Is this possible, meaning writing directly to the output tab in SED as a way of simply logging messages. I understand the acklog log can be tailed but this is just another window that needs to be open.

Any suggestions on the best approach to msg logging would be appreciated.

I cant help with the SED output tab, I am looking forward to an answer to your question myself now.
But, I use the command exec("notepad.exe", "acklog.txt"); at the
end of my code, so it runs just before exit. Maybe you could tie it to a key?

I see, so this opens notepad and displays the full log. I've gotten accustomed to flash/flex where using trace() writes both the log and an IDE specific output window.

Currently I use diag() to write a message and then tail the file. This works and I do get custom log messages where I put them but its pretty slow and like I said you need to swtich between windows especially if your watching some objects.

Being able to use output window in dwbug mode could be useful.

you can also try another approaches like creating a log/debug/output panel or some kind of console to your game/app.

or you can create another window for outputs using win32.

Thanks for the feedback and ideas.