A.4. JavaScript Flash Frameworks The Richer Plugin pattern points out how Flash can benefit Ajax development; these frameworks support Ajax-Flash crossovers. A.4.1. AMFPHPKit AMFPHP (http://amfphp.sourceforge.net/) is an open source implementation of the Flash Remoting framework. Fast, reliable, 100 percent free, and open source. With this new version, we strived to make a product as stable and full-featured as ColdFusion-based remoting (the reference implementation). You also get to use the wonderful NetConnection debugger, which shows you exactly what's being sent between the client and server. Remoting uses AMF, a very lightweight binary format that cuts the bulk out of packets, meaning data exchange is a lot faster than with XML. Open source license (GPL) created by Wolfgang Hamann and maintained by various developers.
A.4.2. Flash JavaScript Integration Kit The Flash JavaScript Integration Kit (http://www.osflash.org/doku.php?id=flashjs) allows for the integration of JavaScript and Flash content. Enables JavaScript to invoke ActionScript functions, and vice versa. All major data types can be passed between the two environments. Open source license (modified Apache 1.1) by multiple open source Flash contributors.
A.4.3. Stream (from July, 2005) Stream (http://www.stormtide.ca/Stream) is a bi-directional Ajax platform that brings Flash XML socket support to JavaScript. Also includes an extensible open source stateful socket server and client management platform. Plugin API (C# and JavaScript client libraries). No more polling (true server-pushed events; not emulated events through polling); see HTTP Streaming (Chapter 6). Ideal for chat, monitoring, and client interaction systems that would requiring polling. Sessions (per-session and per-page state tracking). Event monitoring (Interact with mouse events, including maximum fire rate throttling). Currently at the Alpha, technology preview, proof of concept stage. Download at http://beta.stormtide.ca/files/StreamReleases/StreamAlphaGPL20050709.zip?source=ajaxpatterns. Dual license open source (Commercial License and GPL) by StormTide Digital Studios. Full source available.
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