Event Handlers versus Event Listeners
Sunday, April 30th, 2006
A number of ActionScript classes feature something called events. An event is raised by an object when a certain occurrence happens. For example, when someone hovers over a button symbol in a SWF, the Button.onRollOver event is raised for that particular Button instance. When the mouse is moved elsewhere, the Button.onRollOut event is raised for that same instance. These events take place whether or not anyone takes notice. If you want to actually do something in response to an event, you must manage it with an event handler or an event listener. The choice between these two is determined by the object — some objects expect handlers, some listeners — so hit the ol’ ActionScript Language Reference when in doubt. Handlers are relatively easy, but for some reason, listeners seem to perplex people at first. Let’s take a look at both. Keep reading »
