Give games and Web applications a professional look with powerful Flash movies and high-quality animations. Master ActionScript by watching 70 plus videos from the desktop of expert Flash author and developer Livingston on accompanying CD-ROM with code.

Accompanying CD-ROM contains source and published files for examples in the book, demo copy of Flash MX for Windows and Macintosh, Flash Player for your browser, and web links to Flash resource sites.

Introducing actionscript - Using event handlers - Understanding target paths - Understanding and using objects - Using functions - Customizing objects - Using dynamic data - Manipulating data - Using conditional logic - Automating scripts with loops - Getting data in and out of flash - Using XML with flash - Validating and formatting data - Controlling movie clips dynamically - Time-and frame-based dynamism - Scripting for sound - Loading external assets.

Learn how to integrate Macromedia FreeHand and Flash to create vector-based graphics for print and the Web with the official Macromedia training guide for Flash 5 and Freehand 10 Studio, based on the curricula used in Macromedia's own training centers. Project-based tutorial approach leads users through the lessons in the book at their own pace and includes practice files on the CD-ROM.

What the book covers: This is a 100% comprehensive book on the most powerful feature of Macromedia Flash, and an essential tool for interactive Web development. It provides definitive, authoritative information on all aspects of ActionScript, addressing both the beginning, intermediate and advanced scripter. It is packed with real-world insights and examples, and includes a CD-ROM loaded with a library of powerful ActionScripts, sample scripts and Flash pages from the book, and more. ABOUT THE CD-ROM Loaded CD-ROM includes... * Extensive ActionScript libraries from the book * Sample Web pages and templates using advanced ActionScript * Flash and Flash ActionScript Utilities * Additional related software tryouts

* Learn the new, powerful features in the new release of Flash. Covers all new areas of extensibility: commands, tools, timeline effects, behaviors, and advanced topics. This book will allow you to streamline day-to-day development by showing you how to custom-build your own commands and tools. Plenty of useful examples are included throughout to demonstrate each area. * Two books in one: first part will actually get the person to understand and be able to use the Extensibility features, not just copy and paste the code in the book, but have a conceptual understanding of how it works and be able to create their own extensions. The second part of the book will be a complete reference guide, that one will want to keep around to look up commands, syntax, parameters, etc. * At this time, it’s the only book covering the subject, and this book actually covers extensibility in both Flash MX 2004 and Flash MX Professional 2004. * The reference content and example files will be available from the book’s companion site, www.flashextensibility.com – this site aims to be the premier site for designers and developers to go to for Flash extensibility material.

High-demand-Flash skills and techniques are essential for anyone involved in Web motion-and this book delivers the goods Gives advanced developers everything they¿ll need to extend the already extensive functionality of Flash Provides intermediate to advanced users with the tools necessary to master the production process and create professional applications Ultimate resource-filled with developer¿s tips on managing file size and working with sound and interactivity features Includes CD-ROM featuring code from the book

Towes presents an introduction to the technology, as well a guide to implementation of successful applications. Part one provides ten quick steps to get readers familiar with the server. Part two explores the issues affecting appropriate integration of the Communication Server. Key concepts include understanding digital communication solutions, understanding objects, using server side ActionScripting, and more.

Contents of accompanying CD-ROM: Examples and Trial versions of Flash MX 2004, Canvas 9 Professional Ed., Sorenson Squeeze, Swift 3D, Toon Boom Studio.

A grand master of Flash, Penner is known around the world for his technical innovations and organic style. This book provides readers with exclusive insight into the programming and design process of this groundbreaking Flash designer and ActionScript programmer.