Until recently, web pages limited not only the "sedentary" tools, but also font packages for the Internet. What does it mean? Each site was filled with loved ones: Arial, Courier New, Times New Roman ... Originality is over the top! However, progress is forcing developers to look for new ways to solve non-standard problems.
A bit of history ...
The development of Embedded OpenType technology was completed at the turn of the century (1997). In fact, a solution to the problem of the "uniformity" of web pages was found more than 20 years ago. But Microsoft's monopoly prevented the popularization of EOT . What would it give at that time? It would expand not only the capabilities of developers, but prompted further development.
The main role was given to the joint development of Microsoft and Adobe - the OpenType file format. On the benefits - a little later, but the "debugging" lasted more than 10 years. The amount of work done is truly amazing.
Open Type: not a bit of a flaw
TrueType's ideological follower has an impressive set of advantages:
- Supports Unicode, which expanded the number of characters to 65,000.
- The compression process is more rational. The small size guarantees the implementation of both PDF files and web resources.
- Within the family, variations in optical sizes are permissible, and different sets of vector contours are used.
- A feature of Contextual Alternates that changes the character style depending on the context.
Briefly about the main thing
Embedded OpenType technology is attractive not only for its variety of letter styles, but also provides security. The whole secret is in compression and conversion to .eot format, where the web resource address is placed in the root line. If it is not specified, then the characters will not be displayed. Such a protection mechanism has become popular with well-known manufacturers.
The conversion process itself, or rather, the tools for these purposes, was considered one of the main shortcomings. The converter was an exclusive WEFT utility that runs only on the Windows platform. A less significant minus is the protection system that prevents the copying of symbols on the site.
The list of problematic “zones” and methods for solving them were discussed within the framework of the working group (Fonts WG). An alternative solution was found: instead of creating a “free” container using the “root string” scheme, it was added to the OpenType format font.
Why use EOT
This mechanism allows you to protect operating time from unauthorized use. Developers value their creations at hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, they can be understood. It may take several years to create one EOT font (which is below)! Therefore, the “virtual shield” protects intellectual property from encroachment from the outside.
What a font file consists of
There is no longer a question about the EOT. What is it? But some points still cause an interrogative look. Let’s dive into the insides, considering the structural basis of any file:
- general information;
- ISO, Adobe and Apple Unicode encodings;
- table of names and glyphs;
- OpenType assumes digital signature and bitmap features.
Embedded OpenType technology can not only diversify the display of web pages (a variety of symbolic displays), but also protects against piracy. - what is it? Panacea or overvalued populism? The answer to this question lies somewhere in the middle, but the benefits are undeniable. However, there is no guarantee that in a couple of years a new player will not enter the “arms race”.