This is fun. It's a chat application, built with HTML, ASP, and a dash of client-side JavaScript. No software to install, no upgrades to download; a totally thin client.
The key to making this so simple is the use of Application variables. Not only is data storage as simple as reading and writing from the Application() collection, but since everything on the server is in memory, processing is lightning-fast.
I plan to add on to this one, so check back regularly.
See who's on. Download it here (~11K).
3/2/2002: (v1.4) Users are now logged out after a period of inactivity (default 20 minutes), set by the intChatTimeout parameter in input.asp.
A configurable window (IE only; adjust the height from input.asp) in the menu frame now shows the current users; those in gray will time out in five minutes.
12/12/2000: (v1.3) No more conflicting names; security hole patched (thanks, Nameless Man)
Previously, users were able to change their nickname and preferences to malicious code by executing javascript in the address bar. This has been corrected.
Also, a name check has been established to keep users from picking a name already in use.
12/07/2000: (v1.2) "Sign On" bug fixed; /clear, /nick, /logout commands added; persistent user name.
It had been noted that clicking the Sign On button -- instead of just hitting Enter -- resulted in a JavaScript error. This has been remedied.
Three IRC-type commands -- /clear (no parameters), /logout (no parameters), and /nick (new nickname as parameter), are now supported.
Given cookie support, nickname is now remembered between visits.
12/01/2000: (v1.1) Style support added.
Now users can customize their "look" for messages. Everyone seems to want an identity, and this is one way to get it. You can easily add more style features by adjusting the list in chatmenu.asp .
11/30/2000: Source Code available.
This is completely plug and play. Nothing to configure if you don't want to; just unzip it on your web server and it's ready to go. Rudimentary, but ready.
