H Flash Site: Launching Offline Flash Player

An H Flash Site allows users to play Flash content offline using a custom scheme URL. This guide explains how to use an HFlashPlayer handler to launch Flash content directly from your computer.

Setting up HFlashPlayer

To use the HFlashPlayer, follow these steps:

1. Download and Extract: Download the HFlashPlayer tool from the official release page and extract the files to your desired location.

2. Register HFlashPlayer: Run HFlashPlayer.exe. You might encounter a User Account Control prompt; accept it to update the necessary registry entries. This step ensures your system recognizes the custom scheme URL.

3. Launch Flash Content: Open a web page containing Flash content using the custom h-flash scheme. Click the provided “CLICK TO PLAY” link to launch the content offline using the registered HFlashPlayer.

Using HFlashPlayer on All Websites

While the HFlashPlayer works directly with h-flash scheme URLs, extending its functionality to all websites requires a user script. This script adds a button to existing Flash plugin objects, enabling offline playback on any site hosting Flash content. This provides a broader application for playing Flash content offline.

HFlashPlayer for Webmasters: Integrating Custom Scheme

Webmasters can integrate the HFlashPlayer into their websites for seamless offline Flash playback:

1. Customize Scheme (Optional): Modify the Scheme property within the Form1.cs file to define a custom scheme. Rebuild the application after making changes. This allows for personalized branding and control over the launch process.

2. Construct Launch URL: Create the launch URL by combining the scheme header with the Base64 encoded full path to the SWF file. For instance:

   var url = "hflash://" + btoa("http://yoursite.com/" + swfpath);

   This URL structure tells the HFlashPlayer where to find the Flash content on your server.

Important Considerations for Webmasters:

• No URL Encoding for SWF Path: The swfpath itself does not require URL encoding.
• Built-in Base64 Encoding: Modern browsers include the btoa() function for Base64 encoding, simplifying the process.
• Launch Method: Opening the launch URL in a new window may result in a blank page. Instead, utilize a hidden iframe to launch the Flash content without disrupting the user experience. The h-flash site uses this method to prevent functionality issues.

Troubleshooting HFlashPlayer Issues

Use this checklist to diagnose and resolve common problems:

Problem: Clicking “CLICK TO PLAY” or “HFlashPlayer” has no effect.

• Solution 1: HFlashPlayer might not be registered correctly. Rerun HFlashPlayer.exe to ensure proper registration.
• Solution 2: Browser or antivirus software could be blocking the request. Check browser settings or try a different browser. Ensure your security software allows the HFlashPlayer to function.

Problem: A blank window appears and remains blank.

• Solution: Check the File menu in HFlashPlayer. The first entry displays the attempted launch URL. Copy and paste this URL into your browser to verify if the file is accessible. This helps pinpoint network or file access issues.

Possible Issues with the URL:

• Browser Check/Captcha: Network firewalls might flag your network as unsafe. Download the Flash content for offline playback or utilize a proxy server.
• Proxy Usage: If using a proxy, ensure that FlashPlayer.exe also utilizes the proxy settings. This ensures consistent network access for the application.

If you encounter issues not listed above, please submit a new issue report to the HFlashPlayer developers for assistance.