I am hoping that I get some great feedback from this post. I am not so much seeking an answer to a problem as much as I am looking for expert opinions on FormCalc and Javascript. I should group my questions into a logical format.
First, I'm seeking a possible in-depth tutorial on Javascript. I am looking for something that is similar to how we learned how to type using the QWERTY system. In other words, I would love to find a tutorial that starts with very basic Java programming and progresses to more complex Java (it would be great if the tutorial included some samples). This tutorial can be extensive (I think I would prefer this over a very simple one) or even a scaled down version if greatly effective. In lieu of a tutorial, I am practically willing to pay a reasonable $ amount to attend a week/2 week long course on Java.
Second, I would ask that you pro's provide me with your honest opinions, to include your favorite features and benefits of each program (FormCalc vs. Javascript).
I do know I'm asking for alot, but please take some time and answer my questions. If you feel compelled, I would love for you to share with me your honest thoughts about using LiveCycle to design forms versus designing from within Acrobat X Pro.
Thank you so much in advance and I look forward to hearing from you guys. I promise you that I will cherish all honest feedback.
very respectfully
Mike
JavaScript is a complete general purpose programming language. FormCalc is not. FormCalc does include a number of convenient built-in functions that are not built into JavaScript (e.g., financial and string), and it can simplify certain things. Still, these features can be implemented in JavaScript if you want to stick to a single language. Note that you can use both in a form. I prefer to use JavaScript, mostly because that's what I have most experience with and it's the scripting language of Acrobat.
Regarding Acrobat vs. Designer for forms, you'll find a lot of differing opinions. Both have their strengths, so it really comes down to your particular needs. I generally prefer acroforms since they can take advantage of everything PDF has to offer as well as their relative simplicity. This does not mean they can't be used for rather complicated applications, including dynamic forms. I also find the Designer environment more difficult to work in, but others think just the opposite. For a good discussion of the differences, see: http://acrobatusers.com/blogs/thomp/so-what-difference-between-acroforms-and-xfa
To really understand XFA forms you need to have a good understanding of XML (and XSLT) and the numerous DOMs in XFA and how they're related. Achieving this takes a good amount of time and experience. There's a lot I've yet to learn.
You should be able to find by searching these forums a number of previous topics where these types of issues have been discussed.