Some of the advantages of GIF format include the following:

1. Lossless Image   images are compressed but they don't lose their high quality.
2. Interlacing   an interlaced image can load immediately at the beginning of the download process. First, it'll appear blurry with low resolution. Later, as the download progresses, the image will become sharper and clearer.
3. Transparent Background   the background of the page will appear through the image, making the image itself look as part of the page rather than a simple graphic nested inside a rectangle.
4. Browser Compatibility    GIF is supported by all browsers.

There are some disadvantages associated with using GIF. They include:

1. Large Size for Complex Pictures   GIF requires more space for complex pictures, i.e., pictures with more colors.
2. Only Supports 256 Colors   although a high color version is being considered, it's still not implemented for use.
3. Copyright   many times, we have to go through legal steps to use this format. And most users or developers don't want to face legal issues.

Here are some of the popular animation tools available for use:

1. Animagic GIF Animator:
   • Provides smaller file size.
   • Can create animations from individual
     frames or from existing GIF's.
2. ObjectDancer from PaceWorks:
   • Many layers of transparencies.
   • Audio synchronization feature.
   • Exports animations to QuickTime,
     Animated GIF, and Java formats.
3. FutureSplash Animator:
   • Requires a plug-in (for Netscape)
     or ActiveX Control (for Internet Explorer).
   • Exports animations to QuickTime,
     AVI, and Animated GIF formats.

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Site Created November 30, 1999 - by Group " Media2000."
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