by David Nagel
Executive Producer
dnagel@digitalmedianet.com

Macromedia today launched a new exchange site for Flash 5 artists and developers. The new exchange, similar to the company's other exchange sites, allows users to share resources for Flash 5 for free, including extensions, ActionScript samples, Macromedia Generator templates and source files.

Free extensions on the Exchange currently range from ready-made interactive files to server-side technologies. New button libraries and Smart Clips for HTML-style user interface widgets (scrolling text windows, tool tips, tabbing between fields) are also available. ActionScript samples "reveal the secrets of programmatic animations," according to Macromedia, while 10 new Macromedia Generator objects enable automated production of menus and data-driven content. A new open-source Java-based server takes advantage of XML sockets in Macromedia Flash 5 for exchange of structured data.

The Macromedia Extension Manager is available as a free download from the Exchange for Flash site and is required to install new extensions. Once installed, the Extension Manager is accessible directly from within the Macromedia Flash 5 software.

Many of the files available on the site are reviewed by users, and some are tested by Macromedia and rated "Marcomedia Approved." Users can also receive e-mails announced new posts on the exchange. Both Macintosh and Windows files are supported.

The Exchange for Flash can be accessed at http://www.exchange.macromedia.com.

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