This guide was written for readers interested in learning the C++ programming language from scratch, and for both novice and advanced C++ programmers wishing to enhance their knowledge of C++. The text is organized to guide the reader from elementary language concepts to professional software development, with in depth coverage of all the C++ language elements en route.

Learn to program with Flex 3, the powerful tool for building multimedia-rich, interactive Flash applications for the Web. Flex 3: A Beginner's Guide</em> is an easy-to-follow, fast-paced tutorial that allows you to fully grasp the fundamentals, including MXML, ActionScript, Flex Builder, states, transitions, and behaviors. You'll learn how to customize your applications with styles, skins, and themes; access remote data using the XML HTTP Service Request; profile and debug your applications; and manage media assets.

Designed for Easy Learning

• Key Skills & Concepts–Chapter-opening lists of specific skills covered in the chapter
• Ask the Experts–Q&A sections filled with bonus information and helpful tips
• Try This–Short, hands-on exercises to practice your skills
• Notes–Bonus information related to the topic being covered
• Tips–Helpful reminders or alternate ways of doing things
• Cautions–Errors and pitfalls to avoid
• Annotated Syntax–Example code with commentary that describes the programming techniques being illustrated

Learn How to Use XML to Create a Flash Based RSS Reader. Plus How to Export to Adobe Air!
Learn to parse RSS/XML files using ActionScript 3 and create your own custom readers for displaying the information.
You can connect up the reader with your own RSS feeds or Thousands more from other sites. Multiple Feeds are supported too.
The Flash reader can optionally display HTML tags, for example the reader to the right displays pictures because the source feed (Yahoo) includes image tags.
Example Flash files are provided for these two readers, but the design possibilities are limitless. You can choose how it can look to fit your site's style and brand.
This tutorial also includes a seperate movie file which describes how to update your version of Flash CS3 for creating an Adobe AIR Application. Ultimately the same RSS reader can be published as an installable application on your desktop.
This Lesson is compatible with Flash CS3

From understanding the basics to creating advanced effects like explosions and smoke, ActionScript 3.0: Building Particle Systems covers each step involved in creating particles and building particle systems. Instructor Todd Perkins explains how to make a versatile particle class that controls particle movement, gravity, friction, spin, rotation, fading, scaling, and other movement effects. He also demonstrates how each unique particle system can be added to a real world application. Exercise files accompany the course.

FOR THOSE WHO WOULD RATHER BE SHOWN HOW THAN TOLD HOW

SEE HOW TO

• Create, open, and save Expression Design documents

• Navigate documents easily by zooming and scrolling

• Understand how to use the Expression Design interface controls

• Align objects by snapping to grids, guides, and points

• Select objects, path segments, and points with the various selection making tools

• Arrange, align, distribute, and stack objects on the artboard

• Control object visibility and position using Layers panel controls

• Draw shapes and paths using the various drawing tools, such as the Pen, B-spline, and Polyline tools

• Apply object attributes such as fills, strokes, and effects

• Incorporate bitmap images and graphics into your designs

• Create and format editable text objects

• Export in various formats such as XAML, GIF, JPEG, TIFF, and PDF

On the Web

This book uses real world examples to give you a context in which to use the task. This book also includes workshops to help you put together individual tasks into projects.