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Introduction

You are viewing a framed document.  The display consists of four static frames defined by two framesets.  Each frame contains its own HTML document which is loaded and displayed independently of the documents displayed in any other frame.  That is the unique capability of the framed document.  HTML code can be targeted to, loaded dynamically and displayed independently in any defined frame without altering the fundamental display characteristics of the underlying design of the document frame structure or changing the contents of any other frame.

There are advantages and disadvantages to framed HTML documents. 

Advantages Disadvantages
 
  • The content of any frame can be changed dynamically and, in higher-end browsers, reloaded dynamically.

    Follow this link to see this effect.

  • Each frame is independent of every other frame.

    Background audio or video files embedded or placed in a static frame can be played continuously while the user browses content in dynamic frames.

  • The user can be given control over the size of frames.

  • Navigation of page contents can be made easier for the user.

    See the Table of Contents frame at the left.

 
  • Framed documents are considerably more difficult to manage and maintain than ordinary HTML documents.

  • Many Internet users do not like frames and find them annoying.

  • Low-end browsers (below 2.x) are not frames capable.

    As many as 10 - 15% of users may still using older, frames incapable browsers.

  • Users can get trapped in frames within frames within frames.

    Follow this link to see this effect, then reset frames.

Earlier versions (2.x and below) of all browsers are not capable of displaying framed documents so it is advisable to include a <BODY> HTML Document Segment following the frameset enclosed within the <NOFRAMES> </NOFRAMES> command tag pair.  Browsers which are not frames capable will selectively ignore the frameset and load the code contained within the noframes HTML Document Segment.

Many Internet users do not like framed documents because they are prone to display difficulties generally caused by poor coding.  It is advisable to provide a means to escape to a non-framed alternative and a means to clear the existing frameset and replace it with a fresh one.  Many HTML developers fail to provide these alternatives, which has probably helped to foster a general aversion to framed documents.

Framed documents require considerably more effort to develop and maintain than non-framed documents.  Their use should be restricted to applications in which the special features they offer are necessary.  Some of the display functions of frames can be accomplished with tables.