PageCharmer 1.0 is a Java-based program which allows you to design custom Java applets from a library of four Java applet classes. The program is cleverly designed in the way it uses, creates and formats HTML, and in its ability to let you view your work as you do it. One of the drawbacks of the program, however, is that it relies on your Web browser to do that viewing. Let me explain. . .
PageCharmer 1.0 is launched by opening a HTML document in your Web browser. On the HTML page, you then select which class of Java applet you wish to create: Image Map, Multi-Media Buttons, Animated Marquees or Scrolling Tickers. Once you have selected a class, you are transported to the customization page. This is where PageCharmer 1.0 becomes interesting.
On the customization, or Applet Creation, page, depending on the class of applet you choose, you can alter the size, color, images (using your own custom images if desired), sounds (again, using your own sounds if desired), motion or scrolling speed, or points on a selected image map, without knowing one bit of Java or JavaScript! You simply use the text input fields or the pull-down menus to select or change almost every aspect of the applet. As you do so -- and here is the neat thing about PageCharmer 1.0 -- it will update your changes in real time, so you can see what you just did and undo it if you're not happy with the effect.
Once you have achieved the look you desire for your chosen applet, you simply click the button at the bottom of the page and, as my children would say, "Poof, there it is!" -- the Java applet's HTML code is ready to copy and paste into your HTML document or your multimedia production. Add the correct folders of classes, images and sounds in the proper places, and your Java applet is ready. (Getting the right classes, images and sounds into the right folder structure can be a lesson in patience for the beginner, but intermediate and professional users should have little or no trouble with this.)
There is a downside to this program's operation. Due to its dependence on a Web browser, the program is only as stable on your machine as your Web browser is. By this I mean that, if you go to Java-enabled Web sites and your browser crashes, the same will happen in the middle of designing an applet with PageCharmer 1.0. I experienced a few Web browser crashes while reviewing PageCharmer 1.0, but I will say that the program was probably not at fault, since if I go to a Java-enabled site my browser will crash sometimes. Also, if you do not own a Java-capable browser, this product is useless to you. But then, if you don't have a Java-capable browser you're either at a school or government agency, or you're in the cyber-stone ages. ;->
The included HTML-based User's Guide is well written and fairly easy to understand, and answers most questions. If you have a question or problem not covered in the User's Guide, and you have access to the Internet, there are links to Mainstay's Web site and tech support right on the User's Guide pages.
In a Nutshell:
The scrolling marquee above that says, "PageCharmer 1.0 Review By: WilliamLH" was created in about twenty minutes with PageCharmer 1.0 and Netscape Communicator 4.0 Pro.
If you are a beginning Web page builder, PageCharmer 1.0 is a great way to get Java applets into your Web pages with no Java programming experience, but you must understand file hierarchy. If you are a professional Web designer or multimedia programmer, some of these applets can save time in building requested Java effects for a client's Web site or multimedia production. PageCharmer 1.0 is a nice tool to have in one's toolbox. The price is reasonable, and the program is relatively simple and self-explanatory (except possibly for very ripe beginners). For a 1.0 version, Mainstay has done a nice job with PageCharmer.
I would like to see PageCharmer 2.0 as a stand-alone Java program that does not rely on a Web browser to perform its tasks.
Price:
Suggested Retail: $99.99
Street Price: $59.99 - $99.99
System Requirements:
Any computer (Macintosh, Win95/NT, UNIX, Solaris) with a Java-capable Internet browser (such as Netscape Navigator 3.0 or higher, or Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0 or higher), with Java enabled.
Technical Support:
Via the World Wide Web and e-mail. If you should need it.
Reviewers Grade:
Copyright © 1997, WilliamLH, All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.
WilliamLH's reviews can be viewed at WilliamLH's Reviews, and he is the creator of The Mac Trading Post (tm).
