File Extension: FH4

File Extension Name: FH4

File Extension Description: Adobe Macromedia uses the FH4 file extension in its Freehand Version 4 Drawing. The MIME types are image/x-freehand and image/x-freehand4 (graphic type). Basically the .fh4 files are used to create illustrations and arrange layout for printing and web design use. The complete tools in the .fh4 files can enhance document production, storyboarding, editing for various uses including Adobe Flash.

Using the FH4 can spice up the visual appeal of any document. Printed documents can have the effects as if the information is really coming out and getting through to the reader. When used in the internet, the dynamism of the web pages can be unprecedented. The controls are centralized in the Object panel. Through this panel inspection and changes of the object and text properties is done quickly. Properties like font, stroke, fill, and effects have many attributes that can be used in multiple combinations to have unique visual presentation. The drag and drop property of the Object and Styles panels can be used in redefining graphic style and presentation.

The creativity of the user of FH4 can be channeled through the live effects that do complex editing while preserving the original object. These include bending, sketching, and transforming vector effects and effects like gradient transparency, bevel, and drop shadow.

The FH4 can be integrated with Macromedia Flash for streamlining the development of projects. The whole process of planning, designing, and lay-outing a project can be done in a single document. Macromedia Flash movies (SWFs) can be imported and integrated into the design. These SWFs can be altered via the launch and edit function. Actions like “Go To”; “Play”; or “Stop” and “Load External Movie” or “Get URL” can be assigned using the Action Tool.

The 3D capability which uses the Extrude tool can give live control over functionalities for lighting, rotations, blending, and shared vanishing points. There is also the eraser tool for modification of paths. Another plus is the Alpha channel support for imported bitmaps.

Easy linking is possible by the use of the connector lines. It is a simple dragging tool to map structure of information, flow of data, and site map. The appearance can be customized and applied instantly.

Author: Macromedia

Author URL: http://www.adobe.com/

Associated Applications: Illustrator CS3, Freehand MX

Common Path: N/A