Chapter 6. Tips for Using the Library


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If you've been using Flash for any amount of time, you are familiar with the Library. Most people just look at the Library as a storage cabinet for the symbols in a Flash movie. In this chapter, you take a look at some of the Library's lesser-known functions, as well as some of its features that are new to Flash 5. In particular, look at the following:

  • Sorting options. You can use the sorting options in Flash to quickly sort your Library in ascending or descending order by name , kind of symbol, number of times the item is used, whether an item is being imported or exported, or the date modified.

  • Use Counts and getting rid of unused items. Use this feature to keep track of how many times each item is used. Get rid of unused items to keep your file size small.

  • Swapping images and using the Update feature. You can swap images on the Stage for other images in the Library. You also can use the Update feature to update an image or sound that has been modified outside of Flash.

  • Working with Shared Libraries. Shared Libraries are new to Flash 5. They enable you to link to and use items in external Flash movies. You even can put fonts in a Shared Library to help keep your file size down. There are, however, a couple of issues you need to be aware of when using Shared Libraries; you'll learn about them here.

  • Creating custom Permanent Libraries. If you find yourself using the same elements over and over in your movies, why not just put them in a Library that is available to you directly from the Flash application interface? You'll be surprised how easy it is to do.



Inside Flash
Inside Flash MX (2nd Edition) (Inside (New Riders))
ISBN: 0735712549
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2005
Pages: 257
Authors: Jody Keating

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