How to Create a Flash Menu in DreamWeaver MX
Dreamweaver MX is an older version of the popular web design program Dreamweaver, but you can still use it to create attractive and functional web pages. One of the convenient things about using Dreamweaver is that it allows you to easily incorporate Flash components. Unfortunately, in 2004 when Dreamweaver MX was written, the "Adobe-style" Flash drop-down menu was not commonly used. Therefore, it's not a standard part of the program and would ordinarily require extensive hand coding. Since it's likely that you don't have the time to do this, there are other ways you can get the Flash menus you crave without all the work.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Before You Start
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1
Visit the Dreamweaver Support Center on the Adobe website and download the Dreamweaver MX 2004 Updater. This update improves stability and performance.
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2
Choose an extension pack that you would like to install. An extension pack will enable you to select a menu from several different styles and easily add it to your pages in Dreamweaver MX. This will not be free. However, an extension that enables you to use an older version of Dreamweaver is much more affordable than upgrading to Dreamweaver CS4. Examples of an extension you could download include MaxiMenu, available at http://www.dwuser.com/maximenu/, or the "Adobe" style drop-down menu tool at http://f-source.com/buy/adobeMenu/mx2004.php. Each one of these options costs less than $50. MaxiMenu has the advantage of being compatible with newer versions of Dreamweaver as well.
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3
Purchase and download the extension pack you have selected and follow the instructions to install it into Dreamweaver.
Creating A Flash Menu Using MaxiMenu
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1
Open Dreamweaver and either open an existing or define a new Dreamweaver Site.
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2
Place the cursor where you would like to have your new menu.
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3
Select "Insert > DWUser" and look for the blue MaxiMenu icon. Click on it and you will see a MaxiMenu Wizard pop up.
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4
When the "Supporting Files Installation" window appears, enter in the location where you would like supporting files to be stored.
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5
Use the Editor wizard to choose options for your new menu. In the "Data" tab, enter the words you want to appear. You also may edit the "Skins" (choose from preset styles), "Size and Settings" and "Menu Styles." If you need detailed instructions about each aspect of the Editor Wizard, they are available in the MaxiMenu online help area.
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6
When you've finished designing your menu, click "Save and Exit." Then click "Insert."
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1
Tips & Warnings
Verify that whatever extension pack you choose has functionality in your version of Dreamweaver MX and your operating system. Don't waste money on software you can't use.
