Adobe's open source programming framework, Flex SDK, combined with Flash Builder (formerly named Flex Builder) simplifies and streamlines the process for building rich internet applications, or RIAs. Author David Gassner explores the newest release of this powerful toolset in Flash Builder 4 and Flex 4 Essential Training, explaining critical information for developers who are upgrading from Flex 3, but also for those who are new to RIA development. The course culminates in the development of a complete application, integrated with a PHP application server and a MySQL database. Exercise files accompany the course.

Topics include:

* Understanding the history of Adobe Flex
* Installing the Flash Builder components
* Using Eclipse views and editors
* Programming with MXML and integrating MXML and ActionScript
* Debugging Flex applications
* Adding visual controls to a Flex application interface
* Displaying images and dynamic data
* Formatting with CSS
* Skinning Spark components with MXML graphics
* Creating data entry form components
* Integrating with Apache, PHP and MySQL