Ajax For Dummies (PDF)

Ajax is short for "Asynchronous
JavaScript+CSS+DOM+XMLHttpRequest."

Even if you weren't intimidated before, that tidbit is
probably enough to make you reach for the Excedrin. Just reach for
Ajax For Dummies instead. With screen shots, actual code and
explanations, and live Web sites where you can see Ajax
applications doing their thing, it will have you using Ajax to
create Web applications that look an act like desktop applications
in no time. With Ajax, you can speed up and clean up your Web
applications. Shoppers at your online store can fill their carts
without waiting for multiple page refreshes. Searchers on your
sites can get instant results on the same page.

This guide takes you on a tour of how Ajax is used today,
complete with examples of Ajax applications in action, such as an
Ajax-enabled Yahoo! search or an Ajax-based chat application. Then
it gives you basics on using JavaScript. After that you dive in and
get info on:

* Writing some Ajax, interactive mouseovers using Ajax, passing
data to the server with GET or POST, and more

* Connecting to Google for a live search

* Using free Ajax frameworks so you don't have to start
from scratch, including Ajax Gold (written specifically for this
book), AJAXLib, and grabbing XML with libXmlRequest

* All kinds of Ajax techniques, such as using Ajax for
drag-and-drop operations, pop-up menus, downloading images behind
the scenes, and more

* Using SACK (simple AJAX code kit), decoding XML with Sarissa,
and creating visual effects with Rico

* Handling XML int Ajax Applications

* Working with cascading style sheets (CCS) in Ajax, including
setting up the styles, displaying a menu, styling text, handling
colors and backgrounds, and more

* Working with Ajax and PHP

Complete with a companion Web site, free Ajax frameworks, and
sample code you can use, Ajax for Dummies is your friendly
guide to creating truly user-friendly Web sites!

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are
not included as part of eBook file.