Introducing DHTML

DHTML is a combination of techniques used to make web pages dynamic. The typical web page consists mostly of HTML (HyperText Markup Language), which is used to link pages to each other and to format headings, tables, lists, etc. Graphics-based browsers allow the use of fonts, pictures, colors, etc. that make web pages attractive. However, HTML is limited to static content: there isn't much more to do than to look at it. DHTML (Dynamic DHTML) enables web pages to change their content on the fly in response to user input.

For instance, in the main page, the descriptions change when you move your mouse over a link. Another example is the "DHTML horizon" heading with the orbiting dots. The dots are actually text dots: you can select them by dragging the mouse near them. DHTML does the animation by rotating the dots every few milliseconds.

Other techniques used for adding web page interaction are host scripting and using plug-ins. In host scripting, the web page typically contains a form e.g., in search engines. When you submit the form, a message is sent to the host which then runs a program and sends a webpage to your computer. Plug-ins, on the other hand, are installable programs that work with your browser. Data and scripts specific to the plug-in is sent to your computer along with the web page, and the plug-in runs the scripts on your computer. DHTML is generally faster than these two.

The next few pages contain demos of DHTML.