Converting Layers to Tables


This chapter has talked about the pros and cons of using tables, frames, and layers for developing your website layout. If you recall, tables are reliable because all browsers tend to render tables the same. Layers, on the other hand, become problematic when it comes to rendering them in older browsers. For development, though, layers are easy to use and draw, whereas tables can get cumbersomeespecially when it comes to nesting tables. So which do you choose? How about both?

Dreamweaver offers a great tool that enables you to convert either your layers to tables or your layers to a table. This enables you to design in whichever layout method you prefer and then convert your pages to the other presentation method later on down the road.

To convert layers to tables, save your page and then choose Modify, Convert, Layers to Table. The Convert Layers to Table dialog box (see Figure 26.29) enables you to decide whether you prefer the most accurate method of conversion or that which creates the smallest file size. If you choose to create the smallest, Dreamweaver removes cells that are empty and are smaller than a specific pixel size, which you can choose.

Figure 26.29. The Covert Layers to Table dialog box helps you convert your layers to tables.


In addition, you can select whether or not to use transparent GIFs, whether you want the resulting table centered on the page, and a host of additional layout options.

The Convert Tables to Layers dialog box (see Figure 26.30) offers the same layout options, which determine whether, during the process, Dreamweaver prevents layers from overlapping, automatically opens the Layers panel, shows the design grid, and snaps the layers to that grid.

Figure 26.30. The Covert Tables to Layers dialog box allows you to configure how the layout will be displayed.


If you opt to use one of these methods, be aware that Dreamweaver does a great job, but it's not always 100% faithful to your original design. In some cases, you need to do some tweaking to the pages to ensure that your design behaves as expected.



Special Edition Using Macromedia Studio 8
Special Edition Using Macromedia Studio 8
ISBN: 0789733854
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 337

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