Chapter 2: Using Components 101

Overview

Macromedia has constructed Flash MX with a few little features that can easily trip up the uninitiated. In addition, many of the same aspects that make components versatile and powerful can also make them slightly confusing to work. If you know what to look for and what to watch out for, components can be extremely valuable resources.

The best way of overcoming these minor hurdles is to simply start working with components. In this chapter, you will work with a relatively simple component that utilizes the default component user interface for the Component Parameters panel, exploring some of the advantages and disadvantages (mostly disadvantages) of the default UI. I'll also explain the parameters you'll encounter and their types.

Most of this book's components use custom user interfaces. However, components available for free frequently utilize the default UI. In addition to learning the basics of components, working with the default UI will help you appreciate the value of good custom UIs.

• The default component UI

• Understanding parameter types and value types

• Experimenting with values