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Populating Tabs with AJAX

C1WebTabStrip's tabs can be populated on demand statically, dynamically, or in a data-driven tree view. The phrase PopulateOnDemand implies that only the information from the selected tab an end-user clicks on is sent to the server. This increases the usability and functionality of the C1WebTabStrip by enabling it to handle large amounts of data without affecting the C1WebTabStrip's performance. The PopulateOnDemand feature supports the AJAX mechanism which causes the information in the Web tab pages to load on demand through callbacks rather than postbacks.

Populate On Demand in Static and Data-Driven Tabs

To enable this feature, in a data-driven or static tree view set the C1WebTabStripGroups PopulateOnDemand property to True at design time.

Populate On Demand in Dynamic Tab Groups

Like static and data-driven tab strips, dynamic tab strips can also use the PopulateOnDemand feature to enable callbacks. The tabs/groups can be populated dynamically through the GroupPopulate event.

How the PopulateOnDemand Property Functions

AJAX allows C1WebTabStrip to load data without having to do a postback to the server, minimizing load time and greatly improving the end-user experience. Using C1WebTabStripGroup's PopulateOnDemand feature, the content in the tab page of the selected tab calls back to the server to retrieve only the information that is requested, unlike with a server postback, where the whole page must be reloaded to update the C1WebTabStrip. End-users can quickly view each tab page in the C1WebTabStrip without seeing the flicker on the screen during load time.

Visual Cues During CallBacks

You can also use a visual cue to show the callback is working when the user clicks something that triggers AJAX actions. For example, C1WebTabStrip has two properties, CallbackWaitImageUrl and CallbackWaitControlID that can be set to provide visual feedback and enhance the application.

The CallbackWaitImageUrl property shows a default spinner  when the AJAX action is triggered. This improves the usability of the Web application by allowing the user to see the AJAX action performing. You can specify a different image by changing the setting in the CallbackWaitImageUrl property. The CallbackWaitControlID property functions the same way, except that it shows a control rather than an image.

Note: If both the CallbackWaitControlID and CallbackWaitImageURL properties are set, CallbackWaitControlID takes precedence over the CallbackWaitImageURL, and only the control appears.

For information on how to use the CallbackWaitImageUrl or CallbackWaitControlID property, see Using Visual Cues During a CallBack.


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