This extension adds a command that will take a selected symbol and overwrite it with an imported file, thus replacing all instances of the symbol. It’s very similar to updating a symbol, except that this allows you to update the symbol with a file that has a different name.
For example, the library might contain a GIF file or a JPG, but the quality is not satisfactory and you want to replace it with a PNG. Normally, you’d have to replace the file with a file that has the same name, but if you select the image that you want replaced in the library and run this command, it will allow you to select any image file and replace the selected library item. Same scenario applies to audio files.
This extension adds a command that will take a selected symbol instance, create a new duplicate in the library, and swap the selected symbol for the newly created duplicate.
I use this command when I want to make a symbol that’s very similar to one that I’ve already got on stage. So if I have a button on stage with text inside it and I want another one exactly like it but with different text, I drag a copy using the opt key (alt on Windows), then I run this command. The command prompts me for a new name, I type it, hit OK, and now I’ve got a duplicated symbol that I can go in and edit without affecting the original.
I’ve also added a feature to replace the name if it contains the name of the original symbol. So, say your original symbol is called back and your original instance is called back_mc, if you name your new symbol next it will update the name of the new instance to next_mc. Otherwise, the original instance name (or lack thereof) will be kept.
UPDATE (9/21/09): DaveW correctly pointed out on the CHF forum that this command largely duplicates functionality that is built into Flash with right-click > Duplicate Symbol. It doesn’t do anything with the instance name, but that’s not a huge difference. In the future I may add something to make this extension more unique, if I find it’s helpful. Feel free to post ideas in the comments section.
