Exploring JavaScript
JavaScript is a scripting language developed by Sun Microsystems and initially meant to let Web browsers manage resources on far-flung servers by running scripts to control the servers from a desktop. It soon became a popular scripting language because it runs on so many types of computers, including Windows, Macintosh, and Unix. Now, JavaScript is used for both server and desktop programs. Because it is based largely on the object-oriented approach taken by professional computer languages such as C and C++, it can be difficult for nonprogrammers to use.
| Cross-Reference ‚ | The JavaScript functionality in InDesign CS was not available before this book went to press. For updated information on how to use JavaScript with InDesign, go to this book's companion Web site, www.INDDcentral.com . |
| Tip ‚ | There are lots of JavaScript editor programs available. Most of these are developed by individuals and small firms, so the list is always changing. I recommend you use the Google search engine ( www.google.com ) and search for JavaScript editor to find the most current programs. |
Before you venture too far into scripting, you should review the JavaScript- related information provided with InDesign:
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JavaScript documentation and tools. Sun places the very technical JavaScript documentation on its Web site at http://devedge.netscape.com/central/javascript/ . A good independent source is the O'Reilly & Associates Web site's scripting section ( http://scripting.oreilly.com ).
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InDesign scripting documentation. The InDesign CD contains a 600-plus-page PDF file that explains JavaScript programming for InDesign. This document, although a bit on the technical side, is a valuable resource. It includes an overview of JavaScript scripting and the object model, as well as a list of InDesign-specific scripting terms and scripting examples.
If you want still more information about JavaScript, several books are available, including JavaScript: The Definitive Guide , by David Flanagan; Beginning JavaScript , by Paul Wilton; and JavaScript Bible , 4th Edition , by Danny Goodman.
