
 
 if PYSIDE6:
     from PySide6.scripts.pyside_tool import (
         _extend_path_var,
         init_virtual_env,
-        qt_tool_wrapper,
         is_pyenv_python,
         is_virtual_env,
+        qt_tool_wrapper,
         ui_tool_binary,
     )
 
 import bec_widgets
 
 
+def designer_material_icon(icon_name: str) -> QIcon:
+    """
+    Create a QIcon for the BECDesigner with the given material icon name.
+
+    Args:
+        icon_name (str): The name of the material icon.
+
+    Returns:
+        QIcon: The QIcon for the material icon.
+    """
+    return QIcon(material_icon(icon_name, filled=True, convert_to_pixmap=True))
+
+
 def list_editable_packages() -> set[str]:
     """
     List all editable packages in the environment.
@@ -61,7 +78,7 @@ def list_editable_packages() -> set[str]:
     return editable_packages
 
 
-def patch_designer():  # pragma: no cover
+def patch_designer(cmd_args: list[str] = []):  # pragma: no cover
     if not PYSIDE6:
         print("PYSIDE6 is not available in the environment. Cannot patch designer.")
         return
@@ -78,24 +95,31 @@ def patch_designer():  # pragma: no cover
             _extend_path_var("PATH", os.fspath(Path(sys._base_executable).parent), True)
     else:
         if sys.platform == "linux":
-            suffix = f"{sys.abiflags}.so"
             env_var = "LD_PRELOAD"
+            current_pid = os.getpid()
+            with open(f"/proc/{current_pid}/maps", "rt") as f:
+                for line in f:
+                    if "libpython" in line:
+                        lib_path = line.split()[-1]
+                        os.environ[env_var] = lib_path
+                        break
+
         elif sys.platform == "darwin":
             suffix = ".dylib"
             env_var = "DYLD_INSERT_LIBRARIES"
+            version = f"{major_version}.{minor_version}"
+            library_name = f"libpython{version}{suffix}"
+            lib_path = str(Path(sysconfig.get_config_var("LIBDIR")) / library_name)
+            os.environ[env_var] = lib_path
         else:
             raise RuntimeError(f"Unsupported platform: {sys.platform}")
-        version = f"{major_version}.{minor_version}"
-        library_name = f"libpython{version}{suffix}"
-        lib_path = str(Path(sysconfig.get_config_var("LIBDIR")) / library_name)
-        os.environ[env_var] = lib_path
 
         if is_pyenv_python() or is_virtual_env():
             # append all editable packages to the PYTHONPATH
             editable_packages = list_editable_packages()
             for pckg in editable_packages:
                 _extend_path_var("PYTHONPATH", pckg, True)
-    qt_tool_wrapper(ui_tool_binary("designer"), sys.argv[1:])
+    qt_tool_wrapper(ui_tool_binary("designer"), cmd_args)
 
 
 def find_plugin_paths(base_path: Path):
@@ -123,15 +147,24 @@ def set_plugin_environment_variable(plugin_paths):
 
 
 # Patch the designer function
-def main():  # pragma: no cover
+def open_designer(cmd_args: list[str] = []):  # pragma: no cover
     if not PYSIDE6:
         print("PYSIDE6 is not available in the environment. Exiting...")
         return
     base_dir = Path(os.path.dirname(bec_widgets.__file__)).resolve()
+
     plugin_paths = find_plugin_paths(base_dir)
+    if (plugin_repo := user_widget_plugin()) and isinstance(plugin_repo.__file__, str):
+        plugin_repo_dir = Path(os.path.dirname(plugin_repo.__file__)).resolve()
+        plugin_paths.extend(find_plugin_paths(plugin_repo_dir))
+
     set_plugin_environment_variable(plugin_paths)
 
-    patch_designer()
+    patch_designer(cmd_args)
+
+
+def main():
+    open_designer(sys.argv[1:])
 
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover

bec_widgets/utils/bec_dispatcher.py

@@ -1,36 +1,66 @@
 from __future__ import annotations
 
 import collections
+import random
+import string
 from collections.abc import Callable
-from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Union
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, DefaultDict, Hashable, Union
 
+import louie
 import redis
 from bec_lib.client import BECClient
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
 from bec_lib.redis_connector import MessageObject, RedisConnector
 from bec_lib.service_config import ServiceConfig
-from qtpy.QtCore import PYQT6, PYSIDE6, QCoreApplication, QObject
+from qtpy.QtCore import QObject
 from qtpy.QtCore import Signal as pyqtSignal
 
-if TYPE_CHECKING:
+from bec_widgets.utils.serialization import register_serializer_extension
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
     from bec_lib.endpoints import EndpointInfo
 
+    from bec_widgets.utils.rpc_server import RPCServer
+
 
 class QtThreadSafeCallback(QObject):
+    """QtThreadSafeCallback is a wrapper around a callback function to make it thread-safe for Qt."""
+
     cb_signal = pyqtSignal(dict, dict)
 
-    def __init__(self, cb):
+    def __init__(self, cb: Callable, cb_info: dict | None = None):
+        """
+        Initialize the QtThreadSafeCallback.
+
+        Args:
+            cb (Callable): The callback function to be wrapped.
+            cb_info (dict, optional): Additional information about the callback. Defaults to None.
+        """
         super().__init__()
+        self.cb_info = cb_info
 
         self.cb = cb
+        self.cb_ref = louie.saferef.safe_ref(cb)
         self.cb_signal.connect(self.cb)
+        self.topics = set()
 
     def __hash__(self):
         # make 2 differents QtThreadSafeCallback to look
         # identical when used as dictionary keys, if the
         # callback is the same
-        return id(self.cb)
+        return f"{id(self.cb_ref)}{self.cb_info}".__hash__()
+
+    def __eq__(self, other):
+        if not isinstance(other, QtThreadSafeCallback):
+            return False
+        return self.cb_ref == other.cb_ref and self.cb_info == other.cb_info
 
     def __call__(self, msg_content, metadata):
+        if self.cb_ref() is None:
+            # callback has been deleted
+            return
         self.cb_signal.emit(msg_content, metadata)
 
 
@@ -65,32 +95,34 @@ class QtRedisConnector(RedisConnector):
             cb(msg.content, msg.metadata)
 
 
-class BECClientWithoutLoggerInit(BECClient):
-    def _initialize_logger(self):
-        return
-
-
 class BECDispatcher:
     """Utility class to keep track of slots connected to a particular redis connector"""
 
     _instance = None
     _initialized = False
-    qapp = None
+    client: BECClient
+    cli_server: RPCServer | None = None
 
-    def __new__(cls, client=None, config: str = None, *args, **kwargs):
+    def __new__(
+        cls,
+        client=None,
+        config: str | ServiceConfig | None = None,
+        gui_id: str | None = None,
+        *args,
+        **kwargs,
+    ):
         if cls._instance is None:
             cls._instance = super(BECDispatcher, cls).__new__(cls)
             cls._initialized = False
         return cls._instance
 
-    def __init__(self, client=None, config: str | ServiceConfig = None):
+    def __init__(self, client=None, config: str | ServiceConfig | None = None, gui_id: str = None):
         if self._initialized:
             return
 
-        if not QCoreApplication.instance():
-            BECDispatcher.qapp = QCoreApplication([])
-
-        self._slots = collections.defaultdict(set)
+        self._registered_slots: DefaultDict[Hashable, QtThreadSafeCallback] = (
+            collections.defaultdict()
+        )
         self.client = client
 
         if self.client is None:
@@ -98,82 +130,152 @@ class BECDispatcher:
                 if not isinstance(config, ServiceConfig):
                     # config is supposed to be a path
                     config = ServiceConfig(config)
-                self.client = BECClientWithoutLoggerInit(
-                    config=config, connector_cls=QtRedisConnector
-                )  # , forced=True)
-            else:
-                self.client = BECClientWithoutLoggerInit(
-                    connector_cls=QtRedisConnector
-                )  # , forced=True)
+            self.client = BECClient(
+                config=config, connector_cls=QtRedisConnector, name="BECWidgets"
+            )
         else:
             if self.client.started:
                 # have to reinitialize client to use proper connector
+                logger.info("Shutting down BECClient to switch to QtRedisConnector")
                 self.client.shutdown()
             self.client._BECClient__init_params["connector_cls"] = QtRedisConnector
 
         try:
             self.client.start()
         except redis.exceptions.ConnectionError:
-            print("Could not connect to Redis, skipping start of BECClient.")
+            logger.warning("Could not connect to Redis, skipping start of BECClient.")
 
+        register_serializer_extension()
+
+        logger.success("Initialized BECDispatcher")
+
+        self.start_cli_server(gui_id=gui_id)
         self._initialized = True
 
     @classmethod
     def reset_singleton(cls):
+        """
+        Reset the singleton instance of the BECDispatcher.
+        """
         cls._instance = None
         cls._initialized = False
 
-        if not cls.qapp:
-            return
-
-        # shutdown QCoreApp if it exists
-        if PYQT6:
-            cls.qapp.exit()
-        elif PYSIDE6:
-            cls.qapp.shutdown()
-        cls.qapp = None
-
     def connect_slot(
         self,
         slot: Callable,
         topics: Union[EndpointInfo, str, list[Union[EndpointInfo, str]]],
+        cb_info: dict | None = None,
         **kwargs,
     ) -> None:
-        """Connect widget's pyqt slot, so that it is called on new pub/sub topic message.
+        """Connect widget's qt slot, so that it is called on new pub/sub topic message.
 
         Args:
             slot (Callable): A slot method/function that accepts two inputs: content and metadata of
                 the corresponding pub/sub message
             topics (EndpointInfo | str | list): A topic or list of topics that can typically be acquired via bec_lib.MessageEndpoints
+            cb_info (dict | None): A dictionary containing information about the callback. Defaults to None.
         """
-        slot = QtThreadSafeCallback(slot)
-        self.client.connector.register(topics, cb=slot, **kwargs)
+        qt_slot = QtThreadSafeCallback(cb=slot, cb_info=cb_info)
+        if qt_slot not in self._registered_slots:
+            self._registered_slots[qt_slot] = qt_slot
+        qt_slot = self._registered_slots[qt_slot]
+        self.client.connector.register(topics, cb=qt_slot, **kwargs)
         topics_str, _ = self.client.connector._convert_endpointinfo(topics)
-        self._slots[slot].update(set(topics_str))
+        qt_slot.topics.update(set(topics_str))
 
     def disconnect_slot(self, slot: Callable, topics: Union[str, list]):
+        """
+        Disconnect a slot from a topic.
+
+        Args:
+            slot(Callable): The slot to disconnect
+            topics(Union[str, list]): The topic(s) to disconnect from
+        """
         # find the right slot to disconnect from ;
         # slot callbacks are wrapped in QtThreadSafeCallback objects,
         # but the slot we receive here is the original callable
-        for connected_slot in self._slots:
+        for connected_slot in self._registered_slots.values():
             if connected_slot.cb == slot:
                 break
         else:
             return
         self.client.connector.unregister(topics, cb=connected_slot)
         topics_str, _ = self.client.connector._convert_endpointinfo(topics)
-        self._slots[slot].difference_update(set(topics_str))
-        if not self._slots[slot]:
-            del self._slots[slot]
+        self._registered_slots[connected_slot].topics.difference_update(set(topics_str))
+        if not self._registered_slots[connected_slot].topics:
+            del self._registered_slots[connected_slot]
 
     def disconnect_topics(self, topics: Union[str, list]):
+        """
+        Disconnect all slots from a topic.
+
+        Args:
+            topics(Union[str, list]): The topic(s) to disconnect from
+        """
         self.client.connector.unregister(topics)
         topics_str, _ = self.client.connector._convert_endpointinfo(topics)
-        for slot in list(self._slots.keys()):
-            slot_topics = self._slots[slot]
-            slot_topics.difference_update(set(topics_str))
-            if not slot_topics:
-                del self._slots[slot]
+
+        remove_slots = []
+        for connected_slot in self._registered_slots.values():
+            connected_slot.topics.difference_update(set(topics_str))
+
+            if not connected_slot.topics:
+                remove_slots.append(connected_slot)
+
+        for connected_slot in remove_slots:
+            self._registered_slots.pop(connected_slot, None)
 
     def disconnect_all(self, *args, **kwargs):
+        """
+        Disconnect all slots from all topics.
+
+        Args:
+            *args: Arbitrary positional arguments
+            **kwargs: Arbitrary keyword arguments
+        """
+        # pylint: disable=protected-access
         self.disconnect_topics(self.client.connector._topics_cb)
+
+    def start_cli_server(self, gui_id: str | None = None):
+        """
+        Start the CLI server.
+
+        Args:
+            gui_id(str, optional): The GUI ID. Defaults to None. If None, a unique identifier will be generated.
+        """
+        # pylint: disable=import-outside-toplevel
+        from bec_widgets.utils.rpc_server import RPCServer
+
+        if gui_id is None:
+            gui_id = self.generate_unique_identifier()
+
+        if not self.client.started:
+            logger.error("Cannot start CLI server without a running client")
+            return
+        self.cli_server = RPCServer(gui_id, dispatcher=self, client=self.client)
+        logger.success(f"Started CLI server with gui_id: {gui_id}")
+
+    def stop_cli_server(self):
+        """
+        Stop the CLI server.
+        """
+        if self.cli_server is None:
+            logger.error("Cannot stop CLI server without starting it first")
+            return
+        self.cli_server.shutdown()
+        self.cli_server = None
+        logger.success("Stopped CLI server")
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def generate_unique_identifier(length: int = 4) -> str:
+        """
+        Generate a unique identifier for the application.
+
+        Args:
+            length: The length of the identifier. Defaults to 4.
+
+        Returns:
+            str: The unique identifier.
+        """
+        allowed_chars = string.ascii_lowercase + string.digits
+        return "".join(random.choices(allowed_chars, k=length))

bec_widgets/utils/bec_plugin_helper.py

@@ -0,0 +1,89 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import importlib.metadata
+import inspect
+import pkgutil
+from importlib import util as importlib_util
+from importlib.machinery import FileFinder, ModuleSpec, SourceFileLoader
+from types import ModuleType
+from typing import Generator
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
+
+
+def _submodule_specs(module: ModuleType) -> tuple[ModuleSpec | None, ...]:
+    """Return specs for all submodules of the given module."""
+    return tuple(
+        module_info.module_finder.find_spec(module_info.name)
+        for module_info in pkgutil.iter_modules(module.__path__)
+        if isinstance(module_info.module_finder, FileFinder)
+    )
+
+
+def _loaded_submodules_from_specs(
+    submodule_specs: tuple[ModuleSpec | None, ...],
+) -> Generator[ModuleType, None, None]:
+    """Load all submodules from the given specs."""
+    for submodule in (
+        importlib_util.module_from_spec(spec) for spec in submodule_specs if spec is not None
+    ):
+        assert isinstance(
+            submodule.__loader__, SourceFileLoader
+        ), "Module found from FileFinder should have SourceFileLoader!"
+        submodule.__loader__.exec_module(submodule)
+        yield submodule
+
+
+def _submodule_by_name(module: ModuleType, name: str):
+    for submod in _loaded_submodules_from_specs(_submodule_specs(module)):
+        if submod.__name__ == name:
+            return submod
+    return None
+
+
+def _get_widgets_from_module(module: ModuleType) -> dict[str, "type[BECWidget]"]:
+    """Find any BECWidget subclasses in the given module and return them with their names."""
+    from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget  # avoid circular import
+
+    return dict(
+        inspect.getmembers(
+            module,
+            predicate=lambda item: inspect.isclass(item)
+            and issubclass(item, BECWidget)
+            and item is not BECWidget,
+        )
+    )
+
+
+def _all_widgets_from_all_submods(module):
+    """Recursively load submodules, find any BECWidgets, and return them all as a flat dict."""
+    widgets = _get_widgets_from_module(module)
+    if not hasattr(module, "__path__"):
+        return widgets
+    for submod in _loaded_submodules_from_specs(_submodule_specs(module)):
+        widgets.update(_all_widgets_from_all_submods(submod))
+    return widgets
+
+
+def user_widget_plugin() -> ModuleType | None:
+    plugins = importlib.metadata.entry_points(group="bec.widgets.user_widgets")  # type: ignore
+    return None if len(plugins) == 0 else tuple(plugins)[0].load()
+
+
+def get_plugin_client_module() -> ModuleType | None:
+    """If there is a plugin repository installed, return the client module."""
+    return _submodule_by_name(plugin, "client") if (plugin := user_widget_plugin()) else None
+
+
+def get_all_plugin_widgets() -> dict[str, "type[BECWidget]"]:
+    """If there is a plugin repository installed, load all widgets from it."""
+    if plugin := user_widget_plugin():
+        return _all_widgets_from_all_submods(plugin)
+    else:
+        return {}
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    #  print(get_all_plugin_widgets())
+    client = get_plugin_client_module()
+    ...

bec_widgets/utils/bec_signal_proxy.py

@@ -0,0 +1,90 @@
+"""This custom class is a thin wrapper around the SignalProxy class to allow signal calls to be blocked.
+Unblocking the proxy needs to be done through the slot unblock_proxy. The most likely use case for this class is
+when the callback function is potentially initiating a slower progress, i.e. requesting a data analysis routine to
+analyse data. Requesting a new fit may lead to request piling up and an overall slow done of performance. This proxy
+will allow you to decide by yourself when to unblock and execute the callback again."""
+
+from pyqtgraph import SignalProxy
+from qtpy.QtCore import QTimer, Signal
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
+
+
+class BECSignalProxy(SignalProxy):
+    """
+    Thin wrapper around the SignalProxy class to allow signal calls to be blocked,
+    but arguments still being stored.
+
+    Args:
+        *args: Arguments to pass to the SignalProxy class.
+        rateLimit (int): The rateLimit of the proxy.
+        timeout (float): The number of seconds after which the proxy automatically
+                         unblocks if still blocked. Default is 10.0 seconds.
+        **kwargs: Keyword arguments to pass to the SignalProxy class.
+
+    Example:
+        >>> proxy = BECSignalProxy(signal, rate_limit=25, slot=callback)
+    """
+
+    is_blocked = Signal(bool)
+
+    def __init__(self, *args, rateLimit=25, timeout=10.0, **kwargs):
+        super().__init__(*args, rateLimit=rateLimit, **kwargs)
+        self._blocking = False
+        self.old_args = None
+        self.new_args = None
+
+        # Store timeout value (in seconds)
+        self._timeout = timeout
+
+        # Create a single-shot timer for auto-unblocking
+        self._timer = QTimer()
+        self._timer.setSingleShot(True)
+        self._timer.timeout.connect(self._timeout_unblock)
+
+    @property
+    def blocked(self):
+        """Returns if the proxy is blocked"""
+        return self._blocking
+
+    @blocked.setter
+    def blocked(self, value: bool):
+        self._blocking = value
+        self.is_blocked.emit(value)
+
+    def signalReceived(self, *args):
+        """Receive signal, store the args and call signalReceived from the parent class if not blocked"""
+        self.new_args = args
+        if self.blocked is True:
+            return
+        self.blocked = True
+        self.old_args = args
+        super().signalReceived(*args)
+
+        self._timer.start(int(self._timeout * 1000))
+
+    @SafeSlot()
+    def unblock_proxy(self):
+        """Unblock the proxy, and call the signalReceived method in case there was an update of the args."""
+        if self.blocked:
+            self._timer.stop()
+            self.blocked = False
+            if self.new_args != self.old_args:
+                self.signalReceived(*self.new_args)
+
+    @SafeSlot()
+    def _timeout_unblock(self):
+        """
+        Internal method called by the QTimer upon timeout. Unblocks the proxy
+        automatically if it is still blocked.
+        """
+        if self.blocked:
+            self.unblock_proxy()
+
+    def cleanup(self):
+        """
+        Cleanup the proxy by stopping the timer and disconnecting the timeout signal.
+        """
+        self._timer.stop()
+        self._timer.timeout.disconnect(self._timeout_unblock)
+        self._timer.deleteLater()

bec_widgets/utils/bec_widget.py

@@ -1,23 +1,113 @@
-from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
+from __future__ import annotations
 
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
+
+import darkdetect
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, Slot
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
+
+from bec_widgets.cli.rpc.rpc_register import RPCRegister
 from bec_widgets.utils.bec_connector import BECConnector, ConnectionConfig
+from bec_widgets.utils.colors import set_theme
+
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.dock import BECDock
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
 
 
 class BECWidget(BECConnector):
     """Mixin class for all BEC widgets, to handle cleanup"""
 
-    def __init__(self, client=None, config: ConnectionConfig = None, gui_id: str = None):
-        if not isinstance(self, QWidget):
+    # The icon name is the name of the icon in the icon theme, typically a name taken
+    # from fonts.google.com/icons. Override this in subclasses to set the icon name.
+    ICON_NAME = "widgets"
+    USER_ACCESS = ["remove"]
+
+    # pylint: disable=too-many-arguments
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        client=None,
+        config: ConnectionConfig = None,
+        gui_id: str | None = None,
+        theme_update: bool = False,
+        parent_dock: BECDock | None = None,  # TODO should go away -> issue created #473
+        **kwargs,
+    ):
+        """
+        Base class for all BEC widgets. This class should be used as a mixin class for all BEC widgets, e.g.:
+
+
+        >>> class MyWidget(BECWidget, QWidget):
+        >>>     def __init__(self, parent=None, client=None, config=None, gui_id=None):
+        >>>         super().__init__(client=client, config=config, gui_id=gui_id)
+        >>>         QWidget.__init__(self, parent=parent)
+
+
+        Args:
+            client(BECClient, optional): The BEC client.
+            config(ConnectionConfig, optional): The connection configuration.
+            gui_id(str, optional): The GUI ID.
+            theme_update(bool, optional): Whether to subscribe to theme updates. Defaults to False. When set to True, the
+                widget's apply_theme method will be called when the theme changes.
+        """
+
+        super().__init__(
+            client=client, config=config, gui_id=gui_id, parent_dock=parent_dock, **kwargs
+        )
+        if not isinstance(self, QObject):
             raise RuntimeError(f"{repr(self)} is not a subclass of QWidget")
-        super().__init__(client, config, gui_id)
+        app = QApplication.instance()
+        if not hasattr(app, "theme"):
+            # DO NOT SET THE THEME TO AUTO! Otherwise, the qwebengineview will segfault
+            # Instead, we will set the theme to the system setting on startup
+            if darkdetect.isDark():
+                set_theme("dark")
+            else:
+                set_theme("light")
+
+        if theme_update:
+            logger.debug(f"Subscribing to theme updates for {self.__class__.__name__}")
+            self._connect_to_theme_change()
+
+    def _connect_to_theme_change(self):
+        """Connect to the theme change signal."""
+        qapp = QApplication.instance()
+        if hasattr(qapp, "theme_signal"):
+            qapp.theme_signal.theme_updated.connect(self._update_theme)
+
+    def _update_theme(self, theme: str | None = None):
+        """Update the theme."""
+        if theme is None:
+            qapp = QApplication.instance()
+            if hasattr(qapp, "theme"):
+                theme = qapp.theme.theme
+            else:
+                theme = "dark"
+        self.apply_theme(theme)
+
+    @Slot(str)
+    def apply_theme(self, theme: str):
+        """
+        Apply the theme to the widget.
+
+        Args:
+            theme(str, optional): The theme to be applied.
+        """
 
     def cleanup(self):
         """Cleanup the widget."""
-        pass
+        with RPCRegister.delayed_broadcast():
+            # All widgets need to call super().cleanup() in their cleanup method
+            logger.info(f"Registry cleanup for widget {self.__class__.__name__}")
+            self.rpc_register.remove_rpc(self)
 
     def closeEvent(self, event):
-        self.rpc_register.remove_rpc(self)
+        """Wrap the close even to ensure the rpc_register is cleaned up."""
         try:
-            self.cleanup()
+            if not self._destroyed:
+                self.cleanup()
+                self._destroyed = True
         finally:
-            super().closeEvent(event)
+            super().closeEvent(event)  # pylint: disable=no-member

bec_widgets/utils/collapsible_panel_manager.py

@@ -0,0 +1,380 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import sys
+from typing import Literal
+
+import pyqtgraph as pg
+from qtpy.QtCore import Property, QEasingCurve, QObject, QPropertyAnimation
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QApplication,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QMainWindow,
+    QPushButton,
+    QSizePolicy,
+    QVBoxLayout,
+    QWidget,
+)
+from typeguard import typechecked
+
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.layout_manager.layout_manager import LayoutManagerWidget
+
+
+class DimensionAnimator(QObject):
+    """
+    Helper class to animate the size of a panel widget.
+    """
+
+    def __init__(self, panel_widget: QWidget, direction: str):
+        super().__init__()
+        self.panel_widget = panel_widget
+        self.direction = direction
+        self._size = 0
+
+    @Property(int)
+    def panel_width(self):
+        """
+        Returns the current width of the panel widget.
+        """
+        return self._size
+
+    @panel_width.setter
+    def panel_width(self, val: int):
+        """
+        Set the width of the panel widget.
+
+        Args:
+            val(int): The width to set.
+        """
+        self._size = val
+        self.panel_widget.setFixedWidth(val)
+
+    @Property(int)
+    def panel_height(self):
+        """
+        Returns the current height of the panel widget.
+        """
+        return self._size
+
+    @panel_height.setter
+    def panel_height(self, val: int):
+        """
+        Set the height of the panel widget.
+
+        Args:
+            val(int): The height to set.
+        """
+        self._size = val
+        self.panel_widget.setFixedHeight(val)
+
+
+class CollapsiblePanelManager(QObject):
+    """
+    Manager class to handle collapsible panels from a main widget using LayoutManagerWidget.
+    """
+
+    def __init__(self, layout_manager: LayoutManagerWidget, reference_widget: QWidget, parent=None):
+        super().__init__(parent)
+        self.layout_manager = layout_manager
+        self.reference_widget = reference_widget
+        self.animations = {}
+        self.panels = {}
+        self.direction_settings = {
+            "left": {"property": b"maximumWidth", "default_size": 200},
+            "right": {"property": b"maximumWidth", "default_size": 200},
+            "top": {"property": b"maximumHeight", "default_size": 150},
+            "bottom": {"property": b"maximumHeight", "default_size": 150},
+        }
+
+    def add_panel(
+        self,
+        direction: Literal["left", "right", "top", "bottom"],
+        panel_widget: QWidget,
+        target_size: int | None = None,
+        duration: int = 300,
+    ):
+        """
+        Add a panel widget to the layout manager.
+
+        Args:
+            direction(Literal["left", "right", "top", "bottom"]): Direction of the panel.
+            panel_widget(QWidget): The panel widget to add.
+            target_size(int, optional): The target size of the panel. Defaults to None.
+            duration(int): The duration of the animation in milliseconds. Defaults to 300.
+        """
+        if direction not in self.direction_settings:
+            raise ValueError("Direction must be one of 'left', 'right', 'top', 'bottom'.")
+
+        if target_size is None:
+            target_size = self.direction_settings[direction]["default_size"]
+
+        self.layout_manager.add_widget_relative(
+            widget=panel_widget, reference_widget=self.reference_widget, position=direction
+        )
+        panel_widget.setVisible(False)
+
+        # Set initial constraints as flexible
+        if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+            panel_widget.setMaximumWidth(0)
+            panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+        else:
+            panel_widget.setMaximumHeight(0)
+            panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+
+        self.panels[direction] = {
+            "widget": panel_widget,
+            "direction": direction,
+            "target_size": target_size,
+            "duration": duration,
+            "animator": None,
+        }
+
+    def toggle_panel(
+        self,
+        direction: Literal["left", "right", "top", "bottom"],
+        target_size: int | None = None,
+        duration: int | None = None,
+        easing_curve: QEasingCurve = QEasingCurve.InOutQuad,
+        ensure_max: bool = False,
+        scale: float | None = None,
+        animation: bool = True,
+    ):
+        """
+        Toggle the specified panel.
+
+        Parameters:
+            direction (Literal["left", "right", "top", "bottom"]): Direction of the panel to toggle.
+            target_size (int, optional): Override target size for this toggle.
+            duration (int, optional): Override the animation duration.
+            easing_curve (QEasingCurve): Animation easing curve.
+            ensure_max (bool): If True, animate as a fixed-size panel.
+            scale (float, optional): If provided, calculate target_size from main widget size.
+            animation (bool): If False, no animation is performed; panel instantly toggles.
+        """
+        if direction not in self.panels:
+            raise ValueError(f"No panel found in direction '{direction}'.")
+
+        panel_info = self.panels[direction]
+        panel_widget = panel_info["widget"]
+        dir_settings = self.direction_settings[direction]
+
+        # Determine final target size
+        if scale is not None:
+            main_rect = self.reference_widget.geometry()
+            if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+                computed_target = int(main_rect.width() * scale)
+            else:
+                computed_target = int(main_rect.height() * scale)
+            final_target_size = computed_target
+        else:
+            if target_size is None:
+                final_target_size = panel_info["target_size"]
+            else:
+                final_target_size = target_size
+
+        if duration is None:
+            duration = panel_info["duration"]
+
+        expanding_property = dir_settings["property"]
+        currently_visible = panel_widget.isVisible()
+
+        if ensure_max:
+            if panel_info["animator"] is None:
+                panel_info["animator"] = DimensionAnimator(panel_widget, direction)
+            animator = panel_info["animator"]
+
+            if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+                prop_name = b"panel_width"
+            else:
+                prop_name = b"panel_height"
+        else:
+            animator = None
+            prop_name = expanding_property
+
+        if currently_visible:
+            # Hide the panel
+            if ensure_max:
+                start_value = final_target_size
+                end_value = 0
+                finish_callback = lambda w=panel_widget, d=direction: self._after_hide_reset(w, d)
+            else:
+                start_value = (
+                    panel_widget.width()
+                    if direction in ["left", "right"]
+                    else panel_widget.height()
+                )
+                end_value = 0
+                finish_callback = lambda w=panel_widget: w.setVisible(False)
+        else:
+            # Show the panel
+            start_value = 0
+            end_value = final_target_size
+            finish_callback = None
+            if ensure_max:
+                # Fix panel exactly
+                if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+                    panel_widget.setMinimumWidth(0)
+                    panel_widget.setMaximumWidth(final_target_size)
+                    panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+                else:
+                    panel_widget.setMinimumHeight(0)
+                    panel_widget.setMaximumHeight(final_target_size)
+                    panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Fixed)
+            else:
+                # Flexible mode
+                if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+                    panel_widget.setMinimumWidth(0)
+                    panel_widget.setMaximumWidth(final_target_size)
+                    panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+                else:
+                    panel_widget.setMinimumHeight(0)
+                    panel_widget.setMaximumHeight(final_target_size)
+                    panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+
+            panel_widget.setVisible(True)
+
+        if not animation:
+            # No animation: instantly set final state
+            if end_value == 0:
+                # Hiding
+                if ensure_max:
+                    # Reset after hide
+                    self._after_hide_reset(panel_widget, direction)
+                else:
+                    panel_widget.setVisible(False)
+            else:
+                # Showing
+                if ensure_max:
+                    # Already set fixed size
+                    if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+                        panel_widget.setFixedWidth(end_value)
+                    else:
+                        panel_widget.setFixedHeight(end_value)
+                else:
+                    # Just set maximum dimension
+                    if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+                        panel_widget.setMaximumWidth(end_value)
+                    else:
+                        panel_widget.setMaximumHeight(end_value)
+            return
+
+        # With animation
+        animation = QPropertyAnimation(animator if ensure_max else panel_widget, prop_name)
+        animation.setDuration(duration)
+        animation.setStartValue(start_value)
+        animation.setEndValue(end_value)
+        animation.setEasingCurve(easing_curve)
+
+        if end_value == 0 and finish_callback:
+            animation.finished.connect(finish_callback)
+        elif end_value == 0 and not finish_callback:
+            animation.finished.connect(lambda w=panel_widget: w.setVisible(False))
+
+        animation.start()
+        self.animations[panel_widget] = animation
+
+    @typechecked
+    def _after_hide_reset(
+        self, panel_widget: QWidget, direction: Literal["left", "right", "top", "bottom"]
+    ):
+        """
+        Reset the panel widget after hiding it in ensure_max mode.
+
+        Args:
+            panel_widget(QWidget): The panel widget to reset.
+            direction(Literal["left", "right", "top", "bottom"]): The direction of the panel.
+        """
+        # Called after hiding a panel in ensure_max mode
+        panel_widget.setVisible(False)
+        if direction in ["left", "right"]:
+            panel_widget.setMinimumWidth(0)
+            panel_widget.setMaximumWidth(0)
+            panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+        else:
+            panel_widget.setMinimumHeight(0)
+            panel_widget.setMaximumHeight(16777215)
+            panel_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+
+
+####################################################################################################
+# The following code is for the GUI control panel to interact with the CollapsiblePanelManager.
+# It is not covered by any tests as it serves only as an example for the CollapsiblePanelManager class.
+####################################################################################################
+
+
+class MainWindow(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
+    def __init__(self):
+        super().__init__()
+        self.setWindowTitle("Panels with ensure_max, scale, and animation toggle")
+        self.resize(800, 600)
+
+        central_widget = QWidget()
+        self.setCentralWidget(central_widget)
+        main_layout = QVBoxLayout(central_widget)
+        main_layout.setContentsMargins(10, 10, 10, 10)
+        main_layout.setSpacing(10)
+
+        # Buttons
+        buttons_layout = QHBoxLayout()
+        self.btn_left = QPushButton("Toggle Left (ensure_max=True)")
+        self.btn_top = QPushButton("Toggle Top (scale=0.5, no animation)")
+        self.btn_right = QPushButton("Toggle Right (ensure_max=True, scale=0.3)")
+        self.btn_bottom = QPushButton("Toggle Bottom (no animation)")
+
+        buttons_layout.addWidget(self.btn_left)
+        buttons_layout.addWidget(self.btn_top)
+        buttons_layout.addWidget(self.btn_right)
+        buttons_layout.addWidget(self.btn_bottom)
+
+        main_layout.addLayout(buttons_layout)
+
+        self.layout_manager = LayoutManagerWidget()
+        main_layout.addWidget(self.layout_manager)
+
+        # Main widget
+        self.main_plot = pg.PlotWidget()
+        self.main_plot.plot([1, 2, 3, 4], [4, 3, 2, 1])
+        self.layout_manager.add_widget(self.main_plot, 0, 0)
+
+        self.panel_manager = CollapsiblePanelManager(self.layout_manager, self.main_plot)
+
+        # Panels
+        self.left_panel = pg.PlotWidget()
+        self.left_panel.plot([1, 2, 3], [3, 2, 1])
+        self.panel_manager.add_panel("left", self.left_panel, target_size=200)
+
+        self.right_panel = pg.PlotWidget()
+        self.right_panel.plot([10, 20, 30], [1, 10, 1])
+        self.panel_manager.add_panel("right", self.right_panel, target_size=200)
+
+        self.top_panel = pg.PlotWidget()
+        self.top_panel.plot([1, 2, 3], [1, 2, 3])
+        self.panel_manager.add_panel("top", self.top_panel, target_size=150)
+
+        self.bottom_panel = pg.PlotWidget()
+        self.bottom_panel.plot([2, 4, 6], [10, 5, 10])
+        self.panel_manager.add_panel("bottom", self.bottom_panel, target_size=150)
+
+        # Connect buttons
+        # Left with ensure_max
+        self.btn_left.clicked.connect(
+            lambda: self.panel_manager.toggle_panel("left", ensure_max=True)
+        )
+        # Top with scale=0.5 and no animation
+        self.btn_top.clicked.connect(
+            lambda: self.panel_manager.toggle_panel("top", scale=0.5, animation=False)
+        )
+        # Right with ensure_max, scale=0.3
+        self.btn_right.clicked.connect(
+            lambda: self.panel_manager.toggle_panel("right", ensure_max=True, scale=0.3)
+        )
+        # Bottom no animation
+        self.btn_bottom.clicked.connect(
+            lambda: self.panel_manager.toggle_panel("bottom", target_size=100, animation=False)
+        )
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+    w = MainWindow()
+    w.show()
+    sys.exit(app.exec())

bec_widgets/utils/colors.py

@@ -1,36 +1,136 @@
-import itertools
-import re
-from typing import Literal
+from __future__ import annotations
 
+import re
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Literal
+
+import bec_qthemes
 import numpy as np
 import pyqtgraph as pg
-import qdarkstyle
+from bec_qthemes._os_appearance.listener import OSThemeSwitchListener
 from pydantic_core import PydanticCustomError
-from qdarkstyle import DarkPalette, LightPalette
 from qtpy.QtGui import QColor
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
 
-CURRENT_THEME = "dark"
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_qthemes._main import AccentColors
 
 
 def get_theme_palette():
-    return DarkPalette if CURRENT_THEME == "dark" else LightPalette
+    if QApplication.instance() is None or not hasattr(QApplication.instance(), "theme"):
+        theme = "dark"
+    else:
+        theme = QApplication.instance().theme.theme
+    return bec_qthemes.load_palette(theme)
+
+
+def get_accent_colors() -> AccentColors | None:
+    """
+    Get the accent colors for the current theme. These colors are extensions of the color palette
+    and are used to highlight specific elements in the UI.
+    """
+    if QApplication.instance() is None or not hasattr(QApplication.instance(), "theme"):
+        return None
+    return QApplication.instance().theme.accent_colors
+
+
+def _theme_update_callback():
+    """
+    Internal callback function to update the theme based on the system theme.
+    """
+    app = QApplication.instance()
+    # pylint: disable=protected-access
+    app.theme.theme = app.os_listener._theme.lower()
+    app.theme_signal.theme_updated.emit(app.theme.theme)
+    apply_theme(app.os_listener._theme.lower())
+
+
+def set_theme(theme: Literal["dark", "light", "auto"]):
+    """
+    Set the theme for the application.
+
+    Args:
+        theme (Literal["dark", "light", "auto"]): The theme to set. "auto" will automatically switch between dark and light themes based on the system theme.
+    """
+    app = QApplication.instance()
+    bec_qthemes.setup_theme(theme, install_event_filter=False)
+
+    app.theme_signal.theme_updated.emit(theme)
+    apply_theme(theme)
+
+    if theme != "auto":
+        return
+
+    if not hasattr(app, "os_listener") or app.os_listener is None:
+        app.os_listener = OSThemeSwitchListener(_theme_update_callback)
+        app.installEventFilter(app.os_listener)
 
 
 def apply_theme(theme: Literal["dark", "light"]):
-    global CURRENT_THEME
-    CURRENT_THEME = theme
-
+    """
+    Apply the theme to all pyqtgraph widgets. Do not use this function directly. Use set_theme instead.
+    """
     app = QApplication.instance()
-    # go through all pyqtgraph widgets and set background
-    children = itertools.chain.from_iterable(
-        top.findChildren(pg.GraphicsLayoutWidget) for top in app.topLevelWidgets()
-    )
-    for pg_widget in children:
-        pg_widget.setBackground("k" if theme == "dark" else "w")
+    graphic_layouts = [
+        child
+        for top in app.topLevelWidgets()
+        for child in top.findChildren(pg.GraphicsLayoutWidget)
+    ]
+
+    plot_items = [
+        item
+        for gl in graphic_layouts
+        for item in gl.ci.items.keys()  # ci is internal pg.GraphicsLayout that hosts all items
+        if isinstance(item, pg.PlotItem)
+    ]
+
+    histograms = [
+        item
+        for gl in graphic_layouts
+        for item in gl.ci.items.keys()  # ci is internal pg.GraphicsLayout that hosts all items
+        if isinstance(item, pg.HistogramLUTItem)
+    ]
+
+    # Update background color based on the theme
+    if theme == "light":
+        background_color = "#e9ecef"  # Subtle contrast for light mode
+        foreground_color = "#141414"
+        label_color = "#000000"
+        axis_color = "#666666"
+    else:
+        background_color = "#141414"  # Dark mode
+        foreground_color = "#e9ecef"
+        label_color = "#FFFFFF"
+        axis_color = "#CCCCCC"
+
+    # update GraphicsLayoutWidget
+    pg.setConfigOptions(foreground=foreground_color, background=background_color)
+    for pg_widget in graphic_layouts:
+        pg_widget.setBackground(background_color)
+
+    # update PlotItems
+    for plot_item in plot_items:
+        for axis in ["left", "right", "top", "bottom"]:
+            plot_item.getAxis(axis).setPen(pg.mkPen(color=axis_color))
+            plot_item.getAxis(axis).setTextPen(pg.mkPen(color=label_color))
+
+        # Change title color
+        plot_item.titleLabel.setText(plot_item.titleLabel.text, color=label_color)
+
+        # Change legend color
+        if hasattr(plot_item, "legend") and plot_item.legend is not None:
+            plot_item.legend.setLabelTextColor(label_color)
+            # if legend is in plot item and theme is changed, has to be like that because of pg opt logic
+            for sample, label in plot_item.legend.items:
+                label_text = label.text
+                label.setText(label_text, color=label_color)
+
+    # update HistogramLUTItem
+    for histogram in histograms:
+        histogram.axis.setPen(pg.mkPen(color=axis_color))
+        histogram.axis.setTextPen(pg.mkPen(color=label_color))
 
     # now define stylesheet according to theme and apply it
-    style = qdarkstyle.load_stylesheet(palette=get_theme_palette())
+    style = bec_qthemes.load_stylesheet(theme)
     app.setStyleSheet(style)
 
 
@@ -55,9 +155,98 @@ class Colors:
             angles.append(angle)
         return angles
 
+    @staticmethod
+    def set_theme_offset(theme: Literal["light", "dark"] | None = None, offset=0.2) -> tuple:
+        """
+        Set the theme offset to avoid colors too close to white or black with light or dark theme respectively for pyqtgraph plot background.
+
+        Args:
+            theme(str): The theme to be applied.
+            offset(float): Offset to avoid colors too close to white or black with light or dark theme respectively for pyqtgraph plot background.
+
+        Returns:
+            tuple: Tuple of min_pos and max_pos.
+
+        Raises:
+            ValueError: If theme_offset is not between 0 and 1.
+        """
+
+        if offset < 0 or offset > 1:
+            raise ValueError("theme_offset must be between 0 and 1")
+
+        if theme is None:
+            app = QApplication.instance()
+            if hasattr(app, "theme"):
+                theme = app.theme.theme
+
+        if theme == "light":
+            min_pos = 0.0
+            max_pos = 1 - offset
+        else:
+            min_pos = 0.0 + offset
+            max_pos = 1.0
+
+        return min_pos, max_pos
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def evenly_spaced_colors(
+        colormap: str,
+        num: int,
+        format: Literal["QColor", "HEX", "RGB"] = "QColor",
+        theme_offset=0.2,
+        theme: Literal["light", "dark"] | None = None,
+    ) -> list:
+        """
+        Extract `num` colors from the specified colormap, evenly spaced along its range,
+        and return them in the specified format.
+
+        Args:
+            colormap (str): Name of the colormap.
+            num (int): Number of requested colors.
+            format (Literal["QColor","HEX","RGB"]): The format of the returned colors ('RGB', 'HEX', 'QColor').
+            theme_offset (float): Has to be between 0-1. Offset to avoid colors too close to white or black with light or dark theme respectively for pyqtgraph plot background.
+            theme (Literal['light', 'dark'] | None): The theme to be applied. Overrides the QApplication theme if specified.
+
+        Returns:
+            list: List of colors in the specified format.
+
+        Raises:
+            ValueError: If theme_offset is not between 0 and 1.
+        """
+        if theme_offset < 0 or theme_offset > 1:
+            raise ValueError("theme_offset must be between 0 and 1")
+
+        cmap = pg.colormap.get(colormap)
+        min_pos, max_pos = Colors.set_theme_offset(theme, theme_offset)
+
+        # Generate positions that are evenly spaced within the acceptable range
+        if num == 1:
+            positions = np.array([(min_pos + max_pos) / 2])
+        else:
+            positions = np.linspace(min_pos, max_pos, num)
+
+        # Sample colors from the colormap at the calculated positions
+        colors = cmap.map(positions, mode="float")
+        color_list = []
+
+        for color in colors:
+            if format.upper() == "HEX":
+                color_list.append(QColor.fromRgbF(*color).name())
+            elif format.upper() == "RGB":
+                color_list.append(tuple((np.array(color) * 255).astype(int)))
+            elif format.upper() == "QCOLOR":
+                color_list.append(QColor.fromRgbF(*color))
+            else:
+                raise ValueError("Unsupported format. Please choose 'RGB', 'HEX', or 'QColor'.")
+        return color_list
+
     @staticmethod
     def golden_angle_color(
-        colormap: str, num: int, format: Literal["QColor", "HEX", "RGB"] = "QColor"
+        colormap: str,
+        num: int,
+        format: Literal["QColor", "HEX", "RGB"] = "QColor",
+        theme_offset=0.2,
+        theme: Literal["dark", "light"] | None = None,
     ) -> list:
         """
         Extract num colors from the specified colormap following golden angle distribution and return them in the specified format.
@@ -66,33 +255,39 @@ class Colors:
             colormap (str): Name of the colormap.
             num (int): Number of requested colors.
             format (Literal["QColor","HEX","RGB"]): The format of the returned colors ('RGB', 'HEX', 'QColor').
+            theme_offset (float): Has to be between 0-1. Offset to avoid colors too close to white or black with light or dark theme respectively for pyqtgraph plot background.
 
         Returns:
             list: List of colors in the specified format.
 
         Raises:
-            ValueError: If the number of requested colors is greater than the number of colors in the colormap.
+            ValueError: If theme_offset is not between 0 and 1.
         """
+
         cmap = pg.colormap.get(colormap)
-        cmap_colors = cmap.getColors(mode="float")
-        if num > len(cmap_colors):
-            raise ValueError(
-                f"Number of colors requested ({num}) is greater than the number of colors in the colormap ({len(cmap_colors)})"
-            )
-        angles = Colors.golden_ratio(len(cmap_colors))
-        color_selection = np.round(np.interp(angles, (-np.pi, np.pi), (0, len(cmap_colors))))
-        colors = []
-        for ii in color_selection[:num]:
-            color = cmap_colors[int(ii)]
+        phi = (1 + np.sqrt(5)) / 2  # Golden ratio
+        golden_angle_conjugate = 1 - (1 / phi)  # Approximately 0.38196601125
+
+        min_pos, max_pos = Colors.set_theme_offset(theme, theme_offset)
+
+        # Generate positions within the acceptable range
+        positions = np.mod(np.arange(num) * golden_angle_conjugate, 1)
+        positions = min_pos + positions * (max_pos - min_pos)
+
+        # Sample colors from the colormap at the calculated positions
+        colors = cmap.map(positions, mode="float")
+        color_list = []
+
+        for color in colors:
             if format.upper() == "HEX":
-                colors.append(QColor.fromRgbF(*color).name())
+                color_list.append(QColor.fromRgbF(*color).name())
             elif format.upper() == "RGB":
-                colors.append(tuple((np.array(color) * 255).astype(int)))
+                color_list.append(tuple((np.array(color) * 255).astype(int)))
             elif format.upper() == "QCOLOR":
-                colors.append(QColor.fromRgbF(*color))
+                color_list.append(QColor.fromRgbF(*color))
             else:
                 raise ValueError("Unsupported format. Please choose 'RGB', 'HEX', or 'QColor'.")
-        return colors
+        return color_list
 
     @staticmethod
     def hex_to_rgba(hex_color: str, alpha=255) -> tuple:
@@ -321,7 +516,7 @@ class Colors:
             return color
 
     @staticmethod
-    def validate_color_map(color_map: str) -> str:
+    def validate_color_map(color_map: str, return_error: bool = True) -> str | bool:
         """
         Validate the colormap input if it is supported by pyqtgraph. Can be used in any pydantic model as a field validator. If validation fails it prints all available colormaps from pyqtgraph instance.
 
@@ -329,13 +524,24 @@ class Colors:
             color_map(str): The colormap to be validated.
 
         Returns:
-            str: The validated colormap.
+            str: The validated colormap, if colormap is valid.
+            bool: False, if colormap is invalid.
+
+        Raises:
+            PydanticCustomError: If colormap is invalid.
         """
-        available_colormaps = pg.colormap.listMaps()
+        available_pg_maps = pg.colormap.listMaps()
+        available_mpl_maps = pg.colormap.listMaps("matplotlib")
+        available_mpl_colorcet = pg.colormap.listMaps("colorcet")
+
+        available_colormaps = available_pg_maps + available_mpl_maps + available_mpl_colorcet
         if color_map not in available_colormaps:
-            raise PydanticCustomError(
-                "unsupported colormap",
-                f"Colormap '{color_map}' not found in the current installation of pyqtgraph. Choose on the following: {available_colormaps}.",
-                {"wrong_value": color_map},
-            )
+            if return_error:
+                raise PydanticCustomError(
+                    "unsupported colormap",
+                    f"Colormap '{color_map}' not found in the current installation of pyqtgraph. Choose on the following: {available_colormaps}.",
+                    {"wrong_value": color_map},
+                )
+            else:
+                return False
         return color_map

bec_widgets/utils/compact_popup.py

@@ -0,0 +1,270 @@
+import time
+from types import SimpleNamespace
+
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
+from qtpy.QtCore import Property, Qt, Signal
+from qtpy.QtGui import QColor
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QDialog,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QLabel,
+    QPushButton,
+    QSizePolicy,
+    QSpacerItem,
+    QVBoxLayout,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.colors import get_accent_colors
+
+
+class LedLabel(QLabel):
+    success_led = "color: white;border-radius: 10;background-color: qlineargradient(spread:pad, x1:0.145, y1:0.16, x2:1, y2:1, stop:0 %s, stop:1 %s);"
+    emergency_led = "color: white;border-radius: 10;background-color: qlineargradient(spread:pad, x1:0.145, y1:0.16, x2:0.92, y2:0.988636, stop:0 %s, stop:1 %s);"
+    warning_led = "color: white;border-radius: 10;background-color: qlineargradient(spread:pad, x1:0.232, y1:0.272, x2:0.98, y2:0.959773, stop:0 %s, stop:1 %s);"
+    default_led = "color: white;border-radius: 10;background-color: qlineargradient(spread:pad, x1:0.04, y1:0.0565909, x2:0.799, y2:0.795, stop:0 %s, stop:1 %s);"
+
+    def __init__(self, parent=None):
+        super().__init__(parent)
+
+        self.palette = get_accent_colors()
+        if self.palette is None:
+            # no theme!
+            self.palette = SimpleNamespace(
+                default=QColor("blue"),
+                success=QColor("green"),
+                warning=QColor("orange"),
+                emergency=QColor("red"),
+            )
+        self.setState("default")
+        self.setFixedSize(20, 20)
+
+    def setState(self, state: str):
+        match state:
+            case "success":
+                r, g, b, a = self.palette.success.getRgb()
+                self.setStyleSheet(
+                    LedLabel.success_led
+                    % (
+                        f"rgba({r},{g},{b},{a})",
+                        f"rgba({int(r*0.8)},{int(g*0.8)},{int(b*0.8)},{a})",
+                    )
+                )
+            case "default":
+                r, g, b, a = self.palette.default.getRgb()
+                self.setStyleSheet(
+                    LedLabel.default_led
+                    % (
+                        f"rgba({r},{g},{b},{a})",
+                        f"rgba({int(r*0.8)},{int(g*0.8)},{int(b*0.8)},{a})",
+                    )
+                )
+            case "warning":
+                r, g, b, a = self.palette.warning.getRgb()
+                self.setStyleSheet(
+                    LedLabel.warning_led
+                    % (
+                        f"rgba({r},{g},{b},{a})",
+                        f"rgba({int(r*0.8)},{int(g*0.8)},{int(b*0.8)},{a})",
+                    )
+                )
+            case "emergency":
+                r, g, b, a = self.palette.emergency.getRgb()
+                self.setStyleSheet(
+                    LedLabel.emergency_led
+                    % (
+                        f"rgba({r},{g},{b},{a})",
+                        f"rgba({int(r*0.8)},{int(g*0.8)},{int(b*0.8)},{a})",
+                    )
+                )
+            case unknown_state:
+                raise ValueError(
+                    f"Unknown state {repr(unknown_state)}, must be one of default, success, warning or emergency"
+                )
+
+
+class PopupDialog(QDialog):
+    def __init__(self, content_widget):
+        self.parent = content_widget.parent()
+        self.content_widget = content_widget
+
+        super().__init__(self.parent)
+
+        self.setAttribute(Qt.WA_DeleteOnClose)
+
+        self.content_widget.setParent(self)
+        QVBoxLayout(self)
+        self.layout().addWidget(self.content_widget)
+        self.content_widget.setVisible(True)
+
+    def closeEvent(self, event):
+        self.content_widget.setVisible(False)
+        self.content_widget.setParent(self.parent)
+        self.done(True)
+
+
+class CompactPopupWidget(QWidget):
+    """Container widget, that can display its content or have a compact form,
+    in this case clicking on a small button pops the contained widget up.
+
+    In the compact form, a LED-like indicator shows a status indicator.
+    """
+
+    expand = Signal(bool)
+
+    def __init__(self, parent=None, layout=QVBoxLayout):
+        super().__init__(parent)
+
+        self._popup_window = None
+        self._expand_popup = True
+
+        QVBoxLayout(self)
+        self.compact_view_widget = QWidget(self)
+        self.compact_view_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Fixed)
+        QHBoxLayout(self.compact_view_widget)
+        self.compact_view_widget.layout().setSpacing(0)
+        self.compact_view_widget.layout().setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        self.compact_view_widget.layout().addSpacerItem(
+            QSpacerItem(0, 0, QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Fixed)
+        )
+        self.compact_label = QLabel(self.compact_view_widget)
+        self.compact_status = LedLabel(self.compact_view_widget)
+        self.compact_show_popup = QPushButton(self.compact_view_widget)
+        self.compact_show_popup.setFlat(True)
+        self.compact_show_popup.setIcon(
+            material_icon(icon_name="expand_content", size=(10, 10), convert_to_pixmap=False)
+        )
+        self.compact_view_widget.layout().addWidget(self.compact_label)
+        self.compact_view_widget.layout().addWidget(self.compact_status)
+        self.compact_view_widget.layout().addWidget(self.compact_show_popup)
+        self.compact_view_widget.setVisible(False)
+        self.layout().addWidget(self.compact_view_widget)
+        self.container = QWidget(self)
+        self.layout().addWidget(self.container)
+        self.container.setVisible(True)
+        layout(self.container)
+        self.layout = self.container.layout()
+
+        self.compact_show_popup.clicked.connect(self.show_popup)
+
+    def set_global_state(self, state: str):
+        """Set the LED-indicator state
+
+        The LED indicator represents the 'global' state. State can be one of the
+        following: "default", "success", "warning", "emergency"
+        """
+        self.compact_status.setState(state)
+
+    def show_popup(self):
+        """Display the contained widgets in a popup dialog"""
+        if self._expand_popup:
+            # show popup
+            self._popup_window = PopupDialog(self.container)
+            self._popup_window.show()
+            self._popup_window.finished.connect(lambda: self.expand.emit(False))
+            self.expand.emit(True)
+        else:
+            if self.compact_view:
+                # expand in place
+                self.compact_view = False
+                self.compact_view_widget.setVisible(True)
+                self.compact_label.setVisible(False)
+                self.compact_status.setVisible(False)
+                self.compact_show_popup.setIcon(
+                    material_icon(
+                        icon_name="collapse_content", size=(10, 10), convert_to_pixmap=False
+                    )
+                )
+                self.expand.emit(True)
+            else:
+                # back to compact form
+                self.compact_label.setVisible(True)
+                self.compact_status.setVisible(True)
+                self.compact_show_popup.setIcon(
+                    material_icon(
+                        icon_name="expand_content", size=(10, 10), convert_to_pixmap=False
+                    )
+                )
+                self.compact_view = True
+                self.expand.emit(False)
+
+    def setSizePolicy(self, size_policy1, size_policy2=None):
+        # setting size policy on the compact popup widget will set
+        # the policy for the container, and for itself
+        if size_policy2 is None:
+            # assuming first form: setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy)
+            self.container.setSizePolicy(size_policy1)
+            QWidget.setSizePolicy(self, size_policy1)
+        else:
+            self.container.setSizePolicy(size_policy1, size_policy2)
+            QWidget.setSizePolicy(self, size_policy1, size_policy2)
+
+    def addWidget(self, widget):
+        """Add a widget to the popup container
+
+        The popup container corresponds to the "full view" (not compact)
+        The widget is reparented to the container, and added to the container layout
+        """
+        widget.setParent(self.container)
+        self.container.layout().addWidget(widget)
+
+    @Property(bool)
+    def compact_view(self):
+        return self.compact_label.isVisible()
+
+    @compact_view.setter
+    def compact_view(self, set_compact: bool):
+        """Sets the compact form
+
+        If set_compact is True, the compact view is displayed ; otherwise,
+        the full view is displayed. This is handled by toggling visibility of
+        the container widget or the compact view widget.
+        """
+        if set_compact:
+            self.compact_view_widget.setVisible(True)
+            self.container.setVisible(False)
+            QWidget.setSizePolicy(self, QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Fixed)
+        else:
+            self.compact_view_widget.setVisible(False)
+            self.container.setVisible(True)
+            QWidget.setSizePolicy(self, self.container.sizePolicy())
+        if self.parentWidget():
+            self.parentWidget().adjustSize()
+        else:
+            self.adjustSize()
+
+    @Property(str)
+    def label(self):
+        return self.compact_label.text()
+
+    @label.setter
+    def label(self, compact_label_text: str):
+        """Set the label text associated to the compact view"""
+        self.compact_label.setText(compact_label_text)
+
+    @Property(str)
+    def tooltip(self):
+        return self.compact_label.toolTip()
+
+    @tooltip.setter
+    def tooltip(self, tooltip: str):
+        """Set the tooltip text associated to the compact view"""
+        self.compact_label.setToolTip(tooltip)
+        self.compact_status.setToolTip(tooltip)
+
+    @Property(bool)
+    def expand_popup(self):
+        return self._expand_popup
+
+    @expand_popup.setter
+    def expand_popup(self, popup: bool):
+        self._expand_popup = popup
+
+    def closeEvent(self, event):
+        # Called by Qt, on closing - since the children widgets can be
+        # BECWidgets, it is good to explicitely call 'close' on them,
+        # to ensure proper resources cleanup
+        for child in self.container.findChildren(QWidget, options=Qt.FindDirectChildrenOnly):
+            child.close()
+
+        super().closeEvent(event)

bec_widgets/utils/container_utils.py

@@ -1,28 +1,54 @@
-import itertools
-from typing import Type
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from typing import Any, Type
 
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QWidget
 
+from bec_widgets.cli.client_utils import BECGuiClient
+
 
 class WidgetContainerUtils:
 
+    # We need one handler that checks if a WIDGET of a given name is already created for that DOCKAREA
+    # 1. If the name exists, then it depends whether the name was auto-generated -> add _1 to the name
+    #    or alternatively raise an error that it can't be added again ( just raise an error)
+    # 2. Dock names in between docks should also be unique
+
     @staticmethod
-    def generate_unique_widget_id(container: dict, prefix: str = "widget") -> str:
-        """
-        Generate a unique widget ID.
+    def has_name_valid_chars(name: str) -> bool:
+        """Check if the name is valid.
 
         Args:
-            container(dict): The container of widgets.
-            prefix(str): The prefix of the widget ID.
+            name(str): The name to be checked.
 
         Returns:
-            widget_id(str): The unique widget ID.
+            bool: True if the name is valid, False otherwise.
         """
-        existing_ids = set(container.keys())
-        for i in itertools.count(1):
-            widget_id = f"{prefix}_{i}"
-            if widget_id not in existing_ids:
-                return widget_id
+        if not name or len(name) > 256:
+            return False  # Don't accept empty names or names longer than 256 characters
+        check_value = name.replace("_", "").replace("-", "")
+        if not check_value.isalnum() or not check_value.isascii():
+            return False
+        return True
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def generate_unique_name(name: str, list_of_names: list[str] | None = None) -> str:
+        """Generate a unique ID.
+
+        Args:
+            name(str): The name of the widget.
+        Returns:
+            tuple (str): The unique name
+        """
+        if list_of_names is None:
+            list_of_names = []
+        ii = 0
+        while ii < 1000:  # 1000 is arbritrary!
+            name_candidate = f"{name}_{ii}"
+            if name_candidate not in list_of_names:
+                return name_candidate
+            ii += 1
+        raise ValueError("Could not generate a unique name after within 1000 attempts.")
 
     @staticmethod
     def find_first_widget_by_class(
@@ -46,3 +72,36 @@ class WidgetContainerUtils:
             return None
         else:
             raise ValueError(f"No widget of class {widget_class} found.")
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def name_is_protected(name: str, container: Any = None) -> bool:
+        """
+        Check if the name is not protected.
+
+        Args:
+            name(str): The name to be checked.
+
+        Returns:
+            bool: True if the name is not protected, False otherwise.
+        """
+        if container is None:
+            container = BECGuiClient
+        gui_client_methods = set(filter(lambda x: not x.startswith("_"), dir(container)))
+        return name in gui_client_methods
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def raise_for_invalid_name(name: str, container: Any = None) -> None:
+        """
+        Check if the name is valid. If not, raise a ValueError.
+
+        Args:
+            name(str): The name to be checked.
+        Raises:
+            ValueError: If the name is not valid.
+        """
+        if not WidgetContainerUtils.has_name_valid_chars(name):
+            raise ValueError(
+                f"Name '{name}' contains invalid characters. Only alphanumeric characters, underscores, and dashes are allowed."
+            )
+        if WidgetContainerUtils.name_is_protected(name, container):
+            raise ValueError(f"Name '{name}' is protected. Please choose another name.")

bec_widgets/utils/crosshair.py

@@ -1,18 +1,38 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from collections import defaultdict
+from typing import Any
+
 import numpy as np
 import pyqtgraph as pg
+from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, Qt, Signal, Slot
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
 
-# from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, pyqtSignal
-from qtpy.QtCore import QObject
-from qtpy.QtCore import Signal as pyqtSignal
+
+class CrosshairScatterItem(pg.ScatterPlotItem):
+    def setDownsampling(self, ds=None, auto=None, method=None):
+        pass
+
+    def setClipToView(self, state):
+        pass
+
+    def setAlpha(self, *args, **kwargs):
+        pass
 
 
 class Crosshair(QObject):
+    # QT Position of mouse cursor
+    positionChanged = Signal(tuple)
+    positionClicked = Signal(tuple)
+    # Plain crosshair position signals mapped to real coordinates
+    crosshairChanged = Signal(tuple)
+    crosshairClicked = Signal(tuple)
     # Signal for 1D plot
-    coordinatesChanged1D = pyqtSignal(tuple)
-    coordinatesClicked1D = pyqtSignal(tuple)
+    coordinatesChanged1D = Signal(tuple)
+    coordinatesClicked1D = Signal(tuple)
     # Signal for 2D plot
-    coordinatesChanged2D = pyqtSignal(tuple)
-    coordinatesClicked2D = pyqtSignal(tuple)
+    coordinatesChanged2D = Signal(tuple)
+    coordinatesClicked2D = Signal(tuple)
 
     def __init__(self, plot_item: pg.PlotItem, precision: int = 3, parent=None):
         """
@@ -26,85 +46,187 @@ class Crosshair(QObject):
         super().__init__(parent)
         self.is_log_y = None
         self.is_log_x = None
+        self.is_derivative = None
         self.plot_item = plot_item
         self.precision = precision
         self.v_line = pg.InfiniteLine(angle=90, movable=False)
+        self.v_line.skip_auto_range = True
         self.h_line = pg.InfiniteLine(angle=0, movable=False)
+        self.h_line.skip_auto_range = True
+        # Add custom attribute to identify crosshair lines
+        self.v_line.is_crosshair = True
+        self.h_line.is_crosshair = True
         self.plot_item.addItem(self.v_line, ignoreBounds=True)
         self.plot_item.addItem(self.h_line, ignoreBounds=True)
+
+        # Initialize highlighted curve in a case of multiple curves
+        self.highlighted_curve_index = None
+
+        # Add TextItem to display coordinates
+        self.coord_label = pg.TextItem("", anchor=(1, 1), fill=(0, 0, 0, 100))
+        self.coord_label.setVisible(False)  # Hide initially
+        self.coord_label.skip_auto_range = True
+        self.plot_item.addItem(self.coord_label)
+
+        # Signals to connect
         self.proxy = pg.SignalProxy(
             self.plot_item.scene().sigMouseMoved, rateLimit=60, slot=self.mouse_moved
         )
+        self.positionChanged.connect(self.update_coord_label)
         self.plot_item.scene().sigMouseClicked.connect(self.mouse_clicked)
 
+        # Connect signals from pyqtgraph right click menu
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.derivativeCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_derivatives)
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.downsampleSpin.valueChanged.connect(self.clear_markers)
+
         # Initialize markers
-        self.marker_moved_1d = []
-        self.marker_clicked_1d = []
+        self.items = []
+        self.marker_moved_1d = {}
+        self.marker_clicked_1d = {}
         self.marker_2d = None
         self.update_markers()
+        self.check_log()
+        self.check_derivatives()
+
+        self._connect_to_theme_change()
+
+    def _connect_to_theme_change(self):
+        """Connect to the theme change signal."""
+        qapp = QApplication.instance()
+        if hasattr(qapp, "theme_signal"):
+            qapp.theme_signal.theme_updated.connect(self._update_theme)
+            self._update_theme()
+
+    @Slot(str)
+    def _update_theme(self, theme: str | None = None):
+        """Update the theme."""
+        if theme is None:
+            qapp = QApplication.instance()
+            if hasattr(qapp, "theme"):
+                theme = qapp.theme.theme
+            else:
+                theme = "dark"
+        self.apply_theme(theme)
+
+    def apply_theme(self, theme: str):
+        """Apply the theme to the plot."""
+        if theme == "dark":
+            text_color = "w"
+            label_bg_color = (50, 50, 50, 150)
+        elif theme == "light":
+            text_color = "k"
+            label_bg_color = (240, 240, 240, 150)
+        else:
+            text_color = "w"
+            label_bg_color = (50, 50, 50, 150)
+
+        self.coord_label.setColor(text_color)
+        self.coord_label.fill = pg.mkBrush(label_bg_color)
+        self.coord_label.border = pg.mkPen(None)
+
+    @Slot(int)
+    def update_highlighted_curve(self, curve_index: int):
+        """
+        Update the highlighted curve in the case of multiple curves in a plot item.
+
+        Args:
+            curve_index(int): The index of curve to highlight
+        """
+        self.highlighted_curve_index = curve_index
+        self.clear_markers()
+        self.update_markers()
 
     def update_markers(self):
         """Update the markers for the crosshair, creating new ones if necessary."""
 
-        # Clear existing markers
-        for marker in self.marker_moved_1d + self.marker_clicked_1d:
-            self.plot_item.removeItem(marker)
-        if self.marker_2d:
-            self.plot_item.removeItem(self.marker_2d)
+        if self.highlighted_curve_index is not None and hasattr(self.plot_item, "visible_curves"):
+            # Focus on the highlighted curve only
+            self.items = [self.plot_item.visible_curves[self.highlighted_curve_index]]
+        else:
+            # Handle all curves
+            self.items = self.plot_item.items
 
-        # Create new markers
-        self.marker_moved_1d = []
-        self.marker_clicked_1d = []
-        self.marker_2d = None
-        for item in self.plot_item.items:
+        # Create or update markers
+        for item in self.items:
             if isinstance(item, pg.PlotDataItem):  # 1D plot
                 pen = item.opts["pen"]
                 color = pen.color() if hasattr(pen, "color") else pg.mkColor(pen)
-                marker_moved = pg.ScatterPlotItem(
-                    size=10, pen=pg.mkPen(color), brush=pg.mkBrush(None)
-                )
-                marker_clicked = pg.ScatterPlotItem(
-                    size=10, pen=pg.mkPen(None), brush=pg.mkBrush(color)
-                )
-                self.marker_moved_1d.append(marker_moved)
-                self.plot_item.addItem(marker_moved)
-                # Create glowing effect markers for clicked events
-                marker_clicked_list = []
-                for size, alpha in [(18, 64), (14, 128), (10, 255)]:
-                    marker_clicked = pg.ScatterPlotItem(
-                        size=size,
-                        pen=pg.mkPen(None),
-                        brush=pg.mkBrush(color.red(), color.green(), color.blue(), alpha),
+                name = item.name() or str(id(item))
+                if name in self.marker_moved_1d:
+                    # Update existing markers
+                    marker_moved = self.marker_moved_1d[name]
+                    marker_moved.setPen(pg.mkPen(color))
+                    # Update clicked markers' brushes
+                    for marker_clicked in self.marker_clicked_1d[name]:
+                        alpha = marker_clicked.opts["brush"].color().alpha()
+                        marker_clicked.setBrush(
+                            pg.mkBrush(color.red(), color.green(), color.blue(), alpha)
+                        )
+                    # Update z-values
+                    marker_moved.setZValue(item.zValue() + 1)
+                    for marker_clicked in self.marker_clicked_1d[name]:
+                        marker_clicked.setZValue(item.zValue() + 1)
+                else:
+                    # Create new markers
+                    marker_moved = CrosshairScatterItem(
+                        size=10, pen=pg.mkPen(color), brush=pg.mkBrush(None)
                     )
-                    marker_clicked_list.append(marker_clicked)
-                    self.plot_item.addItem(marker_clicked)
+                    marker_moved.skip_auto_range = True
+                    marker_moved.is_crosshair = True
+                    self.marker_moved_1d[name] = marker_moved
+                    self.plot_item.addItem(marker_moved)
+                    # Set marker z-value higher than the curve
+                    marker_moved.setZValue(item.zValue() + 1)
 
-                self.marker_clicked_1d.append(marker_clicked_list)
+                    # Create glowing effect markers for clicked events
+                    marker_clicked_list = []
+                    for size, alpha in [(18, 64), (14, 128), (10, 255)]:
+                        marker_clicked = CrosshairScatterItem(
+                            size=size,
+                            pen=pg.mkPen(None),
+                            brush=pg.mkBrush(color.red(), color.green(), color.blue(), alpha),
+                        )
+                        marker_clicked.skip_auto_range = True
+                        marker_clicked.is_crosshair = True
+                        self.plot_item.addItem(marker_clicked)
+                        marker_clicked.setZValue(item.zValue() + 1)
+                        marker_clicked_list.append(marker_clicked)
+                    self.marker_clicked_1d[name] = marker_clicked_list
             elif isinstance(item, pg.ImageItem):  # 2D plot
+                if self.marker_2d is not None:
+                    continue
                 self.marker_2d = pg.ROI(
                     [0, 0], size=[1, 1], pen=pg.mkPen("r", width=2), movable=False
                 )
+                self.marker_2d.skip_auto_range = True
                 self.plot_item.addItem(self.marker_2d)
 
-    def snap_to_data(self, x, y) -> tuple:
+    def snap_to_data(
+        self, x: float, y: float
+    ) -> tuple[None, None] | tuple[defaultdict[Any, list], defaultdict[Any, list]]:
         """
         Finds the nearest data points to the given x and y coordinates.
 
         Args:
-            x: The x-coordinate
-            y: The y-coordinate
+            x(float): The x-coordinate of the mouse cursor
+            y(float): The y-coordinate of the mouse cursor
 
         Returns:
-            tuple: The nearest x and y values
+            tuple: x and y values snapped to the nearest data
         """
-        y_values_1d = []
-        x_values_1d = []
-        image_2d = None
+        y_values = defaultdict(list)
+        x_values = defaultdict(list)
 
         # Iterate through items in the plot
-        for item in self.plot_item.items:
+        for item in self.items:
             if isinstance(item, pg.PlotDataItem):  # 1D plot
-                x_data, y_data = item.xData, item.yData
+                name = item.name() or str(id(item))
+                plot_data = item._getDisplayDataset()
+                if plot_data is None:
+                    continue
+                x_data, y_data = plot_data.x, plot_data.y
                 if x_data is not None and y_data is not None:
                     if self.is_log_x:
                         min_x_data = np.min(x_data[x_data > 0])
@@ -112,43 +234,56 @@ class Crosshair(QObject):
                         min_x_data = np.min(x_data)
                     max_x_data = np.max(x_data)
                     if x < min_x_data or x > max_x_data:
-                        return None, None
+                        y_values[name] = None
+                        x_values[name] = None
+                        continue
                     closest_x, closest_y = self.closest_x_y_value(x, x_data, y_data)
-                    y_values_1d.append(closest_y)
-                    x_values_1d.append(closest_x)
+                    y_values[name] = closest_y
+                    x_values[name] = closest_x
             elif isinstance(item, pg.ImageItem):  # 2D plot
+                name = item.config.monitor or str(id(item))
                 image_2d = item.image
+                # Clip the x and y values to the image dimensions to avoid out of bounds errors
+                y_values[name] = int(np.clip(y, 0, image_2d.shape[1] - 1))
+                x_values[name] = int(np.clip(x, 0, image_2d.shape[0] - 1))
 
-        # Handle 1D plot
-        if y_values_1d:
-            if all(v is None for v in x_values_1d) or all(v is None for v in y_values_1d):
+        if x_values and y_values:
+            if all(v is None for v in x_values.values()) or all(
+                v is None for v in y_values.values()
+            ):
                 return None, None
-            closest_x = min(x_values_1d, key=lambda xi: abs(xi - x))  # Snap x to closest data point
-            return closest_x, y_values_1d
-
-        # Handle 2D plot
-        if image_2d is not None:
-            x_idx = int(np.clip(x, 0, image_2d.shape[0] - 1))
-            y_idx = int(np.clip(y, 0, image_2d.shape[1] - 1))
-            return x_idx, y_idx
+            return x_values, y_values
 
         return None, None
 
-    def closest_x_y_value(self, input_value: float, list_x: list, list_y: list) -> tuple:
+    def closest_x_y_value(self, input_x: float, list_x: list, list_y: list) -> tuple:
         """
         Find the closest x and y value to the input value.
 
         Args:
-            input_value (float): Input value
+            input_x (float): Input value
             list_x (list): List of x values
             list_y (list): List of y values
 
         Returns:
             tuple: Closest x and y value
         """
-        arr = np.asarray(list_x)
-        i = (np.abs(arr - input_value)).argmin()
-        return list_x[i], list_y[i]
+        # Convert lists to NumPy arrays
+        arr_x = np.asarray(list_x)
+
+        # Get the indices where x is not NaN
+        valid_indices = ~np.isnan(arr_x)
+
+        # Filter x array to exclude NaN values
+        filtered_x = arr_x[valid_indices]
+
+        # Find the index of the closest value in the filtered x array
+        closest_index = np.abs(filtered_x - input_x).argmin()
+
+        # Map back to the original index in the list_x and list_y arrays
+        original_index = np.where(valid_indices)[0][closest_index]
+
+        return list_x[original_index], list_y[original_index]
 
     def mouse_moved(self, event):
         """Handles the mouse moved event, updating the crosshair position and emitting signals.
@@ -156,39 +291,50 @@ class Crosshair(QObject):
         Args:
             event: The mouse moved event
         """
-        self.check_log()
         pos = event[0]
+        self.update_markers()
         if self.plot_item.vb.sceneBoundingRect().contains(pos):
             mouse_point = self.plot_item.vb.mapSceneToView(pos)
-            self.v_line.setPos(mouse_point.x())
-            self.h_line.setPos(mouse_point.y())
-
             x, y = mouse_point.x(), mouse_point.y()
-            if self.is_log_x:
-                x = 10**x
-            if self.is_log_y:
-                y = 10**y
-            x, y_values = self.snap_to_data(x, y)
+            self.v_line.setPos(x)
+            self.h_line.setPos(y)
+            scaled_x, scaled_y = self.scale_emitted_coordinates(mouse_point.x(), mouse_point.y())
+            self.crosshairChanged.emit((scaled_x, scaled_y))
+            self.positionChanged.emit((x, y))
 
-            for item in self.plot_item.items:
+            x_snap_values, y_snap_values = self.snap_to_data(x, y)
+            if x_snap_values is None or y_snap_values is None:
+                return
+            if all(v is None for v in x_snap_values.values()) or all(
+                v is None for v in y_snap_values.values()
+            ):
+                # not sure how we got here, but just to be safe...
+                return
+
+            for item in self.items:
                 if isinstance(item, pg.PlotDataItem):
-                    if x is None or all(v is None for v in y_values):
-                        return
+                    name = item.name() or str(id(item))
+                    x, y = x_snap_values[name], y_snap_values[name]
+                    if x is None or y is None:
+                        continue
+                    self.marker_moved_1d[name].setData([x], [y])
+                    x_snapped_scaled, y_snapped_scaled = self.scale_emitted_coordinates(x, y)
                     coordinate_to_emit = (
-                        round(x, self.precision),
-                        [round(y_val, self.precision) for y_val in y_values],
+                        name,
+                        round(x_snapped_scaled, self.precision),
+                        round(y_snapped_scaled, self.precision),
                     )
                     self.coordinatesChanged1D.emit(coordinate_to_emit)
-                    for i, y_val in enumerate(y_values):
-                        self.marker_moved_1d[i].setData(
-                            [x if not self.is_log_x else np.log10(x)],
-                            [y_val if not self.is_log_y else np.log10(y_val)],
-                        )
                 elif isinstance(item, pg.ImageItem):
-                    if x is None or y_values is None:
-                        return
-                    coordinate_to_emit = (x, y_values)
+                    name = item.config.monitor or str(id(item))
+                    x, y = x_snap_values[name], y_snap_values[name]
+                    if x is None or y is None:
+                        continue
+                    self.marker_2d.setPos([x, y])
+                    coordinate_to_emit = (name, x, y)
                     self.coordinatesChanged2D.emit(coordinate_to_emit)
+                else:
+                    continue
 
     def mouse_clicked(self, event):
         """Handles the mouse clicked event, updating the crosshair position and emitting signals.
@@ -196,40 +342,119 @@ class Crosshair(QObject):
         Args:
             event: The mouse clicked event
         """
-        self.check_log()
+
+        # we only accept left mouse clicks
+        if event.button() != Qt.MouseButton.LeftButton:
+            return
+        self.update_markers()
         if self.plot_item.vb.sceneBoundingRect().contains(event._scenePos):
             mouse_point = self.plot_item.vb.mapSceneToView(event._scenePos)
             x, y = mouse_point.x(), mouse_point.y()
+            scaled_x, scaled_y = self.scale_emitted_coordinates(mouse_point.x(), mouse_point.y())
+            self.crosshairClicked.emit((scaled_x, scaled_y))
+            self.positionClicked.emit((x, y))
 
-            if self.is_log_x:
-                x = 10**x
-            if self.is_log_y:
-                y = 10**y
-            x, y_values = self.snap_to_data(x, y)
+            x_snap_values, y_snap_values = self.snap_to_data(x, y)
 
-            for item in self.plot_item.items:
+            if x_snap_values is None or y_snap_values is None:
+                return
+            if all(v is None for v in x_snap_values.values()) or all(
+                v is None for v in y_snap_values.values()
+            ):
+                # not sure how we got here, but just to be safe...
+                return
+
+            for item in self.items:
                 if isinstance(item, pg.PlotDataItem):
-                    if x is None or all(v is None for v in y_values):
-                        return
+                    name = item.name() or str(id(item))
+                    x, y = x_snap_values[name], y_snap_values[name]
+                    if x is None or y is None:
+                        continue
+                    for marker_clicked in self.marker_clicked_1d[name]:
+                        marker_clicked.setData([x], [y])
+                    x_snapped_scaled, y_snapped_scaled = self.scale_emitted_coordinates(x, y)
                     coordinate_to_emit = (
-                        round(x, self.precision),
-                        [round(y_val, self.precision) for y_val in y_values],
+                        name,
+                        round(x_snapped_scaled, self.precision),
+                        round(y_snapped_scaled, self.precision),
                     )
                     self.coordinatesClicked1D.emit(coordinate_to_emit)
-                    for i, y_val in enumerate(y_values):
-                        for marker in self.marker_clicked_1d[i]:
-                            marker.setData(
-                                [x if not self.is_log_x else np.log10(x)],
-                                [y_val if not self.is_log_y else np.log10(y_val)],
-                            )
                 elif isinstance(item, pg.ImageItem):
-                    if x is None or y_values is None:
-                        return
-                    coordinate_to_emit = (x, y_values)
+                    name = item.config.monitor or str(id(item))
+                    x, y = x_snap_values[name], y_snap_values[name]
+                    if x is None or y is None:
+                        continue
+                    self.marker_2d.setPos([x, y])
+                    coordinate_to_emit = (name, x, y)
                     self.coordinatesClicked2D.emit(coordinate_to_emit)
-                    self.marker_2d.setPos([x, y_values])
+                else:
+                    continue
+
+    def clear_markers(self):
+        """Clears the markers from the plot."""
+        for marker in self.marker_moved_1d.values():
+            self.plot_item.removeItem(marker)
+        for markers in self.marker_clicked_1d.values():
+            for marker in markers:
+                self.plot_item.removeItem(marker)
+        self.marker_moved_1d.clear()
+        self.marker_clicked_1d.clear()
+
+    def scale_emitted_coordinates(self, x, y):
+        """Scales the emitted coordinates if the axes are in log scale.
+
+        Args:
+            x (float): The x-coordinate
+            y (float): The y-coordinate
+
+        Returns:
+            tuple: The scaled x and y coordinates
+        """
+        if self.is_log_x:
+            x = 10**x
+        if self.is_log_y:
+            y = 10**y
+        return x, y
+
+    def update_coord_label(self, pos: tuple):
+        """Updates the coordinate label based on the crosshair position and axis scales.
+
+        Args:
+            pos (tuple): The (x, y) position of the crosshair.
+        """
+        x, y = pos
+        x_scaled, y_scaled = self.scale_emitted_coordinates(x, y)
+        text = f"({x_scaled:.{self.precision}g}, {y_scaled:.{self.precision}g})"
+        for item in self.items:
+            if isinstance(item, pg.ImageItem):
+                image = item.image
+                ix = int(np.clip(x, 0, image.shape[0] - 1))
+                iy = int(np.clip(y, 0, image.shape[1] - 1))
+                intensity = image[ix, iy]
+                text += f"\nIntensity: {intensity:.{self.precision}g}"
+                break
+        # Update coordinate label
+        self.coord_label.setText(text)
+        self.coord_label.setPos(x, y)
+        self.coord_label.setVisible(True)
 
     def check_log(self):
         """Checks if the x or y axis is in log scale and updates the internal state accordingly."""
-        self.is_log_x = self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.isChecked()
-        self.is_log_y = self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.isChecked()
+        self.is_log_x = self.plot_item.axes["bottom"]["item"].logMode
+        self.is_log_y = self.plot_item.axes["left"]["item"].logMode
+        self.clear_markers()
+
+    def check_derivatives(self):
+        """Checks if the derivatives are enabled and updates the internal state accordingly."""
+        self.is_derivative = self.plot_item.ctrl.derivativeCheck.isChecked()
+        self.clear_markers()
+
+    def cleanup(self):
+        if self.marker_2d is not None:
+            self.plot_item.removeItem(self.marker_2d)
+            self.marker_2d = None
+        self.plot_item.removeItem(self.v_line)
+        self.plot_item.removeItem(self.h_line)
+        self.plot_item.removeItem(self.coord_label)
+
+        self.clear_markers()

bec_widgets/utils/entry_validator.py

@@ -22,7 +22,9 @@ class EntryValidator:
         if entry is None or entry == "":
             entry = next(iter(device._hints), name) if hasattr(device, "_hints") else name
         if entry not in description:
-            raise ValueError(f"Entry '{entry}' not found in device '{name}' signals")
+            raise ValueError(
+                f"Entry '{entry}' not found in device '{name}' signals. Available signals: {description.keys()}"
+            )
 
         return entry
 

bec_widgets/utils/error_popups.py

@@ -2,27 +2,149 @@ import functools
 import sys
 import traceback
 
-from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, Qt, Signal, Slot
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import Property, QObject, Qt, Signal, Slot
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication, QMessageBox, QPushButton, QVBoxLayout, QWidget
 
+logger = bec_logger.logger
 
-def SafeSlot(*slot_args, **slot_kwargs):
+
+def SafeProperty(prop_type, *prop_args, popup_error: bool = False, default=None, **prop_kwargs):
+    """
+    Decorator to create a Qt Property with safe getter and setter so that
+    Qt Designer won't crash if an exception occurs in either method.
+
+    Args:
+        prop_type: The property type (e.g., str, bool, int, custom classes, etc.)
+        popup_error (bool): If True, show a popup for any error; otherwise, ignore or log silently.
+        default: Any default/fallback value to return if the getter raises an exception.
+        *prop_args, **prop_kwargs: Passed along to the underlying Qt Property constructor.
+
+    Usage:
+        @SafeProperty(int, default=-1)
+        def some_value(self) -> int:
+            # your getter logic
+            return ...   # if an exception is raised, returns -1
+
+        @some_value.setter
+        def some_value(self, val: int):
+            # your setter logic
+            ...
+    """
+
+    def decorator(py_getter):
+        """Decorator for the user's property getter function."""
+
+        @functools.wraps(py_getter)
+        def safe_getter(self_):
+            try:
+                return py_getter(self_)
+            except Exception:
+                # Identify which property function triggered error
+                prop_name = f"{py_getter.__module__}.{py_getter.__qualname__}"
+                error_msg = traceback.format_exc()
+
+                if popup_error:
+                    ErrorPopupUtility().custom_exception_hook(*sys.exc_info(), popup_error=True)
+                logger.error(f"SafeProperty error in GETTER of '{prop_name}':\n{error_msg}")
+                return default
+
+        class PropertyWrapper:
+            """
+            Intermediate wrapper used so that the user can optionally chain .setter(...).
+            """
+
+            def __init__(self, getter_func):
+                # We store only our safe_getter in the wrapper
+                self.getter_func = safe_getter
+
+            def setter(self, setter_func):
+                """Wraps the user-defined setter to handle errors safely."""
+
+                @functools.wraps(setter_func)
+                def safe_setter(self_, value):
+                    try:
+                        return setter_func(self_, value)
+                    except Exception:
+                        prop_name = f"{setter_func.__module__}.{setter_func.__qualname__}"
+                        error_msg = traceback.format_exc()
+
+                        if popup_error:
+                            ErrorPopupUtility().custom_exception_hook(
+                                *sys.exc_info(), popup_error=True
+                            )
+                        logger.error(f"SafeProperty error in SETTER of '{prop_name}':\n{error_msg}")
+                        return
+
+                # Return the full read/write Property
+                return Property(prop_type, self.getter_func, safe_setter, *prop_args, **prop_kwargs)
+
+            def __call__(self):
+                """
+                If user never calls `.setter(...)`, produce a read-only property.
+                """
+                return Property(prop_type, self.getter_func, None, *prop_args, **prop_kwargs)
+
+        return PropertyWrapper(py_getter)
+
+    return decorator
+
+
+def SafeSlot(*slot_args, **slot_kwargs):  # pylint: disable=invalid-name
     """Function with args, acting like a decorator, applying "error_managed" decorator + Qt Slot
     to the passed function, to display errors instead of potentially raising an exception
 
     'popup_error' keyword argument can be passed with boolean value if a dialog should pop up,
     otherwise error display is left to the original exception hook
+    'verify_sender' keyword argument can be passed with boolean value if the sender should be verified
+    before executing the slot. If True, the slot will only execute if the sender is a QObject. This is
+    useful to prevent function calls from already deleted objects.
+    'raise_error' keyword argument can be passed with boolean value if the error should be raised
+    after the error is displayed. This is useful to propagate the error to the caller but should be used
+    with great care to avoid segfaults.
+
+    The keywords above are stored in a container which can be overridden by passing
+    '_override_slot_params' keyword argument with a dictionary containing the keywords to override.
+    This is useful to override the default behavior of the decorator for a specific function call.
+
     """
-    popup_error = bool(slot_kwargs.pop("popup_error", False))
+    _slot_params = {
+        "popup_error": bool(slot_kwargs.pop("popup_error", False)),
+        "verify_sender": bool(slot_kwargs.pop("verify_sender", False)),
+        "raise_error": bool(slot_kwargs.pop("raise_error", False)),
+    }
 
     def error_managed(method):
         @Slot(*slot_args, **slot_kwargs)
         @functools.wraps(method)
         def wrapper(*args, **kwargs):
+
+            _override_slot_params = kwargs.pop("_override_slot_params", {})
+            _slot_params.update(_override_slot_params)
             try:
+                if not _slot_params["verify_sender"] or len(args) == 0:
+                    return method(*args, **kwargs)
+
+                _instance = args[0]
+                if not isinstance(_instance, QObject):
+                    return method(*args, **kwargs)
+                sender = _instance.sender()
+                if sender is None:
+                    logger.info(
+                        f"Sender is None for {method.__module__}.{method.__qualname__}, "
+                        "skipping method call."
+                    )
+                    return
                 return method(*args, **kwargs)
+
             except Exception:
-                ErrorPopupUtility().custom_exception_hook(*sys.exc_info(), popup_error=popup_error)
+                slot_name = f"{method.__module__}.{method.__qualname__}"
+                error_msg = traceback.format_exc()
+                if _slot_params["popup_error"]:
+                    ErrorPopupUtility().custom_exception_hook(*sys.exc_info(), popup_error=True)
+                logger.error(f"SafeSlot error in slot '{slot_name}':\n{error_msg}")
+                if _slot_params["raise_error"]:
+                    raise
 
         return wrapper
 
@@ -34,10 +156,7 @@ class WarningPopupUtility(QObject):
     Utility class to show warning popups in the application.
     """
 
-    def __init__(self, parent=None):
-        super().__init__(parent)
-
-    @Slot(str, str, str, QWidget)
+    @SafeSlot(str, str, str, QWidget)
     def show_warning_message(self, title, message, detailed_text, widget):
         msg = QMessageBox(widget)
         msg.setIcon(QMessageBox.Warning)
@@ -60,7 +179,10 @@ class WarningPopupUtility(QObject):
         self.show_warning_message(title, message, detailed_text, widget)
 
 
-class ErrorPopupUtility(QObject):
+_popup_utility_instance = None
+
+
+class _ErrorPopupUtility(QObject):
     """
     Utility class to manage error popups in the application to show error messages to the users.
     This class is singleton and the error popup can be enabled or disabled globally or attach to widget methods with decorator @error_managed.
@@ -68,24 +190,14 @@ class ErrorPopupUtility(QObject):
 
     error_occurred = Signal(str, str, QWidget)
 
-    _instance = None
-    _initialized = False
-
-    def __new__(cls, *args, **kwargs):
-        if cls._instance is None:
-            cls._instance = super(ErrorPopupUtility, cls).__new__(cls)
-            cls._instance._initialized = False
-        return cls._instance
-
     def __init__(self, parent=None):
-        if not self._initialized:
-            super().__init__(parent=parent)
-            self.error_occurred.connect(self.show_error_message)
-            self.enable_error_popup = False
-            self._initialized = True
-            sys.excepthook = self.custom_exception_hook
+        super().__init__(parent=parent)
+        self.error_occurred.connect(self.show_error_message)
+        self.enable_error_popup = False
+        self._initialized = True
+        sys.excepthook = self.custom_exception_hook
 
-    @Slot(str, str, QWidget)
+    @SafeSlot(str, str, QWidget)
     def show_error_message(self, title, message, widget):
         detailed_text = self.format_traceback(message)
         error_message = self.parse_error_message(detailed_text)
@@ -101,6 +213,12 @@ class ErrorPopupUtility(QObject):
         msg.setMinimumHeight(400)
         msg.exec_()
 
+    def show_property_error(self, title, message, widget):
+        """
+        Show a property-specific error message.
+        """
+        self.error_occurred.emit(title, message, widget)
+
     def format_traceback(self, traceback_message: str) -> str:
         """
         Format the traceback message to be displayed in the error popup by adding indentation to each line.
@@ -137,12 +255,14 @@ class ErrorPopupUtility(QObject):
             error_message = " ".join(captured_message)
         return error_message
 
+    def get_error_message(self, exctype, value, tb):
+        return "".join(traceback.format_exception(exctype, value, tb))
+
     def custom_exception_hook(self, exctype, value, tb, popup_error=False):
         if popup_error or self.enable_error_popup:
-            error_message = traceback.format_exception(exctype, value, tb)
             self.error_occurred.emit(
                 "Method error" if popup_error else "Application Error",
-                "".join(error_message),
+                self.get_error_message(exctype, value, tb),
                 self.parent(),
             )
         else:
@@ -157,13 +277,12 @@ class ErrorPopupUtility(QObject):
         """
         self.enable_error_popup = bool(state)
 
-    @classmethod
-    def reset_singleton(cls):
-        """
-        Reset the singleton instance.
-        """
-        cls._instance = None
-        cls._initialized = False
+
+def ErrorPopupUtility():
+    global _popup_utility_instance
+    if not _popup_utility_instance:
+        _popup_utility_instance = _ErrorPopupUtility()
+    return _popup_utility_instance
 
 
 class ExampleWidget(QWidget):  # pragma: no cover

bec_widgets/utils/expandable_frame.py

@@ -0,0 +1,72 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QFrame,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QLabel,
+    QLayout,
+    QSizePolicy,
+    QToolButton,
+    QVBoxLayout,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeProperty, SafeSlot
+
+
+class ExpandableGroupFrame(QFrame):
+
+    EXPANDED_ICON_NAME: str = "collapse_all"
+    COLLAPSED_ICON_NAME: str = "expand_all"
+
+    def __init__(self, title: str, parent: QWidget | None = None, expanded: bool = True) -> None:
+        super().__init__(parent=parent)
+        self._expanded = expanded
+
+        self.setFrameStyle(QFrame.Shape.StyledPanel | QFrame.Shadow.Plain)
+        self.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Policy.Minimum, QSizePolicy.Policy.Minimum)
+        self._layout = QVBoxLayout()
+        self._layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        self.setLayout(self._layout)
+        self._title_layout = QHBoxLayout()
+        self._layout.addLayout(self._title_layout)
+        self._expansion_button = QToolButton()
+        self._update_icon()
+        self._title = QLabel(f"<b>{title}</b>")
+        self._title_layout.addWidget(self._expansion_button)
+        self._title_layout.addWidget(self._title)
+
+        self._contents = QWidget(self)
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._contents)
+
+        self._expansion_button.clicked.connect(self.switch_expanded_state)
+        self.expanded = self._expanded  # type: ignore
+
+    def set_layout(self, layout: QLayout) -> None:
+        self._contents.setLayout(layout)
+        self._contents.layout().setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)  # type: ignore
+
+    @SafeSlot()
+    def switch_expanded_state(self):
+        self.expanded = not self.expanded  # type: ignore
+        self._update_icon()
+
+    @SafeProperty(bool)
+    def expanded(self):  # type: ignore
+        return self._expanded
+
+    @expanded.setter
+    def expanded(self, expanded: bool):
+        self._expanded = expanded
+        self._contents.setVisible(expanded)
+        self.updateGeometry()
+
+    def _update_icon(self):
+        self._expansion_button.setIcon(
+            material_icon(icon_name=self.EXPANDED_ICON_NAME, size=(10, 10), convert_to_pixmap=False)
+            if self.expanded
+            else material_icon(
+                icon_name=self.COLLAPSED_ICON_NAME, size=(10, 10), convert_to_pixmap=False
+            )
+        )

bec_widgets/utils/filter_io.py

@@ -0,0 +1,156 @@
+"""Module for handling filter I/O operations in BEC Widgets for input fields.
+These operations include filtering device/signal names and/or device types.
+"""
+
+from abc import ABC, abstractmethod
+
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import QStringListModel
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QComboBox, QCompleter, QLineEdit
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+class WidgetFilterHandler(ABC):
+    """Abstract base class for widget filter handlers"""
+
+    @abstractmethod
+    def set_selection(self, widget, selection: list) -> None:
+        """Set the filtered_selection for the widget
+
+        Args:
+            selection (list): Filtered selection of items
+        """
+
+    @abstractmethod
+    def check_input(self, widget, text: str) -> bool:
+        """Check if the input text is in the filtered selection
+
+        Args:
+            widget: Widget instance
+            text (str): Input text
+
+        Returns:
+            bool: True if the input text is in the filtered selection
+        """
+
+
+class LineEditFilterHandler(WidgetFilterHandler):
+    """Handler for QLineEdit widget"""
+
+    def set_selection(self, widget: QLineEdit, selection: list) -> None:
+        """Set the selection for the widget to the completer model
+
+        Args:
+            widget (QLineEdit): The QLineEdit widget
+            selection (list): Filtered selection of items
+        """
+        if not isinstance(widget.completer, QCompleter):
+            completer = QCompleter(widget)
+            widget.setCompleter(completer)
+        widget.completer.setModel(QStringListModel(selection, widget))
+
+    def check_input(self, widget: QLineEdit, text: str) -> bool:
+        """Check if the input text is in the filtered selection
+
+        Args:
+            widget (QLineEdit): The QLineEdit widget
+            text (str): Input text
+
+        Returns:
+            bool: True if the input text is in the filtered selection
+        """
+        model = widget.completer.model()
+        model_data = [model.data(model.index(i)) for i in range(model.rowCount())]
+        return text in model_data
+
+
+class ComboBoxFilterHandler(WidgetFilterHandler):
+    """Handler for QComboBox widget"""
+
+    def set_selection(self, widget: QComboBox, selection: list) -> None:
+        """Set the selection for the widget to the completer model
+
+        Args:
+            widget (QComboBox): The QComboBox widget
+            selection (list): Filtered selection of items
+        """
+        widget.clear()
+        widget.addItems(selection)
+
+    def check_input(self, widget: QComboBox, text: str) -> bool:
+        """Check if the input text is in the filtered selection
+
+        Args:
+            widget (QComboBox): The QComboBox widget
+            text (str): Input text
+
+        Returns:
+            bool: True if the input text is in the filtered selection
+        """
+        return text in [widget.itemText(i) for i in range(widget.count())]
+
+
+class FilterIO:
+    """Public interface to set filters for input widgets.
+    It supports the list of widgets stored in class attribute _handlers.
+    """
+
+    _handlers = {QLineEdit: LineEditFilterHandler, QComboBox: ComboBoxFilterHandler}
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def set_selection(widget, selection: list, ignore_errors=True):
+        """
+        Retrieve value from the widget instance.
+
+        Args:
+            widget: Widget instance.
+            selection(list): List of filtered selection items.
+            ignore_errors(bool, optional): Whether to ignore if no handler is found.
+        """
+        handler_class = FilterIO._find_handler(widget)
+        if handler_class:
+            return handler_class().set_selection(widget=widget, selection=selection)
+        if not ignore_errors:
+            raise ValueError(
+                f"No matching handler for widget type: {type(widget)} in handler list {FilterIO._handlers}"
+            )
+        return None
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def check_input(widget, text: str, ignore_errors=True):
+        """
+        Check if the input text is in the filtered selection.
+
+        Args:
+            widget: Widget instance.
+            text(str): Input text.
+            ignore_errors(bool, optional): Whether to ignore if no handler is found.
+
+        Returns:
+            bool: True if the input text is in the filtered selection.
+        """
+        handler_class = FilterIO._find_handler(widget)
+        if handler_class:
+            return handler_class().check_input(widget=widget, text=text)
+        if not ignore_errors:
+            raise ValueError(
+                f"No matching handler for widget type: {type(widget)} in handler list {FilterIO._handlers}"
+            )
+        return None
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _find_handler(widget):
+        """
+        Find the appropriate handler for the widget by checking its base classes.
+
+        Args:
+            widget: Widget instance.
+
+        Returns:
+            handler_class: The handler class if found, otherwise None.
+        """
+        for base in type(widget).__mro__:
+            if base in FilterIO._handlers:
+                return FilterIO._handlers[base]
+        return None

bec_widgets/utils/forms_from_types/forms.py

@@ -0,0 +1,182 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from decimal import Decimal
+from types import NoneType
+
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
+from pydantic import BaseModel, ValidationError
+from qtpy.QtCore import Signal  # type: ignore
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QGridLayout, QLabel, QLayout, QVBoxLayout, QWidget
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
+from bec_widgets.utils.compact_popup import CompactPopupWidget
+from bec_widgets.utils.forms_from_types.items import FormItemSpec, widget_from_type
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+class TypedForm(BECWidget, QWidget):
+    PLUGIN = True
+    ICON_NAME = "list_alt"
+
+    value_changed = Signal()
+
+    RPC = False
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        parent=None,
+        items: list[tuple[str, type]] | None = None,
+        form_item_specs: list[FormItemSpec] | None = None,
+        client=None,
+        **kwargs,
+    ):
+        """Widget with a list of form items based on a list of types.
+
+        Args:
+            items (list[tuple[str, type]]): list of tuples of a name for the field and its type.
+                                            Should be a type supported by the logic in items.py
+            form_item_specs (list[FormItemSpec]): list of form item specs, equivalent to items.
+                                                  only one of items or form_item_specs should be
+                                                  supplied.
+
+        """
+        if (items is not None and form_item_specs is not None) or (
+            items is None and form_item_specs is None
+        ):
+            raise ValueError("Must specify one and only one of items and form_item_specs")
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, client=client, **kwargs)
+        self._items = (
+            form_item_specs
+            if form_item_specs is not None
+            else [
+                FormItemSpec(name=name, item_type=item_type)
+                for name, item_type in items  # type: ignore
+            ]
+        )
+        self._layout = QVBoxLayout()
+        self._layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        self.setLayout(self._layout)
+
+        self._form_grid_container = QWidget(parent=self)
+        self._form_grid = QWidget(parent=self._form_grid_container)
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._form_grid_container)
+        self._form_grid_container.setLayout(QVBoxLayout())
+        self._form_grid.setLayout(self._new_grid_layout())
+
+        self.populate()
+
+    def populate(self):
+        self._clear_grid()
+        for r, item in enumerate(self._items):
+            self._add_griditem(item, r)
+
+    def _add_griditem(self, item: FormItemSpec, row: int):
+        grid = self._form_grid.layout()
+        label = QLabel(item.name)
+        label.setProperty("_model_field_name", item.name)
+        label.setToolTip(item.info.description or item.name)
+        grid.addWidget(label, row, 0)
+        widget = widget_from_type(item.item_type)(parent=self, spec=item)
+        widget.valueChanged.connect(self.value_changed)
+        grid.addWidget(widget, row, 1)
+
+    def _dict_from_grid(self) -> dict[str, str | int | float | Decimal | bool]:
+        grid: QGridLayout = self._form_grid.layout()  # type: ignore
+        return {
+            grid.itemAtPosition(i, 0)
+            .widget()
+            .property("_model_field_name"): grid.itemAtPosition(i, 1)
+            .widget()
+            .getValue()  # type: ignore # we only add 'DynamicFormItem's here
+            for i in range(grid.rowCount())
+        }
+
+    def _clear_grid(self):
+        if (old_layout := self._form_grid.layout()) is not None:
+            while old_layout.count():
+                item = old_layout.takeAt(0)
+                widget = item.widget()
+                if widget is not None:
+                    widget.deleteLater()
+            old_layout.deleteLater()
+            self._form_grid.deleteLater()
+        self._form_grid = QWidget()
+
+        self._form_grid.setLayout(self._new_grid_layout())
+        self._form_grid_container.layout().addWidget(self._form_grid)
+
+        self._form_grid.adjustSize()
+        self._form_grid_container.adjustSize()
+        self.adjustSize()
+
+    def _new_grid_layout(self):
+        new_grid = QGridLayout()
+        new_grid.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        new_grid.setSizeConstraint(QLayout.SizeConstraint.SetFixedSize)
+        return new_grid
+
+
+class PydanticModelForm(TypedForm):
+    metadata_updated = Signal(dict)
+    metadata_cleared = Signal(NoneType)
+
+    def __init__(self, parent=None, metadata_model: type[BaseModel] = None, client=None, **kwargs):
+        """
+        A form generated from a pydantic model.
+
+        Args:
+            metadata_model (type[BaseModel]): the model class for which to generate a form.
+        """
+        self._md_schema = metadata_model
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, form_item_specs=self._form_item_specs(), client=client)
+
+        self._validity = CompactPopupWidget()
+        self._validity.compact_view = True  # type: ignore
+        self._validity.label = "Metadata validity"  # type: ignore
+        self._validity.compact_show_popup.setIcon(
+            material_icon(icon_name="info", size=(10, 10), convert_to_pixmap=False)
+        )
+        self._validity_message = QLabel("Not yet validated")
+        self._validity.addWidget(self._validity_message)
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._validity)
+        self.value_changed.connect(self.validate_form)
+
+    def set_schema(self, schema: type[BaseModel]):
+        self._md_schema = schema
+        self.populate()
+
+    def _form_item_specs(self):
+        return [
+            FormItemSpec(name=name, info=info, item_type=info.annotation)
+            for name, info in self._md_schema.model_fields.items()
+        ]
+
+    def update_items_from_schema(self):
+        self._items = self._form_item_specs()
+
+    def populate(self):
+        self.update_items_from_schema()
+        super().populate()
+
+    def get_form_data(self):
+        """Get the entered metadata as a dict."""
+        return self._dict_from_grid()
+
+    def validate_form(self, *_) -> bool:
+        """validate the currently entered metadata against the pydantic schema.
+        If successful, returns on metadata_emitted and returns true.
+        Otherwise, emits on metadata_cleared and returns false."""
+        try:
+            metadata_dict = self.get_form_data()
+            self._md_schema.model_validate(metadata_dict)
+            self._validity.set_global_state("success")
+            self._validity_message.setText("No errors!")
+            self.metadata_updated.emit(metadata_dict)
+            return True
+        except ValidationError as e:
+            self._validity.set_global_state("emergency")
+            self._validity_message.setText(str(e))
+            self.metadata_cleared.emit(None)
+            return False

bec_widgets/utils/forms_from_types/items.py

@@ -0,0 +1,286 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from abc import abstractmethod
+from decimal import Decimal
+from types import UnionType
+from typing import Callable, Protocol
+
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from bec_qthemes import material_icon
+from pydantic import BaseModel, ConfigDict, Field
+from pydantic.fields import FieldInfo
+from qtpy.QtCore import Signal  # type: ignore
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QApplication,
+    QButtonGroup,
+    QCheckBox,
+    QDoubleSpinBox,
+    QGridLayout,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QLabel,
+    QLayout,
+    QLineEdit,
+    QRadioButton,
+    QSpinBox,
+    QToolButton,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+from bec_widgets.widgets.editors.scan_metadata._util import (
+    clearable_required,
+    field_default,
+    field_limits,
+    field_maxlen,
+    field_minlen,
+    field_precision,
+)
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+class FormItemSpec(BaseModel):
+    """
+    The specification for an item in a dynamically generated form. Uses a pydantic FieldInfo
+    to store most annotation info, since one of the main purposes is to store data for
+    forms genrated from pydantic models, but can also be composed from other sources or by hand.
+    """
+
+    model_config = ConfigDict(arbitrary_types_allowed=True)
+    item_type: type | UnionType
+    name: str
+    info: FieldInfo = FieldInfo()
+
+
+class ClearableBoolEntry(QWidget):
+    stateChanged = Signal()
+
+    def __init__(self, parent: QWidget | None = None) -> None:
+        super().__init__(parent)
+        self._layout = QHBoxLayout()
+        self._layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        self.setLayout(self._layout)
+        self._layout.setSizeConstraint(QLayout.SizeConstraint.SetFixedSize)
+        self._entry = QButtonGroup()
+        self._true = QRadioButton("true", parent=self)
+        self._false = QRadioButton("false", parent=self)
+        for button in [self._true, self._false]:
+            self._layout.addWidget(button)
+            self._entry.addButton(button)
+            button.toggled.connect(self.stateChanged)
+
+    def clear(self):
+        self._entry.setExclusive(False)
+        self._true.setChecked(False)
+        self._false.setChecked(False)
+        self._entry.setExclusive(True)
+
+    def isChecked(self) -> bool | None:
+        if not self._true.isChecked() and not self._false.isChecked():
+            return None
+        return self._true.isChecked()
+
+    def setChecked(self, value: bool | None):
+        if value is None:
+            self.clear()
+        elif value:
+            self._true.setChecked(True)
+            self._false.setChecked(False)
+        else:
+            self._true.setChecked(False)
+            self._false.setChecked(True)
+
+    def setToolTip(self, tooltip: str):
+        self._true.setToolTip(tooltip)
+        self._false.setToolTip(tooltip)
+
+
+class DynamicFormItem(QWidget):
+    valueChanged = Signal()
+
+    def __init__(self, parent: QWidget | None = None, *, spec: FormItemSpec) -> None:
+        super().__init__(parent)
+        self._spec = spec
+        self._layout = QHBoxLayout()
+        self._layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        self._layout.setSizeConstraint(QLayout.SizeConstraint.SetMaximumSize)
+        self._default = field_default(self._spec.info)
+        self._desc = self._spec.info.description
+        self.setLayout(self._layout)
+        self._add_main_widget()
+        if clearable_required(spec.info):
+            self._add_clear_button()
+
+    @abstractmethod
+    def getValue(self): ...
+
+    @abstractmethod
+    def setValue(self, value): ...
+
+    @abstractmethod
+    def _add_main_widget(self) -> None:
+        """Add the main data entry widget to self._main_widget and appply any
+        constraints from the field info"""
+
+    def _describe(self, pad=" "):
+        return pad + (self._desc if self._desc else "")
+
+    def _add_clear_button(self):
+        self._clear_button = QToolButton()
+        self._clear_button.setIcon(
+            material_icon(icon_name="close", size=(10, 10), convert_to_pixmap=False)
+        )
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._clear_button)
+        # the widget added in _add_main_widget must implement .clear() if value is not required
+        self._clear_button.setToolTip("Clear value or reset to default.")
+        self._clear_button.clicked.connect(self._main_widget.clear)  # type: ignore
+
+    def _value_changed(self, *_, **__):
+        self.valueChanged.emit()
+
+
+class StrMetadataField(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)
+
+    def _add_main_widget(self) -> None:
+        self._main_widget = QLineEdit()
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._main_widget)
+        min_length, max_length = (field_minlen(self._spec.info), field_maxlen(self._spec.info))
+        if max_length:
+            self._main_widget.setMaxLength(max_length)
+        self._main_widget.setToolTip(
+            f"(length min: {min_length} max: {max_length}){self._describe()}"
+        )
+        if self._default:
+            self._main_widget.setText(self._default)
+            self._add_clear_button()
+
+    def getValue(self):
+        if self._main_widget.text() == "":
+            return self._default
+        return self._main_widget.text()
+
+    def setValue(self, value: str):
+        if value is None:
+            self._main_widget.setText("")
+        self._main_widget.setText(value)
+
+
+class IntMetadataField(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)
+
+    def _add_main_widget(self) -> None:
+        self._main_widget = QSpinBox()
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._main_widget)
+        min_, max_ = field_limits(self._spec.info, int)
+        self._main_widget.setMinimum(min_)
+        self._main_widget.setMaximum(max_)
+        self._main_widget.setToolTip(f"(range {min_} to {max_}){self._describe()}")
+        if self._default is not None:
+            self._main_widget.setValue(self._default)
+            self._add_clear_button()
+        else:
+            self._main_widget.clear()
+
+    def getValue(self):
+        if self._main_widget.text() == "":
+            return self._default
+        return self._main_widget.value()
+
+    def setValue(self, value: int):
+        if value is None:
+            self._main_widget.clear()
+        self._main_widget.setValue(value)
+
+
+class FloatDecimalMetadataField(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)
+
+    def _add_main_widget(self) -> None:
+        self._main_widget = QDoubleSpinBox()
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._main_widget)
+        min_, max_ = field_limits(self._spec.info, int)
+        self._main_widget.setMinimum(min_)
+        self._main_widget.setMaximum(max_)
+        precision = field_precision(self._spec.info)
+        if precision:
+            self._main_widget.setDecimals(precision)
+        minstr = f"{float(min_):.3f}" if abs(min_) <= 1000 else f"{float(min_):.3e}"
+        maxstr = f"{float(max_):.3f}" if abs(max_) <= 1000 else f"{float(max_):.3e}"
+        self._main_widget.setToolTip(f"(range {minstr} to {maxstr}){self._describe()}")
+        if self._default is not None:
+            self._main_widget.setValue(self._default)
+            self._add_clear_button()
+        else:
+            self._main_widget.clear()
+
+    def getValue(self):
+        if self._main_widget.text() == "":
+            return self._default
+        return self._main_widget.value()
+
+    def setValue(self, value: float):
+        if value is None:
+            self._main_widget.clear()
+        self._main_widget.setValue(value)
+
+
+class BoolMetadataField(DynamicFormItem):
+    def __init__(self, *, parent: QWidget | None = None, spec: FormItemSpec) -> None:
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, spec=spec)
+        self._main_widget.stateChanged.connect(self._value_changed)
+
+    def _add_main_widget(self) -> None:
+        if clearable_required(self._spec.info):
+            self._main_widget = ClearableBoolEntry()
+        else:
+            self._main_widget = QCheckBox()
+        self._layout.addWidget(self._main_widget)
+        self._main_widget.setToolTip(self._describe(""))
+        self._main_widget.setChecked(self._default)  # type: ignore # if there is no default then it will be ClearableBoolEntry and can be set with None
+
+    def getValue(self):
+        return self._main_widget.isChecked()
+
+    def setValue(self, value):
+        self._main_widget.setChecked(value)
+
+
+def widget_from_type(annotation: type | UnionType | None) -> type[DynamicFormItem]:
+    if annotation in [str, str | None]:
+        return StrMetadataField
+    if annotation in [int, int | None]:
+        return IntMetadataField
+    if annotation in [float, float | None, Decimal, Decimal | None]:
+        return FloatDecimalMetadataField
+    if annotation in [bool, bool | None]:
+        return BoolMetadataField
+    else:
+        logger.warning(f"Type {annotation} is not (yet) supported in metadata form creation.")
+        return StrMetadataField
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+
+    class TestModel(BaseModel):
+        value1: str | None = Field(None)
+        value2: bool | None = Field(None)
+        value3: bool = Field(True)
+        value4: int = Field(123)
+        value5: int | None = Field()
+
+    app = QApplication([])
+    w = QWidget()
+    layout = QGridLayout()
+    w.setLayout(layout)
+    for i, (field_name, info) in enumerate(TestModel.model_fields.items()):
+        layout.addWidget(QLabel(field_name), i, 0)
+        layout.addWidget(widget_from_type(info.annotation)(info), i, 1)
+
+    w.show()
+    app.exec()

bec_widgets/utils/fps_counter.py

@@ -0,0 +1,84 @@
+"""
+This module provides a utility class for counting and reporting frames per second (FPS) in a PyQtGraph application.
+
+Classes:
+    FPSCounter: A class that monitors the paint events of a `ViewBox` to calculate and emit FPS values.
+
+Usage:
+    The `FPSCounter` class can be used to monitor the rendering performance of a `ViewBox` in a PyQtGraph application.
+    It connects to the `ViewBox`'s paint event and calculates the FPS over a specified interval, emitting the FPS value
+    at regular intervals.
+
+Example:
+    from qtpy import QtWidgets, QtCore
+    import pyqtgraph as pg
+    from fps_counter import FPSCounter
+
+    app = pg.mkQApp("FPS Counter Example")
+    win = pg.GraphicsLayoutWidget()
+    win.show()
+
+    vb = pg.ViewBox()
+    plot_item = pg.PlotItem(viewBox=vb)
+    win.addItem(plot_item)
+
+    fps_counter = FPSCounter(vb)
+    fps_counter.sigFpsUpdate.connect(lambda fps: print(f"FPS: {fps:.2f}"))
+
+    sys.exit(app.exec_())
+"""
+
+from time import perf_counter
+
+import pyqtgraph as pg
+from qtpy import QtCore
+
+
+class FPSCounter(QtCore.QObject):
+    """
+    A utility class for counting and reporting frames per second (FPS).
+
+    This class connects to a `ViewBox`'s paint event to count the number of
+    frames rendered and calculates the FPS over a specified interval. It emits
+    a signal with the FPS value at regular intervals.
+
+    Attributes:
+        sigFpsUpdate (QtCore.Signal): Signal emitted with the FPS value.
+        view_box (pg.ViewBox): The `ViewBox` instance to monitor.
+    """
+
+    sigFpsUpdate = QtCore.Signal(float)
+
+    def __init__(self, view_box):
+        super().__init__()
+        self.view_box = view_box
+        self.view_box.sigPaint.connect(self.increment_count)
+        self.count = 0
+        self.last_update = perf_counter()
+        self.timer = QtCore.QTimer()
+        self.timer.timeout.connect(self.calculate_fps)
+        self.timer.start(1000)
+
+    def increment_count(self):
+        """
+        Increment the frame count when the `ViewBox` is painted.
+        """
+        self.count += 1
+
+    def calculate_fps(self):
+        """
+        Calculate the frames per second (FPS) based on the number of frames
+        """
+        now = perf_counter()
+        elapsed = now - self.last_update
+        fps = self.count / elapsed if elapsed > 0 else 0.0
+        self.last_update = now
+        self.count = 0
+        self.sigFpsUpdate.emit(fps)
+
+    def cleanup(self):
+        """
+        Clean up the FPS counter by stopping the timer and disconnecting the signal.
+        """
+        self.timer.stop()
+        self.timer.timeout.disconnect(self.calculate_fps)

bec_widgets/utils/generate_designer_plugin.py

@@ -1,17 +1,30 @@
 import inspect
 import os
 import re
+from typing import NamedTuple
 
 from qtpy.QtCore import QObject
 
-EXCLUDED_PLUGINS = ["BECConnector", "BECDockArea", "BECDock"]
+from bec_widgets.utils.name_utils import pascal_to_snake
+
+EXCLUDED_PLUGINS = ["BECConnector", "BECDockArea", "BECDock", "BECFigure"]
+
+
+class PluginFilenames(NamedTuple):
+    register: str
+    plugin: str
+    pyproj: str
+
+
+def plugin_filenames(name: str) -> PluginFilenames:
+    return PluginFilenames(f"register_{name}.py", f"{name}_plugin.py", f"{name}.pyproject")
 
 
 class DesignerPluginInfo:
     def __init__(self, plugin_class):
         self.plugin_class = plugin_class
         self.plugin_name_pascal = plugin_class.__name__
-        self.plugin_name_snake = self.pascal_to_snake(self.plugin_name_pascal)
+        self.plugin_name_snake = pascal_to_snake(self.plugin_name_pascal)
         self.widget_import = f"from {plugin_class.__module__} import {self.plugin_name_pascal}"
         plugin_module = (
             ".".join(plugin_class.__module__.split(".")[:-1]) + f".{self.plugin_name_snake}_plugin"
@@ -27,21 +40,6 @@ class DesignerPluginInfo:
 
         self.base_path = os.path.dirname(inspect.getfile(plugin_class))
 
-    @staticmethod
-    def pascal_to_snake(name: str) -> str:
-        """
-        Convert PascalCase to snake_case.
-
-        Args:
-            name (str): The name to be converted.
-
-        Returns:
-            str: The converted name.
-        """
-        s1 = re.sub(r"([a-z0-9])([A-Z])", r"\1_\2", name)
-        s2 = re.sub(r"([A-Z]+)([A-Z][a-z])", r"\1_\2", s1)
-        return s2.lower()
-
 
 class DesignerPluginGenerator:
     def __init__(self, widget: type):
@@ -53,11 +51,15 @@ class DesignerPluginGenerator:
             self._excluded = True
             return
 
-        self.templates = {}
+        self.templates: dict[str, str] = {}
         self.template_path = os.path.join(
             os.path.dirname(os.path.abspath(__file__)), "plugin_templates"
         )
 
+    @property
+    def filenames(self):
+        return plugin_filenames(self.info.plugin_name_snake)
+
     def run(self, validate=True):
         if self._excluded:
             print(f"Plugin {self.widget.__name__} is excluded from generation.")
@@ -107,31 +109,33 @@ class DesignerPluginGenerator:
                 or bool(init_source.find("super().__init__(parent)") > 0)
             )
 
+        # for the new style classes, we only have one super call. We can therefore check if the
+        # number of __init__ calls is 2 (the class itself and the super class)
+        num_inits = re.findall(r"__init__", init_source)
+        if len(num_inits) == 2 and not super_init_found:
+            super_init_found = bool(
+                init_source.find("super().__init__(parent=parent") > 0
+                or init_source.find("super().__init__(parent,") > 0
+                or init_source.find("super().__init__(parent)") > 0
+            )
+
         if not cls_init_found and not super_init_found:
             raise ValueError(
                 f"Widget class {self.widget.__name__} must call the super constructor with parent."
             )
 
+    def _write_file(self, name: str, contents: str):
+        with open(os.path.join(self.info.base_path, name), "w", encoding="utf-8") as f:
+            f.write(contents)
+
+    def _format(self, name: str):
+        return self.templates[name].format(**self.info.__dict__)
+
     def _write_templates(self):
-        self._write_register()
-        self._write_plugin()
-        self._write_pyproject()
-
-    def _write_register(self):
-        file_path = os.path.join(self.info.base_path, f"register_{self.info.plugin_name_snake}.py")
-        with open(file_path, "w", encoding="utf-8") as f:
-            f.write(self.templates["register"].format(**self.info.__dict__))
-
-    def _write_plugin(self):
-        file_path = os.path.join(self.info.base_path, f"{self.info.plugin_name_snake}_plugin.py")
-        with open(file_path, "w", encoding="utf-8") as f:
-            f.write(self.templates["plugin"].format(**self.info.__dict__))
-
-    def _write_pyproject(self):
-        file_path = os.path.join(self.info.base_path, f"{self.info.plugin_name_snake}.pyproject")
-        out = {"files": [f"{self.info.plugin_class.__module__.split('.')[-1]}.py"]}
-        with open(file_path, "w", encoding="utf-8") as f:
-            f.write(str(out))
+        self._write_file(self.filenames.register, self._format("register"))
+        self._write_file(self.filenames.plugin, self._format("plugin"))
+        pyproj = str({"files": [f"{self.info.plugin_class.__module__.split('.')[-1]}.py"]})
+        self._write_file(self.filenames.pyproj, pyproj)
 
     def _load_templates(self):
         for file in os.listdir(self.template_path):
@@ -143,7 +147,7 @@ class DesignerPluginGenerator:
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     # from bec_widgets.widgets.bec_queue.bec_queue import BECQueue
-    from bec_widgets.widgets.spinner.spinner import SpinnerWidget
+    from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.spinner import SpinnerWidget
 
     generator = DesignerPluginGenerator(SpinnerWidget)
     generator.run(validate=False)

bec_widgets/utils/linear_region_selector.py

@@ -0,0 +1,86 @@
+"""Module for a thin wrapper (LinearRegionWrapper) around the LinearRegionItem in pyqtgraph.
+The class is mainly designed for usage with the BECWaveform and 1D plots."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import pyqtgraph as pg
+from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, Signal, Slot
+from qtpy.QtGui import QColor
+
+
+class LinearRegionWrapper(QObject):
+    """Wrapper class for the LinearRegionItem in pyqtgraph for 1D plots (BECWaveform)
+
+    Args:
+        plot_item (pg.PlotItem): The plot item to add the region selector to.
+        parent (QObject): The parent object.
+        color (QColor): The color of the region selector.
+        hover_color (QColor): The color of the region selector when the mouse is over it.
+    """
+
+    # Signal with the region tuble (start, end)
+    region_changed = Signal(tuple)
+
+    def __init__(
+        self, plot_item: pg.PlotItem, color: QColor = None, hover_color: QColor = None, parent=None
+    ):
+        super().__init__(parent)
+        self.is_log_x = None
+        self._edge_width = 2
+        self.plot_item = plot_item
+        self.linear_region_selector = pg.LinearRegionItem()
+        self.proxy = None
+        self.change_roi_color((color, hover_color))
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+
+    # Slot for changing the color of the region selector (edge and fill)
+    @Slot(tuple)
+    def change_roi_color(self, colors: tuple[QColor | str | tuple, QColor | str | tuple]):
+        """Change the color and hover color of the region selector.
+        Hover color means the color when the mouse is over the region.
+
+        Args:
+            colors (tuple): Tuple with the color and hover color
+        """
+        color, hover_color = colors
+        if color is not None:
+            self.linear_region_selector.setBrush(pg.mkBrush(color))
+        if hover_color is not None:
+            self.linear_region_selector.setHoverBrush(pg.mkBrush(hover_color))
+
+    @Slot()
+    def add_region_selector(self):
+        """Add the region selector to the plot item"""
+        self.plot_item.addItem(self.linear_region_selector)
+        # Use proxy to limit the update rate of the region change signal to 10Hz
+        self.proxy = pg.SignalProxy(
+            self.linear_region_selector.sigRegionChanged,
+            rateLimit=10,
+            slot=self._region_change_proxy,
+        )
+
+    @Slot()
+    def remove_region_selector(self):
+        """Remove the region selector from the plot item"""
+        self.proxy.disconnect()
+        self.proxy = None
+        self.plot_item.removeItem(self.linear_region_selector)
+
+    def _region_change_proxy(self):
+        """Emit the region change signal. If the plot is in log mode, convert the region to log."""
+        x_low, x_high = self.linear_region_selector.getRegion()
+        if self.is_log_x:
+            x_low = 10**x_low
+            x_high = 10**x_high
+        self.region_changed.emit((x_low, x_high))
+
+    @Slot()
+    def check_log(self):
+        """Check if the plot is in log mode."""
+        self.is_log_x = self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.isChecked()
+        self.is_log_y = self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.isChecked()
+
+    def cleanup(self):
+        """Cleanup the widget."""
+        self.remove_region_selector()

bec_widgets/utils/name_utils.py

@@ -0,0 +1,16 @@
+import re
+
+
+def pascal_to_snake(name: str) -> str:
+    """
+    Convert PascalCase to snake_case.
+
+    Args:
+        name (str): The name to be converted.
+
+    Returns:
+        str: The converted name.
+    """
+    s1 = re.sub(r"([a-z0-9])([A-Z])", r"\1_\2", name)
+    s2 = re.sub(r"([A-Z]+)([A-Z][a-z])", r"\1_\2", s1)
+    return s2.lower()

bec_widgets/utils/ophyd_kind_util.py

@@ -0,0 +1,26 @@
+from enum import IntFlag
+
+try:
+
+    from enum import KEEP
+
+    class IFBase(IntFlag, boundary=KEEP): ...
+
+except ImportError:
+
+    IFBase = IntFlag
+
+
+class Kind(IFBase):
+    """
+    This is used in the .kind attribute of all OphydObj (Signals, Devices).
+
+    A Device examines its components' .kind atttribute to decide whether to
+    traverse it in read(), read_configuration(), or neither. Additionally, if
+    decides whether to include its name in `hints['fields']`.
+    """
+
+    omitted = 0b000
+    normal = 0b001
+    config = 0b010
+    hinted = 0b101  # Notice that bool(hinted & normal) is True.

bec_widgets/utils/palette_viewer.py

@@ -0,0 +1,183 @@
+from qtpy.QtCore import Qt
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QApplication,
+    QFrame,
+    QGridLayout,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QLabel,
+    QScrollArea,
+    QSizePolicy,
+    QVBoxLayout,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
+from bec_widgets.utils.colors import get_accent_colors, get_theme_palette
+from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.visual.dark_mode_button.dark_mode_button import DarkModeButton
+
+
+class PaletteViewer(BECWidget, QWidget):
+    """
+    This class is a widget that displays current palette colors.
+    """
+
+    ICON_NAME = "palette"
+    RPC = False
+
+    def __init__(self, *args, parent=None, **kwargs):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent, theme_update=True, **kwargs)
+        self.setFixedSize(400, 600)
+        layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
+        dark_mode_button = DarkModeButton(self)
+        layout.addWidget(dark_mode_button)
+
+        # Create a scroll area to hold the color boxes
+        scroll_area = QScrollArea(self)
+        scroll_area.setWidgetResizable(True)
+        scroll_area.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+
+        # Create a frame to hold the color boxes
+        self.frame = QFrame(self)
+        self.frame_layout = QGridLayout(self.frame)
+        self.frame_layout.setSpacing(0)
+        self.frame_layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+
+        scroll_area.setWidget(self.frame)
+        layout.addWidget(scroll_area)
+
+        self.setLayout(layout)
+
+        self.update_palette()
+
+    def apply_theme(self, theme) -> None:
+        """
+        Apply the theme to the widget.
+
+        Args:
+            theme (str): The theme to apply.
+        """
+        self.update_palette()
+
+    def clear_palette(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Clear the palette colors from the frame.
+        Recursively removes all widgets and layouts in the frame layout.
+        """
+        # Iterate over all items in the layout in reverse to safely remove them
+        for i in reversed(range(self.frame_layout.count())):
+            item = self.frame_layout.itemAt(i)
+
+            # If the item is a layout, clear its contents
+            if isinstance(item, QHBoxLayout):
+                # Recursively remove all widgets from the layout
+                for j in reversed(range(item.count())):
+                    widget = item.itemAt(j).widget()
+                    if widget:
+                        item.removeWidget(widget)
+                        widget.deleteLater()
+                self.frame_layout.removeItem(item)
+
+            # If the item is a widget, remove and delete it
+            elif item.widget():
+                widget = item.widget()
+                self.frame_layout.removeWidget(widget)
+                widget.deleteLater()
+
+    def update_palette(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Update the palette colors in the frame.
+        """
+        self.clear_palette()
+        palette_label = QLabel("Palette Colors (e.g. palette.windowText().color())")
+        palette_label.setStyleSheet("font-weight: bold;")
+        self.frame_layout.addWidget(palette_label, 0, 0)
+
+        palette = get_theme_palette()
+        # Add the palette colors (roles) to the frame
+        palette_roles = [
+            palette.windowText,
+            palette.toolTipText,
+            palette.placeholderText,
+            palette.text,
+            palette.buttonText,
+            palette.highlight,
+            palette.link,
+            palette.light,
+            palette.midlight,
+            palette.mid,
+            palette.shadow,
+            palette.button,
+            palette.brightText,
+            palette.toolTipBase,
+            palette.alternateBase,
+            palette.dark,
+            palette.base,
+            palette.window,
+            palette.highlightedText,
+            palette.linkVisited,
+        ]
+
+        offset = 1
+        for i, pal in enumerate(palette_roles):
+            i += offset
+            color = pal().color()
+            label_layout = QHBoxLayout()
+            color_label = QLabel(f"{pal().color().name()} ({pal.__name__})")
+            background_label = self.background_label_with_clipboard(color)
+            label_layout.addWidget(color_label)
+            label_layout.addWidget(background_label)
+            self.frame_layout.addLayout(label_layout, i, 0)
+
+        # add a horizontal spacer
+        spacer = QLabel()
+        spacer.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Minimum)
+        self.frame_layout.addWidget(spacer, i + 1, 0)
+
+        accent_colors_label = QLabel("Accent Colors (e.g. accent_colors.default)")
+        accent_colors_label.setStyleSheet("font-weight: bold;")
+        self.frame_layout.addWidget(accent_colors_label, i + 2, 0)
+
+        accent_colors = get_accent_colors()
+        items = [
+            (accent_colors.default, "default"),
+            (accent_colors.success, "success"),
+            (accent_colors.warning, "warning"),
+            (accent_colors.emergency, "emergency"),
+            (accent_colors.highlight, "highlight"),
+        ]
+
+        offset = len(palette_roles) + 2
+        for i, (color, name) in enumerate(items):
+            i += offset
+            label_layout = QHBoxLayout()
+            color_label = QLabel(f"{color.name()} ({name})")
+            background_label = self.background_label_with_clipboard(color)
+            label_layout.addWidget(color_label)
+            label_layout.addWidget(background_label)
+            self.frame_layout.addLayout(label_layout, i + 2, 0)
+
+    def background_label_with_clipboard(self, color) -> QLabel:
+        """
+        Create a label with a background color that copies the color to the clipboard when clicked.
+
+        Args:
+            color (QColor): The color to display in the background.
+
+        Returns:
+            QLabel: The label with the background color.
+        """
+        button = QLabel()
+        button.setStyleSheet(f"QLabel {{ background-color: {color.name()}; }}")
+        button.setToolTip("Click to copy color to clipboard")
+        button.setCursor(Qt.PointingHandCursor)
+        button.mousePressEvent = lambda event: QApplication.clipboard().setText(color.name())
+        return button
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    import sys
+
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+    viewer = PaletteViewer()
+    viewer.show()
+    sys.exit(app.exec_())

bec_widgets/utils/plot_indicator_items.py

@@ -0,0 +1,244 @@
+"""Module to create an arrow item for a pyqtgraph plot"""
+
+import numpy as np
+import pyqtgraph as pg
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import QObject, QPointF, Signal, Slot
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.colors import get_accent_colors
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+class BECIndicatorItem(QObject):
+
+    def __init__(self, plot_item: pg.PlotItem = None, parent=None):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent)
+        self.accent_colors = get_accent_colors()
+        self.plot_item = plot_item
+        self._item_on_plot = False
+        self._pos = None
+        self.is_log_x = False
+        self.is_log_y = False
+
+    @property
+    def item_on_plot(self) -> bool:
+        """Returns if the item is on the plot"""
+        return self._item_on_plot
+
+    @item_on_plot.setter
+    def item_on_plot(self, value: bool) -> None:
+        self._item_on_plot = value
+
+    def add_to_plot(self) -> None:
+        """Add the item to the plot"""
+        raise NotImplementedError("Method add_to_plot not implemented")
+
+    def remove_from_plot(self) -> None:
+        """Remove the item from the plot"""
+        raise NotImplementedError("Method remove_from_plot not implemented")
+
+    def set_position(self, pos) -> None:
+        """This method should implement the logic to set the position of the
+        item on the plot. Depending on the child class, the position can be
+        a tuple (x,y) or a single value, i.e. x position where y position is fixed.
+        """
+        raise NotImplementedError("Method set_position not implemented")
+
+    def check_log(self):
+        """Checks if the x or y axis is in log scale and updates the internal state accordingly."""
+        self.is_log_x = self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.isChecked()
+        self.is_log_y = self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.isChecked()
+        self.set_position(self._pos)
+
+
+class BECTickItem(BECIndicatorItem):
+    """Class to create a tick item which can be added to a pyqtgraph plot.
+    The tick item will be added to the layout of the plot item and can be used to indicate
+    a position"""
+
+    position_changed = Signal(float)
+    position_changed_str = Signal(str)
+
+    def __init__(self, plot_item: pg.PlotItem = None, parent=None):
+        super().__init__(plot_item=plot_item, parent=parent)
+        self.tick_item = pg.TickSliderItem(
+            parent=parent, allowAdd=False, allowRemove=False, orientation="bottom"
+        )
+        self.tick_item.skip_auto_range = True
+        self.tick = None
+        self._pos = 0.0
+        self._range = [0, 1]
+
+    @Slot(float)
+    def set_position(self, pos: float) -> None:
+        """Set the x position of the tick item
+
+        Args:
+            pos (float): The position of the tick item.
+        """
+        if self.is_log_x is True:
+            pos = pos if pos > 0 else 1e-10
+            pos = np.log10(pos)
+        self._pos = pos
+        view_box = self.plot_item.getViewBox()  # Ensure you're accessing the correct view box
+        view_range = view_box.viewRange()[0]
+        self.update_range(self.plot_item.vb, view_range)
+        self.position_changed.emit(pos)
+        self.position_changed_str.emit(str(pos))
+
+    @Slot()
+    def update_range(self, _, view_range: tuple[float, float]) -> None:
+        """Update the range of the tick item
+
+        Args:
+            vb (pg.ViewBox): The view box.
+            viewRange (tuple): The view range.
+        """
+        if self._pos < view_range[0] or self._pos > view_range[1]:
+            self.tick_item.setVisible(False)
+        else:
+            self.tick_item.setVisible(True)
+
+        if self.tick_item.isVisible():
+            origin = self.tick_item.tickSize / 2.0
+            length = self.tick_item.length
+
+            length_with_padding = length + self.tick_item.tickSize + 2
+
+            self._range = view_range
+            tick_with_padding = (self._pos - view_range[0]) / (view_range[1] - view_range[0])
+            tick_value = (tick_with_padding * length_with_padding - origin) / length
+            self.tick_item.setTickValue(self.tick, tick_value)
+
+    def add_to_plot(self):
+        """Add the tick item to the view box or plot item."""
+        if self.plot_item is None:
+            return
+
+        self.plot_item.layout.addItem(self.tick_item, 2, 1)
+        self.tick_item.setOrientation("top")
+        self.tick = self.tick_item.addTick(0, movable=False, color=self.accent_colors.highlight)
+        self.update_tick_pos_y()
+        self.plot_item.vb.sigXRangeChanged.connect(self.update_range)
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+        self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+        self.plot_item.vb.geometryChanged.connect(self.update_tick_pos_y)
+        self.item_on_plot = True
+
+    @Slot()
+    def update_tick_pos_y(self):
+        """Update tick position, while respecting the tick_item coordinates"""
+        pos = self.tick.pos()
+        pos = self.tick_item.mapToParent(pos)
+        new_pos = self.plot_item.vb.geometry().bottom()
+        new_pos = self.tick_item.mapFromParent(QPointF(pos.x(), new_pos))
+        self.tick.setPos(new_pos)
+
+    def remove_from_plot(self):
+        """Remove the tick item from the view box or plot item."""
+        if self.plot_item is not None and self.item_on_plot is True:
+            self.plot_item.vb.sigXRangeChanged.disconnect(self.update_range)
+            self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.checkStateChanged.disconnect(self.check_log)
+            self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.checkStateChanged.disconnect(self.check_log)
+            if self.plot_item.layout is not None:
+                self.plot_item.layout.removeItem(self.tick_item)
+        self.item_on_plot = False
+
+    def cleanup(self) -> None:
+        """Cleanup the item"""
+        self.remove_from_plot()
+        self.tick_item = None
+
+
+class BECArrowItem(BECIndicatorItem):
+    """Class to create an arrow item which can be added to a pyqtgraph plot.
+    It can be either added directly to a view box or a plot item.
+    To add the arrow item to a view box or plot item, use the add_to_plot method.
+
+    Args:
+        view_box (pg.ViewBox | pg.PlotItem): The view box or plot item to which the arrow item should be added.
+        parent (QObject): The parent object.
+
+    Signals:
+        position_changed (tuple[float, float]): Signal emitted when the position of the arrow item has changed.
+        position_changed_str (tuple[str, str]): Signal emitted when the position of the arrow item has changed.
+    """
+
+    # Signal to emit if the position of the arrow item has changed
+    position_changed = Signal(tuple)
+    position_changed_str = Signal(tuple)
+
+    def __init__(self, plot_item: pg.PlotItem = None, parent=None):
+        super().__init__(plot_item=plot_item, parent=parent)
+        self.arrow_item = pg.ArrowItem()
+        self.arrow_item.skip_auto_range = True
+        self._pos = (0, 0)
+        self.arrow_item.setVisible(False)
+
+    @Slot(dict)
+    def set_style(self, style: dict) -> None:
+        """Set the style of the arrow item
+
+        Args:
+            style (dict): The style of the arrow item. Dictionary with key,
+                          value pairs which are accepted from the pg.ArrowItem.setStyle method.
+        """
+        self.arrow_item.setStyle(**style)
+
+    @Slot(tuple)
+    def set_position(self, pos: tuple[float, float]) -> None:
+        """Set the position of the arrow item
+
+        Args:
+            pos (tuple): The position of the arrow item as a tuple (x, y).
+        """
+        self._pos = pos
+        pos_x = pos[0]
+        pos_y = pos[1]
+        if self.is_log_x is True:
+            pos_x = np.log10(pos_x) if pos_x > 0 else 1e-10
+            view_box = self.plot_item.getViewBox()  # Ensure you're accessing the correct view box
+            view_range = view_box.viewRange()[0]
+            # Avoid values outside the view range in the negative direction. Otherwise, there is
+            # a buggy behaviour of the arrow item and it appears at the wrong position.
+            if pos_x < view_range[0]:
+                pos_x = view_range[0]
+        if self.is_log_y is True:
+            pos_y = np.log10(pos_y) if pos_y > 0 else 1e-10
+
+        self.arrow_item.setPos(pos_x, pos_y)
+        self.position_changed.emit(self._pos)
+        self.position_changed_str.emit((str(self._pos[0]), str(self._pos[1])))
+
+    def add_to_plot(self):
+        """Add the arrow item to the view box or plot item."""
+        if not self.arrow_item:
+            logger.warning(f"Arrow item was already destroyed, cannot be created")
+            return
+
+        self.arrow_item.setStyle(
+            angle=-90,
+            pen=pg.mkPen(self.accent_colors.emergency, width=1),
+            brush=pg.mkBrush(self.accent_colors.highlight),
+            headLen=20,
+        )
+        self.arrow_item.setVisible(True)
+        if self.plot_item is not None:
+            self.plot_item.addItem(self.arrow_item)
+            self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+            self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.checkStateChanged.connect(self.check_log)
+            self.item_on_plot = True
+
+    def remove_from_plot(self):
+        """Remove the arrow item from the view box or plot item."""
+        if self.plot_item is not None and self.item_on_plot is True:
+            self.plot_item.ctrl.logXCheck.checkStateChanged.disconnect(self.check_log)
+            self.plot_item.ctrl.logYCheck.checkStateChanged.disconnect(self.check_log)
+            self.plot_item.removeItem(self.arrow_item)
+        self.item_on_plot = False
+
+    def cleanup(self) -> None:
+        """Cleanup the item"""
+        self.remove_from_plot()
+        self.arrow_item = None

bec_widgets/utils/plugin_templates/plugin.template

@@ -2,8 +2,8 @@
 # SPDX-License-Identifier: LicenseRef-Qt-Commercial OR BSD-3-Clause
 
 from qtpy.QtDesigner import QDesignerCustomWidgetInterface
-from qtpy.QtGui import QIcon
 
+from bec_widgets.utils.bec_designer import designer_material_icon
 {widget_import}
 
 DOM_XML = """
@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ class {plugin_name_pascal}Plugin(QDesignerCustomWidgetInterface):  # pragma: no
         return ""
 
     def icon(self):
-        return QIcon()
+        return designer_material_icon({plugin_name_pascal}.ICON_NAME)
 
     def includeFile(self):
         return "{plugin_name_snake}"

bec_widgets/utils/plugin_utils.py

@@ -1,7 +1,10 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
 import importlib
 import inspect
 import os
 from dataclasses import dataclass
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING
 
 from bec_lib.plugin_helper import _get_available_plugins
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QGraphicsWidget, QWidget
@@ -9,6 +12,9 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import QGraphicsWidget, QWidget
 from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
 from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
 
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.auto_update.auto_updates import AutoUpdates
+
 
 def get_plugin_widgets() -> dict[str, BECConnector]:
     """
@@ -45,6 +51,40 @@ def _filter_plugins(obj):
     return inspect.isclass(obj) and issubclass(obj, BECConnector)
 
 
+def get_plugin_auto_updates() -> dict[str, type[AutoUpdates]]:
+    """
+    Get all available auto update classes from the plugin directory. AutoUpdates must inherit from AutoUpdate and be
+    placed in the plugin repository's bec_widgets/auto_updates directory. The entry point for the auto updates is
+    specified in the respective pyproject.toml file using the following key:
+        [project.entry-points."bec.widgets.auto_updates"]
+        plugin_widgets_update = "<beamline_name>.bec_widgets.auto_updates"
+
+    e.g.
+        [project.entry-points."bec.widgets.auto_updates"]
+        plugin_widgets_update = "pxiii_bec.bec_widgets.auto_updates"
+
+    Returns:
+        dict[str, AutoUpdates]: A dictionary of widget names and their respective classes.
+    """
+    modules = _get_available_plugins("bec.widgets.auto_updates")
+    loaded_plugins = {}
+    for module in modules:
+        mods = inspect.getmembers(module, predicate=_filter_auto_updates)
+        for name, mod_cls in mods:
+            if name in loaded_plugins:
+                print(f"Duplicated auto update {name}.")
+            loaded_plugins[name] = mod_cls
+    return loaded_plugins
+
+
+def _filter_auto_updates(obj):
+    from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.auto_update.auto_updates import AutoUpdates
+
+    return (
+        inspect.isclass(obj) and issubclass(obj, AutoUpdates) and not obj.__name__ == "AutoUpdates"
+    )
+
+
 @dataclass
 class BECClassInfo:
     name: str
@@ -53,12 +93,18 @@ class BECClassInfo:
     obj: type
     is_connector: bool = False
     is_widget: bool = False
-    is_top_level: bool = False
+    is_plugin: bool = False
 
 
 class BECClassContainer:
     def __init__(self):
-        self._collection = []
+        self._collection: list[BECClassInfo] = []
+
+    def __repr__(self):
+        return str(list(cl.name for cl in self.collection))
+
+    def __iter__(self):
+        return self._collection.__iter__()
 
     def add_class(self, class_info: BECClassInfo):
         """
@@ -88,14 +134,14 @@ class BECClassContainer:
         """
         Get all top-level classes.
         """
-        return [info.obj for info in self.collection if info.is_top_level]
+        return [info.obj for info in self.collection if info.is_plugin]
 
     @property
     def plugins(self):
         """
         Get all plugins. These are all classes that are on the top level and are widgets.
         """
-        return [info.obj for info in self.collection if info.is_widget and info.is_top_level]
+        return [info.obj for info in self.collection if info.is_widget and info.is_plugin]
 
     @property
     def widgets(self):
@@ -109,10 +155,17 @@ class BECClassContainer:
         """
         Get all top-level classes that are RPC-enabled. These are all classes that users can choose from.
         """
-        return [info.obj for info in self.collection if info.is_top_level and info.is_connector]
+        return [info.obj for info in self.collection if info.is_plugin and info.is_connector]
+
+    @property
+    def classes(self):
+        """
+        Get all classes.
+        """
+        return [info.obj for info in self.collection]
 
 
-def get_rpc_classes(repo_name: str) -> BECClassContainer:
+def get_custom_classes(repo_name: str) -> BECClassContainer:
     """
     Get all RPC-enabled classes in the specified repository.
 
@@ -153,6 +206,8 @@ def get_rpc_classes(repo_name: str) -> BECClassContainer:
                         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

bec_widgets/utils/redis_message_waiter.py

@@ -0,0 +1,47 @@
+from bec_lib.serialization import MsgpackSerialization
+from bec_lib.utils import lazy_import_from
+from qtpy.QtCore import QEventLoop, QSocketNotifier, QTimer
+
+MessageObject = lazy_import_from("bec_lib.connector", ("MessageObject",))
+
+
+class QtRedisMessageWaiter:
+    def __init__(self, redis_connector, message_to_wait):
+        self.ev_loop = QEventLoop()
+        self.response = None
+        self.connector = redis_connector
+        self.message_to_wait = message_to_wait
+        self.pubsub = redis_connector._redis_conn.pubsub()
+        self.pubsub.subscribe(self.message_to_wait.endpoint)
+        fd = self.pubsub.connection._sock.fileno()
+        self.notifier = QSocketNotifier(fd, QSocketNotifier.Read)
+        self.notifier.activated.connect(self._pubsub_readable)
+
+    def _msg_received(self, msg_obj):
+        self.response = msg_obj.value
+        self.ev_loop.quit()
+
+    def wait(self, timeout=1):
+        timer = QTimer()
+        timer.singleShot(timeout * 1000, self.ev_loop.quit)
+        self.ev_loop.exec_()
+        timer.stop()
+        self.notifier.setEnabled(False)
+        self.pubsub.close()
+        return self.response
+
+    def _pubsub_readable(self, fd):
+        while True:
+            msg = self.pubsub.get_message()
+            if msg:
+                if msg["type"] == "subscribe":
+                    # get_message buffers, so we may already have the answer
+                    # let's check...
+                    continue
+                else:
+                    break
+            else:
+                return
+        channel = msg["channel"].decode()
+        msg = MessageObject(topic=channel, value=MsgpackSerialization.loads(msg["data"]))
+        self.connector._execute_callback(self._msg_received, msg, {})

bec_widgets/utils/round_frame.py

@@ -0,0 +1,157 @@
+import pyqtgraph as pg
+from qtpy.QtCore import Property
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication, QFrame, QHBoxLayout, QVBoxLayout, QWidget
+
+from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.visual.dark_mode_button.dark_mode_button import DarkModeButton
+
+
+class RoundedFrame(QFrame):
+    """
+    A custom QFrame with rounded corners and optional theme updates.
+    The frame can contain any QWidget, however it is mainly designed to wrap PlotWidgets to provide a consistent look and feel with other BEC Widgets.
+    """
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        parent=None,
+        content_widget: QWidget = None,
+        background_color: str = None,
+        orientation: str = "horizontal",
+        radius: int = 10,
+    ):
+        QFrame.__init__(self, parent)
+
+        self.background_color = background_color
+        self._radius = radius
+
+        # Apply rounded frame styling
+        self.setProperty("skip_settings", True)
+        self.setObjectName("roundedFrame")
+
+        # Create a layout for the frame
+        if orientation == "vertical":
+            self.layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
+            self.layout.setContentsMargins(5, 5, 5, 5)
+        else:
+            self.layout = QHBoxLayout(self)
+            self.layout.setContentsMargins(5, 5, 5, 5)  # Set 5px margin
+
+        # Add the content widget to the layout
+        if content_widget:
+            self.layout.addWidget(content_widget)
+
+        # Store reference to the content widget
+        self.content_widget = content_widget
+
+        # Automatically apply initial styles to the GraphicalLayoutWidget if applicable
+        self.apply_plot_widget_style()
+
+    def apply_theme(self, theme: str):
+        """
+        Apply the theme to the frame and its content if theme updates are enabled.
+        """
+        if self.content_widget is not None and isinstance(
+            self.content_widget, pg.GraphicsLayoutWidget
+        ):
+            self.content_widget.setBackground(self.background_color)
+
+        # Update background color based on the theme
+        if theme == "light":
+            self.background_color = "#e9ecef"  # Subtle contrast for light mode
+        else:
+            self.background_color = "#141414"  # Dark mode
+
+        self.update_style()
+
+    @Property(int)
+    def radius(self):
+        """Radius of the rounded corners."""
+        return self._radius
+
+    @radius.setter
+    def radius(self, value: int):
+        self._radius = value
+        self.update_style()
+
+    def update_style(self):
+        """
+        Update the style of the frame based on the background color.
+        """
+        if self.background_color:
+            self.setStyleSheet(
+                f"""
+                QFrame#roundedFrame {{
+                    background-color: {self.background_color}; 
+                    border-radius: {self._radius}; /* Rounded corners */
+                }}
+            """
+            )
+        self.apply_plot_widget_style()
+
+    def apply_plot_widget_style(self, border: str = "none"):
+        """
+        Automatically apply background, border, and axis styles to the PlotWidget.
+
+        Args:
+            border (str): Border style (e.g., 'none', '1px solid red').
+        """
+        if isinstance(self.content_widget, pg.GraphicsLayoutWidget):
+            # Apply border style via stylesheet
+            self.content_widget.setStyleSheet(
+                f"""
+                GraphicsLayoutWidget {{
+                    border: {border}; /* Explicitly set the border */
+                }}
+            """
+            )
+            self.content_widget.setBackground(self.background_color)
+
+
+class ExampleApp(QWidget):  # pragma: no cover
+    def __init__(self):
+        super().__init__()
+        self.setWindowTitle("Rounded Plots Example")
+
+        # Main layout
+        layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
+
+        dark_button = DarkModeButton()
+
+        # Create PlotWidgets
+        plot1 = pg.GraphicsLayoutWidget()
+        plot_item_1 = pg.PlotItem()
+        plot_item_1.plot([1, 3, 2, 4, 6, 5], pen="r")
+        plot1.plot_item = plot_item_1
+
+        plot2 = pg.GraphicsLayoutWidget()
+        plot_item_2 = pg.PlotItem()
+        plot_item_2.plot([1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32], pen="r")
+        plot2.plot_item = plot_item_2
+
+        # Wrap PlotWidgets in RoundedFrame
+        rounded_plot1 = RoundedFrame(parent=self, content_widget=plot1)
+        rounded_plot2 = RoundedFrame(parent=self, content_widget=plot2)
+
+        # Add to layout
+        layout.addWidget(dark_button)
+        layout.addWidget(rounded_plot1)
+        layout.addWidget(rounded_plot2)
+
+        self.setLayout(layout)
+
+        from qtpy.QtCore import QTimer
+
+        def change_theme():
+            rounded_plot1.apply_theme("light")
+            rounded_plot2.apply_theme("dark")
+
+        QTimer.singleShot(100, change_theme)
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    app = QApplication([])
+
+    window = ExampleApp()
+    window.show()
+
+    app.exec()

bec_widgets/utils/rpc_server.py

@@ -0,0 +1,277 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import functools
+import traceback
+import types
+from contextlib import contextmanager
+from typing import TYPE_CHECKING, Callable, 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 QTimer
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
+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.error_popups import ErrorPopupUtility
+from bec_widgets.widgets.containers.main_window.main_window import BECMainWindow
+
+if TYPE_CHECKING:  # pragma: no cover
+    from bec_lib import messages
+    from qtpy.QtCore import QObject
+else:
+    messages = lazy_import("bec_lib.messages")
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+T = TypeVar("T")
+
+
+@contextmanager
+def rpc_exception_hook(err_func):
+    """This context replaces the popup message box for error display with a specific hook"""
+    # get error popup utility singleton
+    popup = ErrorPopupUtility()
+    # save current setting
+    old_exception_hook = popup.custom_exception_hook
+
+    # install err_func, if it is a callable
+    # IMPORTANT, Keep self here, because this method is overwriting the custom_exception_hook
+    # of the ErrorPopupUtility (popup instance) class.
+    def custom_exception_hook(self, exc_type, value, tb, **kwargs):
+        err_func({"error": popup.get_error_message(exc_type, value, tb)})
+
+    popup.custom_exception_hook = types.MethodType(custom_exception_hook, popup)
+
+    try:
+        yield popup
+    finally:
+        # restore state of error popup utility singleton
+        popup.custom_exception_hook = old_exception_hook
+
+
+class RPCServer:
+
+    client: BECClient
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        gui_id: str,
+        dispatcher: BECDispatcher | None = None,
+        client: BECClient | None = None,
+        config=None,
+        gui_class_id: str = "bec",
+    ) -> None:
+        self.status = messages.BECStatus.BUSY
+        self.dispatcher = BECDispatcher(config=config) if dispatcher is None else dispatcher
+        self.client = self.dispatcher.client if client is None else client
+        self.client.start()
+        self.gui_id = gui_id
+        # register broadcast callback
+        self.rpc_register = RPCRegister()
+        self.rpc_register.add_callback(self.broadcast_registry_update)
+
+        self.dispatcher.connect_slot(
+            self.on_rpc_update, MessageEndpoints.gui_instructions(self.gui_id)
+        )
+
+        # Setup QTimer for heartbeat
+        self._heartbeat_timer = QTimer()
+        self._heartbeat_timer.timeout.connect(self.emit_heartbeat)
+        self._heartbeat_timer.start(200)
+        self._registry_update_callbacks = []
+        self._broadcasted_data = {}
+
+        self.status = messages.BECStatus.RUNNING
+        logger.success(f"Server started with gui_id: {self.gui_id}")
+
+    def on_rpc_update(self, msg: dict, metadata: dict):
+        request_id = metadata.get("request_id")
+        if request_id is None:
+            logger.error("Received RPC instruction without request_id")
+            return
+        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"])
+                method = msg["action"]
+                args = msg["parameter"].get("args", [])
+                kwargs = msg["parameter"].get("kwargs", {})
+                res = self.run_rpc(obj, method, args, kwargs)
+            except Exception:
+                content = traceback.format_exc()
+                logger.error(f"Error while executing RPC instruction: {content}")
+                self.send_response(request_id, False, {"error": content})
+            else:
+                logger.debug(f"RPC instruction executed successfully: {res}")
+                self.send_response(request_id, True, {"result": res})
+
+    def send_response(self, request_id: str, accepted: bool, msg: dict):
+        self.client.connector.set_and_publish(
+            MessageEndpoints.gui_instruction_response(request_id),
+            messages.RequestResponseMessage(accepted=accepted, message=msg),
+            expire=60,
+        )
+
+    def get_object_from_config(self, config: dict):
+        gui_id = config.get("gui_id")
+        obj = self.rpc_register.get_rpc_by_id(gui_id)
+        if obj is None:
+            raise ValueError(f"Object with gui_id {gui_id} not found")
+        return obj
+
+    def run_rpc(self, obj, method, args, kwargs):
+        # Run with rpc registry broadcast, but only once
+        with RPCRegister.delayed_broadcast():
+            logger.debug(f"Running RPC instruction: {method} with args: {args}, kwargs: {kwargs}")
+            method_obj = getattr(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])
+                    res = None
+            else:
+                res = method_obj(*args, **kwargs)
+
+            if isinstance(res, list):
+                res = [self.serialize_object(obj) for obj in res]
+            elif isinstance(res, dict):
+                res = {key: self.serialize_object(val) for key, val in res.items()}
+            else:
+                res = self.serialize_object(res)
+            return res
+
+    def serialize_object(self, obj: T) -> None | dict | T:
+        """
+        Serialize all BECConnector objects.
+
+        Args:
+            obj: The object to be serialized.
+
+        Returns:
+            None | dict | T: The serialized object or None if the object is not a BECConnector.
+        """
+        if not isinstance(obj, BECConnector):
+            return obj
+        # Respect RPC = False
+        if getattr(obj, "RPC", True) is False:
+            return None
+        return self._serialize_bec_connector(obj, wait=True)
+
+    def emit_heartbeat(self) -> None:
+        """
+        Emit a heartbeat message to the GUI server.
+        This method is called periodically to indicate that the server is still running.
+        """
+        logger.trace(f"Emitting heartbeat for {self.gui_id}")
+        try:
+            self.client.connector.set(
+                MessageEndpoints.gui_heartbeat(self.gui_id),
+                messages.StatusMessage(name=self.gui_id, status=self.status, info={}),
+                expire=10,
+            )
+        except RedisError as exc:
+            logger.error(f"Error while emitting heartbeat: {exc}")
+
+    def broadcast_registry_update(self, connections: dict) -> None:
+        """
+        Broadcast the registry update to all the callbacks.
+        This method is called whenever the registry is updated.
+        """
+        data = {}
+        for key, val in connections.items():
+            if not isinstance(val, BECConnector):
+                continue
+            if not getattr(val, "RPC", True):
+                continue
+            data[key] = self._serialize_bec_connector(val)
+        if self._broadcasted_data == data:
+            return
+        self._broadcasted_data = data
+
+        logger.info(f"Broadcasting registry update: {data} for {self.gui_id}")
+        self.client.connector.xadd(
+            MessageEndpoints.gui_registry_state(self.gui_id),
+            msg_dict={"data": messages.GUIRegistryStateMessage(state=data)},
+            max_size=1,
+        )
+
+    def _serialize_bec_connector(self, connector: BECConnector, wait=False) -> dict:
+        """
+        Create the serialization dict for a single BECConnector.
+
+        Args:
+            connector (BECConnector): The BECConnector to serialize.
+            wait (bool): If True, wait until the object is registered in the RPC register.
+
+        Returns:
+            dict: The serialized BECConnector object.
+        """
+
+        config_dict = connector.config.model_dump()
+        config_dict["parent_id"] = getattr(connector, "parent_id", None)
+
+        try:
+            parent = connector.parent()
+            if isinstance(parent, BECMainWindow):
+                container_proxy = parent.gui_id
+            else:
+                container_proxy = None
+        except Exception:
+            container_proxy = None
+
+        if wait:
+            while not self.rpc_register.object_is_registered(connector):
+                QApplication.processEvents()
+
+        widget_class = getattr(connector, "rpc_widget_class", None)
+        if not widget_class:
+            widget_class = connector.__class__.__name__
+
+        return {
+            "gui_id": connector.gui_id,
+            "object_name": connector.object_name or connector.__class__.__name__,
+            "widget_class": widget_class,
+            "config": config_dict,
+            "container_proxy": container_proxy,
+            "__rpc__": 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:
+        """
+        Add a callback to be called whenever the registry is updated.
+        The specified callback is called whenever the registry is updated.
+
+        Args:
+            cb (Callable): The callback to be added. It should accept a dictionary of all the
+            registered RPC objects as an argument.
+        """
+        self._registry_update_callbacks.append(cb)
+
+    def shutdown(self):  # TODO not sure if needed when cleanup is done at level of BECConnector
+        self.status = messages.BECStatus.IDLE
+        self._heartbeat_timer.stop()
+        self.emit_heartbeat()
+        logger.info("Succeded in shutting down CLI server")
+        self.client.shutdown()

bec_widgets/utils/serialization.py

@@ -0,0 +1,44 @@
+from bec_lib.serialization import msgpack
+from qtpy.QtCore import QPointF
+
+
+def register_serializer_extension():
+    """
+    Register the serializer extension for the BECConnector.
+    """
+    if not module_is_registered("bec_widgets.utils.serialization"):
+        msgpack.register_object_hook(encode_qpointf, decode_qpointf)
+
+
+def module_is_registered(module_name: str) -> bool:
+    """
+    Check if the module is registered in the encoder.
+
+    Args:
+        module_name (str): The name of the module to check.
+
+    Returns:
+        bool: True if the module is registered, False otherwise.
+    """
+    # pylint: disable=protected-access
+    for enc in msgpack._encoder:
+        if enc[0].__module__ == module_name:
+            return True
+    return False
+
+
+def encode_qpointf(obj):
+    """
+    Encode a QPointF object to a list of floats. As this is mostly used for sending
+    data to the client, it is not necessary to convert it back to a QPointF object.
+    """
+    if isinstance(obj, QPointF):
+        return [obj.x(), obj.y()]
+    return obj
+
+
+def decode_qpointf(obj):
+    """
+    no-op function since QPointF is encoded as a list of floats.
+    """
+    return obj

bec_widgets/utils/settings_dialog.py

@@ -1,6 +1,11 @@
-from qtpy.QtCore import Slot
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from PySide6.QtGui import QCloseEvent
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import QDialog, QDialogButtonBox, QHBoxLayout, QPushButton, QVBoxLayout, QWidget
 
+from bec_widgets.utils.error_popups import SafeSlot
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
 
 class SettingWidget(QWidget):
     """
@@ -19,14 +24,14 @@ class SettingWidget(QWidget):
     def set_target_widget(self, target_widget: QWidget):
         self.target_widget = target_widget
 
-    @Slot()
+    @SafeSlot()
     def accept_changes(self):
         """
         Accepts the changes made in the settings widget and applies them to the target widget.
         """
         pass
 
-    @Slot(dict)
+    @SafeSlot(dict)
     def display_current_settings(self, config_dict: dict):
         """
         Displays the current settings of the target widget in the settings widget.
@@ -36,6 +41,15 @@ class SettingWidget(QWidget):
         """
         pass
 
+    def cleanup(self):
+        """
+        Cleanup the settings widget.
+        """
+
+    def closeEvent(self, event: QCloseEvent) -> None:
+        self.cleanup()
+        return super().closeEvent(event)
+
 
 class SettingsDialog(QDialog):
     """
@@ -53,12 +67,13 @@ class SettingsDialog(QDialog):
         settings_widget: SettingWidget = None,
         window_title: str = "Settings",
         config: dict = None,
+        modal: bool = False,
         *args,
         **kwargs,
     ):
         super().__init__(parent, *args, **kwargs)
 
-        self.setModal(False)
+        self.setModal(modal)
 
         self.setWindowTitle(window_title)
 
@@ -91,17 +106,40 @@ class SettingsDialog(QDialog):
         ok_button.setDefault(True)
         ok_button.setAutoDefault(True)
 
-    @Slot()
+    @SafeSlot()
     def accept(self):
         """
         Accept the changes made in the settings widget and close the dialog.
         """
         self.widget.accept_changes()
+        self.cleanup()
         super().accept()
 
-    @Slot()
+    @SafeSlot()
+    def reject(self):
+        """
+        Reject the changes made in the settings widget and close the dialog.
+        """
+        self.cleanup()
+        super().reject()
+
+    @SafeSlot()
     def apply_changes(self):
         """
         Apply the changes made in the settings widget without closing the dialog.
         """
         self.widget.accept_changes()
+
+    def cleanup(self):
+        """
+        Cleanup the dialog.
+        """
+        self.button_box.close()
+        self.button_box.deleteLater()
+        self.widget.close()
+        self.widget.deleteLater()
+
+    def closeEvent(self, event):
+        logger.info("Closing settings dialog")
+        self.cleanup()
+        super().closeEvent(event)

bec_widgets/utils/side_panel.py

@@ -0,0 +1,376 @@
+import sys
+from typing import Literal, Optional
+
+from qtpy.QtCore import Property, QEasingCurve, QPropertyAnimation
+from qtpy.QtGui import QAction
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QApplication,
+    QFrame,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QLabel,
+    QMainWindow,
+    QScrollArea,
+    QSizePolicy,
+    QStackedWidget,
+    QVBoxLayout,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+from bec_widgets.utils.toolbar import MaterialIconAction, ModularToolBar
+
+
+class SidePanel(QWidget):
+    """
+    Side panel widget that can be placed on the left, right, top, or bottom of the main widget.
+    """
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        parent=None,
+        orientation: Literal["left", "right", "top", "bottom"] = "left",
+        panel_max_width: int = 200,
+        animation_duration: int = 200,
+        animations_enabled: bool = True,
+    ):
+        super().__init__(parent=parent)
+
+        self.setProperty("skip_settings", True)
+
+        self._orientation = orientation
+        self._panel_max_width = panel_max_width
+        self._animation_duration = animation_duration
+        self._animations_enabled = animations_enabled
+
+        self._panel_width = 0
+        self._panel_height = 0
+        self.panel_visible = False
+        self.current_action: Optional[QAction] = None
+        self.current_index: Optional[int] = None
+        self.switching_actions = False
+
+        self._init_ui()
+
+    def _init_ui(self):
+        """
+        Initialize the UI elements.
+        """
+        if self._orientation in ("left", "right"):
+            self.main_layout = QHBoxLayout(self)
+            self.main_layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+            self.main_layout.setSpacing(0)
+
+            self.toolbar = ModularToolBar(parent=self, target_widget=self, orientation="vertical")
+
+            self.container = QWidget()
+            self.container.layout = QVBoxLayout(self.container)
+            self.container.layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+            self.container.layout.setSpacing(0)
+
+            self.stack_widget = QStackedWidget()
+            self.stack_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+            self.stack_widget.setMinimumWidth(5)
+            self.stack_widget.setMaximumWidth(self._panel_max_width)
+
+            if self._orientation == "left":
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.toolbar)
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.container)
+            else:
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.container)
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.toolbar)
+
+            self.container.layout.addWidget(self.stack_widget)
+
+            self.menu_anim = QPropertyAnimation(self, b"panel_width")
+            self.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Fixed, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+            self.panel_width = 0  # start hidden
+
+        else:
+            self.main_layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
+            self.main_layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+            self.main_layout.setSpacing(0)
+
+            self.toolbar = ModularToolBar(parent=self, target_widget=self, orientation="horizontal")
+
+            self.container = QWidget()
+            self.container.layout = QVBoxLayout(self.container)
+            self.container.layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+            self.container.layout.setSpacing(0)
+
+            self.stack_widget = QStackedWidget()
+            self.stack_widget.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Fixed)
+            self.stack_widget.setMinimumHeight(5)
+            self.stack_widget.setMaximumHeight(self._panel_max_width)
+
+            if self._orientation == "top":
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.toolbar)
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.container)
+            else:
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.container)
+                self.main_layout.addWidget(self.toolbar)
+
+            self.container.layout.addWidget(self.stack_widget)
+
+            self.menu_anim = QPropertyAnimation(self, b"panel_height")
+            self.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Fixed)
+            self.panel_height = 0  # start hidden
+
+        self.menu_anim.setDuration(self._animation_duration)
+        self.menu_anim.setEasingCurve(QEasingCurve.InOutQuad)
+
+    @Property(int)
+    def panel_width(self):
+        """Get the panel width."""
+        return self._panel_width
+
+    @panel_width.setter
+    def panel_width(self, width: int):
+        """Set the panel width."""
+        self._panel_width = width
+        if self._orientation in ("left", "right"):
+            self.stack_widget.setFixedWidth(width)
+
+    @Property(int)
+    def panel_height(self):
+        """Get the panel height."""
+        return self._panel_height
+
+    @panel_height.setter
+    def panel_height(self, height: int):
+        """Set the panel height."""
+        self._panel_height = height
+        if self._orientation in ("top", "bottom"):
+            self.stack_widget.setFixedHeight(height)
+
+    @Property(int)
+    def panel_max_width(self):
+        """Get the maximum width of the panel."""
+        return self._panel_max_width
+
+    @panel_max_width.setter
+    def panel_max_width(self, size: int):
+        """Set the maximum width of the panel."""
+        self._panel_max_width = size
+        if self._orientation in ("left", "right"):
+            self.stack_widget.setMaximumWidth(self._panel_max_width)
+        else:
+            self.stack_widget.setMaximumHeight(self._panel_max_width)
+
+    @Property(int)
+    def animation_duration(self):
+        """Get the duration of the animation."""
+        return self._animation_duration
+
+    @animation_duration.setter
+    def animation_duration(self, duration: int):
+        """Set the duration of the animation."""
+        self._animation_duration = duration
+        self.menu_anim.setDuration(duration)
+
+    @Property(bool)
+    def animations_enabled(self):
+        """Get the status of the animations."""
+        return self._animations_enabled
+
+    @animations_enabled.setter
+    def animations_enabled(self, enabled: bool):
+        """Set the status of the animations."""
+        self._animations_enabled = enabled
+
+    def show_panel(self, idx: int):
+        """
+        Show the side panel with animation and switch to idx.
+        """
+        self.stack_widget.setCurrentIndex(idx)
+        self.panel_visible = True
+        self.current_index = idx
+
+        if self._orientation in ("left", "right"):
+            start_val, end_val = 0, self._panel_max_width
+        else:
+            start_val, end_val = 0, self._panel_max_width
+
+        if self._animations_enabled:
+            self.menu_anim.stop()
+            self.menu_anim.setStartValue(start_val)
+            self.menu_anim.setEndValue(end_val)
+            self.menu_anim.start()
+        else:
+            if self._orientation in ("left", "right"):
+                self.panel_width = end_val
+            else:
+                self.panel_height = end_val
+
+    def hide_panel(self):
+        """
+        Hide the side panel with animation.
+        """
+        self.panel_visible = False
+        self.current_index = None
+
+        if self._orientation in ("left", "right"):
+            start_val, end_val = self._panel_max_width, 0
+        else:
+            start_val, end_val = self._panel_max_width, 0
+
+        if self._animations_enabled:
+            self.menu_anim.stop()
+            self.menu_anim.setStartValue(start_val)
+            self.menu_anim.setEndValue(end_val)
+            self.menu_anim.start()
+        else:
+            if self._orientation in ("left", "right"):
+                self.panel_width = end_val
+            else:
+                self.panel_height = end_val
+
+    def switch_to(self, idx: int):
+        """
+        Switch to the specified index without animation.
+        """
+        if self.current_index != idx:
+            self.stack_widget.setCurrentIndex(idx)
+            self.current_index = idx
+
+    def add_menu(
+        self,
+        action_id: str,
+        icon_name: str,
+        tooltip: str,
+        widget: QWidget,
+        title: str | None = None,
+    ):
+        """
+        Add a menu to the side panel.
+
+        Args:
+            action_id(str): The ID of the action.
+            icon_name(str): The name of the icon.
+            tooltip(str): The tooltip for the action.
+            widget(QWidget): The widget to add to the panel.
+            title(str): The title of the panel.
+        """
+        # container_widget: top-level container for the stacked page
+        container_widget = QWidget()
+        container_layout = QVBoxLayout(container_widget)
+        container_layout.setContentsMargins(0, 0, 0, 0)
+        container_layout.setSpacing(5)
+
+        if title is not None:
+            title_label = QLabel(f"<b>{title}</b>")
+            title_label.setStyleSheet("font-size: 16px;")
+            container_layout.addWidget(title_label)
+
+        # Create a QScrollArea for the actual widget to ensure scrolling if the widget inside is too large
+        scroll_area = QScrollArea()
+        scroll_area.setFrameShape(QFrame.NoFrame)
+        scroll_area.setWidgetResizable(True)
+        # Let the scroll area expand in both directions if there's room
+        scroll_area.setSizePolicy(QSizePolicy.Expanding, QSizePolicy.Expanding)
+        scroll_area.setWidget(widget)
+
+        # Put the scroll area in the container layout
+        container_layout.addWidget(scroll_area)
+
+        # Optionally stretch the scroll area to fill vertical space
+        container_layout.setStretchFactor(scroll_area, 1)
+
+        # Add container_widget to the stacked widget
+        index = self.stack_widget.count()
+        self.stack_widget.addWidget(container_widget)
+
+        # Add an action to the toolbar
+        action = MaterialIconAction(icon_name=icon_name, tooltip=tooltip, checkable=True)
+        self.toolbar.add_action(action_id, action, target_widget=self)
+
+        def on_action_toggled(checked: bool):
+            if self.switching_actions:
+                return
+
+            if checked:
+                if self.current_action and self.current_action != action.action:
+                    self.switching_actions = True
+                    self.current_action.setChecked(False)
+                    self.switching_actions = False
+
+                self.current_action = action.action
+
+                if not self.panel_visible:
+                    self.show_panel(index)
+                else:
+                    self.switch_to(index)
+            else:
+                if self.current_action == action.action:
+                    self.current_action = None
+                    self.hide_panel()
+
+        action.action.toggled.connect(on_action_toggled)
+
+
+############################################
+# DEMO APPLICATION
+############################################
+
+
+class ExampleApp(QMainWindow):  # pragma: no cover
+    def __init__(self):
+        super().__init__()
+        self.setWindowTitle("Side Panel Example")
+
+        central_widget = QWidget()
+        self.setCentralWidget(central_widget)
+        self.layout = QHBoxLayout(central_widget)
+
+        # Create side panel
+        self.side_panel = SidePanel(self, orientation="left", panel_max_width=250)
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.side_panel)
+
+        from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.waveform.waveform import Waveform
+
+        self.plot = Waveform()
+        self.layout.addWidget(self.plot)
+
+        self.add_side_menus()
+
+    def add_side_menus(self):
+        widget1 = QWidget()
+        layout1 = QVBoxLayout(widget1)
+        for i in range(15):
+            layout1.addWidget(QLabel(f"Widget 1 label row {i}"))
+        self.side_panel.add_menu(
+            action_id="widget1",
+            icon_name="counter_1",
+            tooltip="Show Widget 1",
+            widget=widget1,
+            title="Widget 1 Panel",
+        )
+
+        widget2 = QWidget()
+        layout2 = QVBoxLayout(widget2)
+        layout2.addWidget(QLabel("Short widget 2 content"))
+        self.side_panel.add_menu(
+            action_id="widget2",
+            icon_name="counter_2",
+            tooltip="Show Widget 2",
+            widget=widget2,
+            title="Widget 2 Panel",
+        )
+
+        widget3 = QWidget()
+        layout3 = QVBoxLayout(widget3)
+        for i in range(10):
+            layout3.addWidget(QLabel(f"Line {i} for Widget 3"))
+        self.side_panel.add_menu(
+            action_id="widget3",
+            icon_name="counter_3",
+            tooltip="Show Widget 3",
+            widget=widget3,
+            title="Widget 3 Panel",
+        )
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+    window = ExampleApp()
+    window.resize(1000, 700)
+    window.show()
+    sys.exit(app.exec())

bec_widgets/utils/ui_loader.py

@@ -1,16 +1,17 @@
-import os
-
-from qtpy import PYQT6, PYSIDE6, QT_VERSION
+from bec_lib.logger import bec_logger
+from qtpy import PYQT6, PYSIDE6
 from qtpy.QtCore import QFile, QIODevice
 
 from bec_widgets.utils.generate_designer_plugin import DesignerPluginInfo
-from bec_widgets.utils.plugin_utils import get_rpc_classes
+from bec_widgets.utils.plugin_utils import get_custom_classes
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
 
 if PYSIDE6:
     from PySide6.QtUiTools import QUiLoader
 
     class CustomUiLoader(QUiLoader):
-        def __init__(self, baseinstance, custom_widgets: dict = None):
+        def __init__(self, baseinstance, custom_widgets: dict | None = None):
             super().__init__(baseinstance)
             self.custom_widgets = custom_widgets or {}
 
@@ -18,10 +19,9 @@ if PYSIDE6:
 
         def createWidget(self, class_name, parent=None, name=""):
             if class_name in self.custom_widgets:
-                widget = self.custom_widgets[class_name](parent)
-                widget.setObjectName(name)
+                widget = self.custom_widgets[class_name](self.baseinstance)
                 return widget
-            return super().createWidget(class_name, parent, name)
+            return super().createWidget(class_name, self.baseinstance, name)
 
 
 class UILoader:
@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ class UILoader:
     def __init__(self, parent=None):
         self.parent = parent
 
-        widgets = get_rpc_classes("bec_widgets").top_level_classes
+        widgets = get_custom_classes("bec_widgets").classes
 
         self.custom_widgets = {widget.__name__: widget for widget in widgets}
 
@@ -51,7 +51,7 @@ class UILoader:
         Returns:
             QWidget: The loaded widget.
         """
-
+        parent = parent or self.parent
         loader = CustomUiLoader(parent, self.custom_widgets)
         file = QFile(ui_file)
         if not file.open(QIODevice.ReadOnly):

bec_widgets/utils/widget_io.py

@@ -1,6 +1,9 @@
 # pylint: disable=no-name-in-module
+from __future__ import annotations
+
 from abc import ABC, abstractmethod
 
+import shiboken6 as shb
 from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QApplication,
     QCheckBox,
@@ -8,6 +11,7 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QDoubleSpinBox,
     QLabel,
     QLineEdit,
+    QSlider,
     QSpinBox,
     QTableWidget,
     QTableWidgetItem,
@@ -15,33 +19,49 @@ from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
     QWidget,
 )
 
+from bec_widgets.widgets.utility.toggle.toggle import ToggleSwitch
+
 
 class WidgetHandler(ABC):
     """Abstract base class for all widget handlers."""
 
     @abstractmethod
-    def get_value(self, widget: QWidget):
+    def get_value(self, widget: QWidget, **kwargs):
         """Retrieve value from the widget instance."""
 
     @abstractmethod
     def set_value(self, widget: QWidget, value):
         """Set a value on the widget instance."""
 
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: QWidget, slot):
+        """
+        Connect a change signal from this widget to the given slot.
+        If the widget type doesn't have a known "value changed" signal, do nothing.
+
+        slot: a function accepting two arguments (widget, value)
+        """
+        pass
+
 
 class LineEditHandler(WidgetHandler):
     """Handler for QLineEdit widgets."""
 
-    def get_value(self, widget: QLineEdit) -> str:
+    def get_value(self, widget: QLineEdit, **kwargs) -> str:
         return widget.text()
 
     def set_value(self, widget: QLineEdit, value: str) -> None:
         widget.setText(value)
 
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: QLineEdit, slot):
+        widget.textChanged.connect(lambda text, w=widget: slot(w, text))
+
 
 class ComboBoxHandler(WidgetHandler):
     """Handler for QComboBox widgets."""
 
-    def get_value(self, widget: QComboBox) -> int:
+    def get_value(self, widget: QComboBox, as_string: bool = False, **kwargs) -> int | str:
+        if as_string is True:
+            return widget.currentText()
         return widget.currentIndex()
 
     def set_value(self, widget: QComboBox, value: int | str) -> None:
@@ -50,11 +70,16 @@ class ComboBoxHandler(WidgetHandler):
         if isinstance(value, int):
             widget.setCurrentIndex(value)
 
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: QComboBox, slot):
+        # currentIndexChanged(int) or currentIndexChanged(str) both possible.
+        # We use currentIndexChanged(int) for a consistent behavior.
+        widget.currentIndexChanged.connect(lambda idx, w=widget: slot(w, self.get_value(w)))
+
 
 class TableWidgetHandler(WidgetHandler):
     """Handler for QTableWidget widgets."""
 
-    def get_value(self, widget: QTableWidget) -> list:
+    def get_value(self, widget: QTableWidget, **kwargs) -> list:
         return [
             [
                 widget.item(row, col).text() if widget.item(row, col) else ""
@@ -69,39 +94,84 @@ class TableWidgetHandler(WidgetHandler):
                 item = QTableWidgetItem(str(cell_value))
                 widget.setItem(row, col, item)
 
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: QTableWidget, slot):
+        # If desired, we could connect cellChanged(row, col) and then fetch all data.
+        # This might be noisy if table is large.
+        # For demonstration, connect cellChanged to update entire table value.
+        def on_cell_changed(row, col, w=widget):
+            val = self.get_value(w)
+            slot(w, val)
+
+        widget.cellChanged.connect(on_cell_changed)
+
 
 class SpinBoxHandler(WidgetHandler):
     """Handler for QSpinBox and QDoubleSpinBox widgets."""
 
-    def get_value(self, widget):
+    def get_value(self, widget: QSpinBox | QDoubleSpinBox, **kwargs):
         return widget.value()
 
-    def set_value(self, widget, value):
+    def set_value(self, widget: QSpinBox | QDoubleSpinBox, value):
         widget.setValue(value)
 
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: QSpinBox | QDoubleSpinBox, slot):
+        widget.valueChanged.connect(lambda val, w=widget: slot(w, val))
+
 
 class CheckBoxHandler(WidgetHandler):
     """Handler for QCheckBox widgets."""
 
-    def get_value(self, widget):
+    def get_value(self, widget: QCheckBox, **kwargs):
         return widget.isChecked()
 
-    def set_value(self, widget, value):
+    def set_value(self, widget: QCheckBox, value):
         widget.setChecked(value)
 
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: QCheckBox, slot):
+        widget.toggled.connect(lambda val, w=widget: slot(w, val))
+
+
+class SlideHandler(WidgetHandler):
+    """Handler for QCheckBox widgets."""
+
+    def get_value(self, widget: QSlider, **kwargs):
+        return widget.value()
+
+    def set_value(self, widget: QSlider, value):
+        widget.setValue(value)
+
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: QSlider, slot):
+        widget.valueChanged.connect(lambda val, w=widget: slot(w, val))
+
+
+class ToggleSwitchHandler(WidgetHandler):
+    """Handler for ToggleSwitch widgets."""
+
+    def get_value(self, widget: ToggleSwitch, **kwargs):
+        return widget.checked
+
+    def set_value(self, widget: ToggleSwitch, value):
+        widget.checked = value
+
+    def connect_change_signal(self, widget: ToggleSwitch, slot):
+        widget.enabled.connect(lambda val, w=widget: slot(w, val))
+
 
 class LabelHandler(WidgetHandler):
     """Handler for QLabel widgets."""
 
-    def get_value(self, widget):
+    def get_value(self, widget: QLabel, **kwargs):
         return widget.text()
 
-    def set_value(self, widget, value):
+    def set_value(self, widget: QLabel, value):
         widget.setText(value)
 
+    # QLabel typically doesn't have user-editable changes. No signal to connect.
+    # If needed, this can remain empty.
+
 
 class WidgetIO:
-    """Public interface for getting and setting values using handler mapping"""
+    """Public interface for getting, setting values and connecting signals using handler mapping"""
 
     _handlers = {
         QLineEdit: LineEditHandler,
@@ -111,10 +181,12 @@ class WidgetIO:
         QDoubleSpinBox: SpinBoxHandler,
         QCheckBox: CheckBoxHandler,
         QLabel: LabelHandler,
+        ToggleSwitch: ToggleSwitchHandler,
+        QSlider: SlideHandler,
     }
 
     @staticmethod
-    def get_value(widget, ignore_errors=False):
+    def get_value(widget, ignore_errors=False, **kwargs):
         """
         Retrieve value from the widget instance.
 
@@ -124,7 +196,7 @@ class WidgetIO:
         """
         handler_class = WidgetIO._find_handler(widget)
         if handler_class:
-            return handler_class().get_value(widget)  # Instantiate the handler
+            return handler_class().get_value(widget, **kwargs)  # Instantiate the handler
         if not ignore_errors:
             raise ValueError(f"No handler for widget type: {type(widget)}")
         return None
@@ -145,6 +217,17 @@ class WidgetIO:
         elif not ignore_errors:
             raise ValueError(f"No handler for widget type: {type(widget)}")
 
+    @staticmethod
+    def connect_widget_change_signal(widget, slot):
+        """
+        Connect the widget's value-changed signal to a generic slot function (widget, value).
+        This now delegates the logic to the widget's handler.
+        """
+        handler_class = WidgetIO._find_handler(widget)
+        if handler_class:
+            handler = handler_class()
+            handler.connect_change_signal(widget, slot)
+
     @staticmethod
     def check_and_adjust_limits(spin_box: QDoubleSpinBox, number: float):
         """
@@ -193,39 +276,162 @@ class WidgetHierarchy:
         grab_values: bool = False,
         prefix: str = "",
         exclude_internal_widgets: bool = True,
+        only_bec_widgets: bool = False,
+        show_parent: bool = True,
     ) -> None:
         """
         Print the widget hierarchy to the console.
 
         Args:
-            widget: Widget to print the hierarchy of
+            widget: Widget to print the hierarchy of.
             indent(int, optional): Level of indentation.
             grab_values(bool,optional): Whether to grab the values of the widgets.
-            prefix(stc,optional): Custom string prefix for indentation.
+            prefix(str,optional): Custom string prefix for indentation.
             exclude_internal_widgets(bool,optional): Whether to exclude internal widgets (e.g. QComboBox in PyQt6).
+            only_bec_widgets(bool, optional): Whether to print only widgets that are instances of BECWidget.
+            show_parent(bool, optional): Whether to display which BECWidget is the parent of each discovered BECWidget.
         """
-        widget_info = f"{widget.__class__.__name__} ({widget.objectName()})"
-        if grab_values:
-            value = WidgetIO.get_value(widget, ignore_errors=True)
-            value_str = f" [value: {value}]" if value is not None else ""
-            widget_info += value_str
+        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)
 
-        children = widget.children()
-        for child in children:
-            if (
-                exclude_internal_widgets
-                and isinstance(widget, QComboBox)
-                and child.__class__.__name__ in ["QFrame", "QBoxLayout", "QListView"]
-            ):
+        # 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):
                 continue
-            child_prefix = prefix + "  "
-            arrow = "├─ " if child != children[-1] else "└─ "
+
+            # if WidgetHierarchy._get_becwidget_ancestor(child) == widget:
+            child_prefix = prefix + "  └─ "
             WidgetHierarchy.print_widget_hierarchy(
-                child, indent + 1, grab_values, prefix=child_prefix + arrow
+                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,
             )
 
+    @staticmethod
+    def print_becconnector_hierarchy_from_app():
+        """
+        Enumerate ALL BECConnector objects in the QApplication.
+        Also detect if a widget is a PlotBase, and add any data items
+        (PlotDataItem-like) that are also BECConnector objects.
+
+        Build a parent->children graph where each child's 'parent'
+        is its closest BECConnector ancestor. Print the entire hierarchy
+        from the root(s).
+
+        The result is a single, consolidated tree for your entire
+        running GUI, including PlotBase data items that are BECConnector.
+        """
+        import sys
+        from collections import defaultdict
+
+        from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
+
+        from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
+        from bec_widgets.widgets.plots.plot_base import PlotBase
+
+        # 1) Gather ALL QWidget-based BECConnector objects
+        all_qwidgets = QApplication.allWidgets()
+        bec_widgets = set(w for w in all_qwidgets if isinstance(w, BECConnector))
+
+        # 2) Also gather any BECConnector-based data items from PlotBase widgets
+        for w in all_qwidgets:
+            if isinstance(w, PlotBase) and hasattr(w, "plot_item"):
+                plot_item = w.plot_item
+                if hasattr(plot_item, "listDataItems"):
+                    for data_item in plot_item.listDataItems():
+                        if isinstance(data_item, BECConnector):
+                            bec_widgets.add(data_item)
+
+        # 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_map[parent_bec].append(w)
+
+        # 4) Define a recursive printer to show each object's children
+        def print_tree(parent, prefix=""):
+            children = parent_map[parent]
+            for i, child in enumerate(children):
+                connector_class = child.__class__.__name__
+                connector_name = child.objectName() or connector_class
+
+                if parent is None:
+                    parent_label = "None"
+                else:
+                    parent_label = parent.objectName() or parent.__class__.__name__
+
+                line = f"{connector_class} ({connector_name}) parent={parent_label}"
+                # Determine tree-branch symbols
+                is_last = i == len(children) - 1
+                branch_str = "└─ " if is_last else "├─ "
+                print(prefix + branch_str + line)
+
+                # Recurse deeper
+                next_prefix = prefix + ("   " if is_last else "│  ")
+                print_tree(child, prefix=next_prefix)
+
+        # 5) Print top-level items (roots) whose BECConnector parent is None
+        roots = parent_map[None]
+        for r_i, root in enumerate(roots):
+            root_class = root.__class__.__name__
+            root_name = root.objectName() or root_class
+            line = f"{root_class} ({root_name}) parent=None"
+            is_last_root = r_i == len(roots) - 1
+            print(line)
+            # Recurse into its children
+            print_tree(root, prefix="   ")
+
+    @staticmethod
+    def _get_becwidget_ancestor(widget):
+        """
+        Traverse up the parent chain to find the nearest BECConnector.
+        Returns None if none is found.
+        """
+        from bec_widgets.utils import BECConnector
+
+        if not shb.isValid(widget):
+            return None
+        parent = widget.parent()
+        while parent is not None:
+            if isinstance(parent, BECConnector):
+                return parent
+            parent = parent.parent()
+        return None
+
     @staticmethod
     def export_config_to_dict(
         widget: QWidget,
@@ -306,8 +512,8 @@ class WidgetHierarchy:
                 WidgetHierarchy.import_config_from_dict(child, widget_config, set_values)
 
 
-# Example application to demonstrate the usage of the functions
-if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+# Example usage
+def hierarchy_example():  # pragma: no cover
     app = QApplication([])
 
     # Create instance of WidgetHierarchy
@@ -362,3 +568,37 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
     print(f"Config dict new REDUCED: {config_dict_new_reduced}")
 
     app.exec()
+
+
+def widget_io_signal_example():  # pragma: no cover
+    app = QApplication([])
+
+    main_widget = QWidget()
+    layout = QVBoxLayout(main_widget)
+    line_edit = QLineEdit(main_widget)
+    combo_box = QComboBox(main_widget)
+    spin_box = QSpinBox(main_widget)
+    combo_box.addItems(["Option 1", "Option 2", "Option 3"])
+
+    layout.addWidget(line_edit)
+    layout.addWidget(combo_box)
+    layout.addWidget(spin_box)
+
+    main_widget.show()
+
+    def universal_slot(w, val):
+        print(f"Widget {w.objectName() or w} changed, new value: {val}")
+
+    # Connect all supported widgets through their handlers
+    WidgetIO.connect_widget_change_signal(line_edit, universal_slot)
+    WidgetIO.connect_widget_change_signal(combo_box, universal_slot)
+    WidgetIO.connect_widget_change_signal(spin_box, universal_slot)
+
+    app.exec_()
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
+    # Change example function to test different scenarios
+
+    # hierarchy_example()
+    widget_io_signal_example()

bec_widgets/utils/widget_state_manager.py

@@ -0,0 +1,223 @@
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from bec_lib import bec_logger
+from qtpy.QtCore import QSettings
+from qtpy.QtWidgets import (
+    QApplication,
+    QCheckBox,
+    QFileDialog,
+    QHBoxLayout,
+    QLabel,
+    QLineEdit,
+    QPushButton,
+    QSpinBox,
+    QVBoxLayout,
+    QWidget,
+)
+
+logger = bec_logger.logger
+
+
+class WidgetStateManager:
+    """
+    A class to manage the state of a widget by saving and loading the state to and from a INI file.
+
+    Args:
+        widget(QWidget): The widget to manage the state for.
+    """
+
+    def __init__(self, widget):
+        self.widget = widget
+
+    def save_state(self, filename: str = None):
+        """
+        Save the state of the widget to an INI file.
+
+        Args:
+            filename(str): The filename to save the state to.
+        """
+        if not filename:
+            filename, _ = QFileDialog.getSaveFileName(
+                self.widget, "Save Settings", "", "INI Files (*.ini)"
+            )
+        if filename:
+            settings = QSettings(filename, QSettings.IniFormat)
+            self._save_widget_state_qsettings(self.widget, settings)
+
+    def load_state(self, filename: str = None):
+        """
+        Load the state of the widget from an INI file.
+
+        Args:
+            filename(str): The filename to load the state from.
+        """
+        if not filename:
+            filename, _ = QFileDialog.getOpenFileName(
+                self.widget, "Load Settings", "", "INI Files (*.ini)"
+            )
+        if filename:
+            settings = QSettings(filename, QSettings.IniFormat)
+            self._load_widget_state_qsettings(self.widget, settings)
+
+    def _save_widget_state_qsettings(self, widget: QWidget, settings: QSettings):
+        """
+        Save the state of the widget to QSettings.
+
+        Args:
+            widget(QWidget): The widget to save the state for.
+            settings(QSettings): The QSettings object to save the state to.
+        """
+        if widget.property("skip_settings") is True:
+            return
+
+        meta = widget.metaObject()
+        widget_name = self._get_full_widget_name(widget)
+        settings.beginGroup(widget_name)
+        for i in range(meta.propertyCount()):
+            prop = meta.property(i)
+            name = prop.name()
+            if (
+                name == "objectName"
+                or not prop.isReadable()
+                or not prop.isWritable()
+                or not prop.isStored()  # can be extended to fine filter
+            ):
+                continue
+            value = widget.property(name)
+            settings.setValue(name, value)
+        settings.endGroup()
+
+        # Recursively process children (only if they aren't skipped)
+        for child in widget.children():
+            if (
+                child.objectName()
+                and child.property("skip_settings") is not True
+                and not isinstance(child, QLabel)
+            ):
+                self._save_widget_state_qsettings(child, settings)
+
+    def _load_widget_state_qsettings(self, widget: QWidget, settings: QSettings):
+        """
+        Load the state of the widget from QSettings.
+
+        Args:
+            widget(QWidget): The widget to load the state for.
+            settings(QSettings): The QSettings object to load the state from.
+        """
+        if widget.property("skip_settings") is True:
+            return
+
+        meta = widget.metaObject()
+        widget_name = self._get_full_widget_name(widget)
+        settings.beginGroup(widget_name)
+        for i in range(meta.propertyCount()):
+            prop = meta.property(i)
+            name = prop.name()
+            if settings.contains(name):
+                value = settings.value(name)
+                widget.setProperty(name, value)
+        settings.endGroup()
+
+        # Recursively process children (only if they aren't skipped)
+        for child in widget.children():
+            if (
+                child.objectName()
+                and child.property("skip_settings") is not True
+                and not isinstance(child, QLabel)
+            ):
+                self._load_widget_state_qsettings(child, settings)
+
+    def _get_full_widget_name(self, widget: QWidget):
+        """
+        Get the full name of the widget including its parent names.
+
+        Args:
+            widget(QWidget): The widget to get the full name for.
+
+        Returns:
+            str: The full name of the widget.
+        """
+        name = widget.objectName()
+        parent = widget.parent()
+        while parent:
+            obj_name = parent.objectName() or parent.metaObject().className()
+            name = obj_name + "." + name
+            parent = parent.parent()
+        return name
+
+
+class ExampleApp(QWidget):  # pragma: no cover:
+    def __init__(self):
+        super().__init__()
+        self.setObjectName("MainWindow")
+        self.setWindowTitle("State Manager Example")
+
+        layout = QVBoxLayout(self)
+
+        # A line edit to store some user text
+        self.line_edit = QLineEdit(self)
+        self.line_edit.setObjectName("MyLineEdit")
+        self.line_edit.setPlaceholderText("Enter some text here...")
+        layout.addWidget(self.line_edit)
+
+        # A spin box to hold a numeric value
+        self.spin_box = QSpinBox(self)
+        self.spin_box.setObjectName("MySpinBox")
+        self.spin_box.setRange(0, 100)
+        layout.addWidget(self.spin_box)
+
+        # A checkbox to hold a boolean value
+        self.check_box = QCheckBox("Enable feature?", self)
+        self.check_box.setObjectName("MyCheckBox")
+        layout.addWidget(self.check_box)
+
+        # A checkbox that we want to skip
+        self.check_box_skip = QCheckBox("Enable feature - skip save?", self)
+        self.check_box_skip.setProperty("skip_state", True)
+        self.check_box_skip.setObjectName("MyCheckBoxSkip")
+        layout.addWidget(self.check_box_skip)
+
+        #  CREATE A "SIDE PANEL" with nested structure and skip all what is inside
+        self.side_panel = QWidget(self)
+        self.side_panel.setObjectName("SidePanel")
+        self.side_panel.setProperty("skip_settings", True)  # skip the ENTIRE panel
+        layout.addWidget(self.side_panel)
+
+        # Put some sub-widgets inside side_panel
+        panel_layout = QVBoxLayout(self.side_panel)
+        self.panel_label = QLabel("Label in side panel", self.side_panel)
+        self.panel_label.setObjectName("PanelLabel")
+        panel_layout.addWidget(self.panel_label)
+
+        self.panel_edit = QLineEdit(self.side_panel)
+        self.panel_edit.setObjectName("PanelLineEdit")
+        self.panel_edit.setPlaceholderText("I am inside side panel")
+        panel_layout.addWidget(self.panel_edit)
+
+        self.panel_checkbox = QCheckBox("Enable feature in side panel?", self.side_panel)
+        self.panel_checkbox.setObjectName("PanelCheckBox")
+        panel_layout.addWidget(self.panel_checkbox)
+
+        # Save/Load buttons
+        button_layout = QHBoxLayout()
+        self.save_button = QPushButton("Save State", self)
+        self.load_button = QPushButton("Load State", self)
+        button_layout.addWidget(self.save_button)
+        button_layout.addWidget(self.load_button)
+        layout.addLayout(button_layout)
+
+        # Create the state manager
+        self.state_manager = WidgetStateManager(self)
+
+        # Connect buttons
+        self.save_button.clicked.connect(lambda: self.state_manager.save_state())
+        self.load_button.clicked.connect(lambda: self.state_manager.load_state())
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover:
+    import sys
+
+    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
+    w = ExampleApp()
+    w.show()
+    sys.exit(app.exec_())

bec_widgets/widgets/__init__.py

@@ -1 +0,0 @@
-

bec_widgets/widgets/base_classes/device_input_base.py

@@ -1,123 +0,0 @@
-from __future__ import annotations
-
-from bec_widgets.utils import ConnectionConfig
-from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
-
-
-class DeviceInputConfig(ConnectionConfig):
-    device_filter: str | list[str] | None = None
-    default: str | None = None
-    arg_name: str | None = None
-
-
-class DeviceInputBase(BECWidget):
-    """
-    Mixin class for device input widgets. This class provides methods to get the device list and device object based
-    on the current text of the widget.
-    """
-
-    def __init__(self, client=None, config=None, gui_id=None):
-        if config is None:
-            config = DeviceInputConfig(widget_class=self.__class__.__name__)
-        else:
-            if isinstance(config, dict):
-                config = DeviceInputConfig(**config)
-            self.config = config
-        super().__init__(client=client, config=config, gui_id=gui_id)
-
-        self.get_bec_shortcuts()
-        self._device_filter = None
-        self._devices = []
-
-    @property
-    def devices(self) -> list[str]:
-        """
-        Get the list of devices.
-
-        Returns:
-            list[str]: List of devices.
-        """
-        return self._devices
-
-    @devices.setter
-    def devices(self, value: list[str]):
-        """
-        Set the list of devices.
-
-        Args:
-            value: List of devices.
-        """
-        self._devices = value
-
-    def set_device_filter(self, device_filter: str | list[str]):
-        """
-        Set the device filter.
-
-        Args:
-            device_filter(str): Device filter, name of the device class.
-        """
-        self.validate_device_filter(device_filter)
-        self.config.device_filter = device_filter
-        self._device_filter = device_filter
-
-    def set_default_device(self, default_device: str):
-        """
-        Set the default device.
-
-        Args:
-            default_device(str): Default device name.
-        """
-        self.validate_device(default_device)
-        self.config.default = default_device
-
-    def get_device_list(self, filter: str | list[str] | None = None) -> list[str]:
-        """
-        Get the list of device names based on the filter of current BEC client.
-
-        Args:
-            filter(str|None): Class name filter to apply on the device list.
-
-        Returns:
-            devices(list[str]): List of device names.
-        """
-        all_devices = self.dev.enabled_devices
-        if filter is not None:
-            self.validate_device_filter(filter)
-            if isinstance(filter, str):
-                filter = [filter]
-            devices = [device.name for device in all_devices if device.__class__.__name__ in filter]
-        else:
-            devices = [device.name for device in all_devices]
-        return devices
-
-    def get_available_filters(self):
-        """
-        Get the available device classes which can be used as filters.
-        """
-        all_devices = self.dev.enabled_devices
-        filters = {device.__class__.__name__ for device in all_devices}
-        return filters
-
-    def validate_device_filter(self, filter: str | list[str]) -> None:
-        """
-        Validate the device filter if the class name is present in the current BEC instance.
-
-        Args:
-            filter(str|list[str]): Class name to use as a device filter.
-        """
-        if isinstance(filter, str):
-            filter = [filter]
-        available_filters = self.get_available_filters()
-        for f in filter:
-            if f not in available_filters:
-                raise ValueError(f"Device filter {f} is not valid.")
-
-    def validate_device(self, device: str) -> None:
-        """
-        Validate the device if it is present in current BEC instance.
-
-        Args:
-            device(str): Device to validate.
-        """
-        if device not in self.get_device_list(self.config.device_filter):
-            raise ValueError(f"Device {device} is not valid.")

bec_widgets/widgets/bec_queue/bec_queue.py

@@ -1,112 +0,0 @@
-from bec_lib.endpoints import MessageEndpoints
-from qtpy.QtCore import Qt, Slot
-from qtpy.QtWidgets import QHeaderView, QTableWidget, QTableWidgetItem, QWidget
-
-from bec_widgets.utils.bec_connector import ConnectionConfig
-from bec_widgets.utils.bec_widget import BECWidget
-
-
-class BECQueue(BECWidget, QTableWidget):
-    """
-    Widget to display the BEC queue.
-    """
-
-    def __init__(
-        self,
-        parent: QWidget | None = None,
-        client=None,
-        config: ConnectionConfig = None,
-        gui_id: str = None,
-    ):
-        super().__init__(client, config, gui_id)
-        QTableWidget.__init__(self, parent=parent)
-        self.setColumnCount(3)
-        self.setHorizontalHeaderLabels(["Scan Number", "Type", "Status"])
-        header = self.horizontalHeader()
-        header.setSectionResizeMode(QHeaderView.Stretch)
-        self.bec_dispatcher.connect_slot(self.update_queue, MessageEndpoints.scan_queue_status())
-        self.reset_content()
-
-    @Slot(dict, dict)
-    def update_queue(self, content, _metadata):
-        """
-        Update the queue table with the latest queue information.
-
-        Args:
-            content (dict): The queue content.
-            _metadata (dict): The metadata.
-        """
-        # only show the primary queue for now
-        queue_info = content.get("queue", {}).get("primary", {}).get("info", [])
-        self.setRowCount(len(queue_info))
-        self.clearContents()
-
-        if not queue_info:
-            self.reset_content()
-            return
-
-        for index, item in enumerate(queue_info):
-            blocks = item.get("request_blocks", [])
-            scan_types = []
-            scan_numbers = []
-            status = item.get("status", "")
-            for request_block in blocks:
-                scan_type = request_block.get("content", {}).get("scan_type", "")
-                if scan_type:
-                    scan_types.append(scan_type)
-                scan_number = request_block.get("scan_number", "")
-                if scan_number:
-                    scan_numbers.append(str(scan_number))
-            if scan_types:
-                scan_types = ", ".join(scan_types)
-            if scan_numbers:
-                scan_numbers = ", ".join(scan_numbers)
-            self.set_row(index, scan_numbers, scan_types, status)
-
-    def format_item(self, content: str) -> QTableWidgetItem:
-        """
-        Format the content of the table item.
-
-        Args:
-            content (str): The content to be formatted.
-
-        Returns:
-            QTableWidgetItem: The formatted item.
-        """
-        item = QTableWidgetItem(content)
-        item.setTextAlignment(Qt.AlignHCenter | Qt.AlignVCenter)
-        return item
-
-    def set_row(self, index: int, scan_number: str, scan_type: str, status: str):
-        """
-        Set the row of the table.
-
-        Args:
-            index (int): The index of the row.
-            scan_number (str): The scan number.
-            scan_type (str): The scan type.
-            status (str): The status.
-        """
-
-        self.setItem(index, 0, self.format_item(scan_number))
-        self.setItem(index, 1, self.format_item(scan_type))
-        self.setItem(index, 2, self.format_item(status))
-
-    def reset_content(self):
-        """
-        Reset the content of the table.
-        """
-
-        self.setRowCount(1)
-        self.set_row(0, "", "", "")
-
-
-if __name__ == "__main__":  # pragma: no cover
-    import sys
-
-    from qtpy.QtWidgets import QApplication
-
-    app = QApplication(sys.argv)
-    widget = BECQueue()
-    widget.show()
-    sys.exit(app.exec_())