How to reduce memory usage when loading bitmaps from the library?

[Guest]

When I use BitmapData.loadBitmap() to load an image from the library and then attachBitmap() to add it to a MovieClip it takes a lot more memory as opposed to just having the same image inside a MovieClip statically in a frame on it's timeline.

The function dispose() not only clears the BitmapData object but also destroys the previously attached bitmap inside the MovieClip, so it can not be used to free any memory.

Is it how it is supposed to be or is there any other way to dynamically attach bitmaps with memory usage comparable to just having them on stage?

[kglad]

add them to (or convert them to) movieclips and use attachMovie to dynamically add them.

[Guest]

Unfortunately, I need to produce one flat image, so I have to combine different bitmaps  into one "on the fly".

[kglad · Accepted solution]

you can do the same with movieclips: create a bitmapdata instance and use the draw() method to overlay as many as needed.

[Guest]

What do you mean?  BitmapData.loadBitmap() doesn't work with MovieClips, and if I use draw I need to create an instance of a MovieClip to be drawn on stage first.

[kglad]

no, you use attachMovie() to create instance from library movieclips that have a linkage id.

you can then create a bitmapdata instance and use the draw() method to overlay as many as needed.

[Guest]

Got it, thanks!

[kglad]

you're welcome.