It defines the channel concept and explains how channels differ from ordinary web sites. It also explains the concept of the special type of channel called a webtop and describes the type of content appropriate for webtop presentation. Channels deliver dynamic information, which is transparently downloaded in the background, so that it is instantly available, online or off. This chapter discusses web-server channels. A channel is a set of web pages that use push technology to deliver their content automatically to the user's computer in a predetermined manner, rather than being pulled in by an explicit user interaction.
Users can customize what, when, and how often channel information gets pushed to their desktop.
How Channels Differ From Ordinary Web Sites Channels are like regular web sites in that they are built with HTML and JavaScript. They can include Java applets and other features. However, channels differ from web sites because instead of actively browsing to the site whenever they want some information, users subscribe to a channel, and the desired information is pushed to the user's browser at predefined intervals. Channel content can be personalized so users get just the information they want. Channel information is cached, enabling richer content to be used.