JavaScript Application Cookbook

cookies.js

Practical uses

Individual hit counters, form repopulation, user preferences settings

Version requirement

JavaScript 1.1

Functions

getCookieVal(), GetCookie(), DeleteCookie(), SetCookie()

You want client-state management? How about cool web site greetings for repeat visitors? Need to set up a language switching interface or other user preferences? This code makes setting and getting cookie information really easy. Figures 6-2, 6-3, and 6-4 show cookies.html in action. Notice in Figure 6.2 that the first time the page is loaded, the user is prompted to provide a name. Figure 6.3 displays the greeting that the first-time visitor receives. Figure 6.4 shows that repeat visitors are welcomed back warmly with a personalized hit count.

Figure 6-2. First timers fill in their name once . . .

Figure 6-3. ... get a newcomer’s welcome . . .

Figure 6-4. ... then become one of the gang

This is definitely a simple example of cookie power. Chapter 7 , applies this same code to “remember” user preferences. By the way, if you haven’t fully digested the concept of a cookie, check out the Unofficial Cookie FAQ at http://www.cookiecentral.com/unofficial_cookie_faq.htm. As unofficial as ...