Adobe 38040334 User Guide - Page 608

DREAMWEAVER CS3 601 User Guide Client-side role of forms Forms support the client side of the client-server relationship. When a visitor enters information into a form displayed in a web browser (the client) and clicks the submit button, the information is sent to the server where a server-side script or application processes it. The server responds by sending requested information back to the user (or client), or performing some action based on the form's contents. Note: You can also send form data directly to an e-mail recipient. Form objects In Dreamweaver, form input types are called form objects. Form objects are the mechanisms that allow users to input data. You can add the following form objects to a form: Text fields Accept any type of alphanumeric text entry. The text can be displayed as a single line, multiple lines, and as a password field where entered text is replaced by asterisks or bullets to hide the text from onlookers. Note: Passwords and other information sent to a server using a password field are not encrypted. The transferred data can be intercepted and read as alphanumeric text. For this reason, you should always provide encryption for data you want to keep secure. Hidden fields Store information entered by a user, such as a name, e-mail address, or viewing preference, and then use that data when the user next visits the site. Buttons Perform actions when clicked. You can add a custom name or label for a button, or use one of the predefined "Submit" or "Reset" labels. Use a button to submit form data to the server or to reset the form. You can also assign other processing tasks that you define in a script. For example, the button might calculate the total cost of items selected based on assigned values. September 4, 2007