Module chromes are the xhtml output that is wrapped around your modules contents. By default, Joomla has a number of different types to choose from. These are usual pre-set when a template is developed and cannot be changed without digging in the templates code.

With Morph, we wanted to give you as much control over what is loaded in you site and how. To be honest, we weren't satisfied with the chrome options that were available by default. Lucky for us (and you!), Joomla 1.5 gives us the option to create our own chromes.

What exactly are module chromes?

Chromes is a term used in Joomla to refer to the various ways a module (core Joomla building block) can be output to the website front end interface. This gives users and developers more control. More importantly, multiple chromes can be created.

Module chromes defined by Joomla

"Module chrome allows template designers to have a certain amount of control over the way the output from a Module is displayed in their template. Essentially, it consists of a small amount of predefined HTML which is inserted before, after, or around the output from each module, and which can then be styled using CSS. Module chrome is commonly used to provide borders around modules, especially with rounded corners, but it can be used for much more than that." Read more on joomla.org

Taking Chromes to a whole new level of flexibility and scalability

Joomla ChromeFX in MorphChromeFX gives the power to you, the user. You can completely change the output of each block of content, based on its use and content.

Morph is made up of a number of building blocks, each of which relate to a particular module position in Joomla. The output, ie. chromes, of these blocks are controlled using ChromeFX in Morph.

We have included 5 different chrome options for you to choose from: Basic XHTML, Basic Grid, ModFX Grid, Module Tabs and Outline. Every single module position in Morph can have a different chrome set. See 3 examples of use below.

Basic chrome

If you are using a block for a simple image header set it to a basic chrome to save precious "div's" from loading. Use this option in most cases, as it will output the least amount of xhtml necessary.

Tabs

Tabs are great for saving space and is probably the neatest of all chromes. Each of the modules content automatically becomes the tab content and the module header becomes the tab title.

Intelli grid

Alternatively, you can even turn a block into an intelligent grid position which will automatically calculate the space for your modules depending on the number assigned.

The Morph feature roadmap includes a long list of additional Chromes to give you even more options to change the output of each block of content.

read more about "the fx range features"