What is an alpha channel?

[theGuest]

Check this out for starters: http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/A/alpha_channel.html

Depending on what type of application you're using the alpha channel in, it can serve a couple purposes. But it has one specific characteristic in any case -- it contains only 256 levels of grey tones, including black and white.

In 3D for instance, it can serves and a masking tool.
In Photoshop, an alpha channel can store a selection, be used for a layer mask, or create a heightmap 'bump' effect when applied through the 'Lighting Effects Filter'.

Do a search on the term.
You'll find tons of specific info on this topic. :bounce:

[singularity2006]

oooh, very cool, thanks for the nfo.

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