Java and JavaScript Freebies

If you're new to Web authoring, you're probably wondering "What is the deal with Java?" and "What can it do for me?" Well, Java (and its cousin, JavaScript) are programming languages that allow small programs (or applets) to run on your computer when you launch a Web site. If you've seen a page that featured some cool effect, like scrolling text, or a pop-up window, odds are you're looking at a Java applet in action. If you'd like to include such cool features on your site you have two choices. You may either learn how to write Java programs yourself (a tough task) or you can go to any one of the various sites on the Web that offer free Java programs. Below is a roundup of many of the best Java and JavaScript repositories on the Web. Many offer free Java applets, or "copy & paste" JavaScript, with instructions for including them on your site. Others offer tutorials for learning the languages.

JavaScript Corral Lasso yourself some cool and useful free JavaScripts at this fast-loading, helpful site. Here, you'll find JavaScripts for pop-up images, mouse-over effects, clocks, scrollers, dates, menus and more. Just cut and paste the scripts you want. The site includes tutorials and instructions for implementing the scripts. A1 JavaScripts If you're interested in JavaScript, this site is a must-bookmark. Here, you'll find over 300 free working JavaScripts that you can easily cut and paste onto your pages. There are also online tools here that let you create your own JavaScripts. Categories include page effects, site navigation, status bar effects, time related scripts and more. JavaScript Tip of the Week No longer updated, but still a useful resource, the JavaScript Tip of the Week archive is a collection of 30 coding tips with complete source code, working examples, and commentary. Pulldown Menu This popular, free JavaScript makes it easy for you to install a handy pull-down menu on your site, with a minimum of fuss. Includes handy instructions for installation. JavaScript 2 Looking for free JavaScript? This unique search engine indexes over 9,000 free JavaScript codes offered by the Web's major JavaScript libraries. This site also displays a dynamic list of the Web's top 30 JavaScript search keyword queries. JunkMachine This popular free service allows you to easily create your own cool, eye-catching Java applets for your Web site. No knowledge of Java programming is required. The JunkMachine will generate HTML code that you can simply cut and paste onto your site. You can either use this applet at this site or download the necessary .class files and run the applet locally (which they recommend, due to the high traffic at this site). (This applet was formerly known as the JavaMachine, but had to undergo a name change for trademark reasons). JavaScript 4 U A helpful Web ring focusing on JavaScript sources for Webmasters. Includes scripts for scrollers; clocks, pop-up Windows, games, dates, forms, buttons, background changes, animation, menus and more.