Type: Bitmap
    Extension: GIF
      Version: 87a, 89a
  Compression: LZW
  Color Depth: 8-bit
   Maintainer: Compuserve
Specification: ftp://ftp.ncsa.uiuc.edu:/misc/file.formats/graphics.formats/
               ftp://ftp.ncsa.uiuc.edu:/misc/file.formats/graphics.formats/

GIF is a data stream-oriented file format used to define the transmission
protocol of LZW-encoded bitmap data. GIF images may be up to eight bits
(256 colors) in depth and are always compressed. Despite the fact that GIF
supports only 8-bits worth of colors, and the multimedia extensions
introduced in the 89a release have not been widely utilized, GIF still
remains a popular choice for storing lower resolution image data.

The GIF89a specification is available via many BBSs and on-line information
services. You may also obtain the specification directly from CompuServe:

  CompuServe Incorporated
  Attn: Graphics Technology Department
  5000 Arlington Center Boulevard
  Columbus, OH 43220
  Voice: 614.457.8600, 800.848.8199
  FTP:   ftp://ftp.compuserve.com/
  WWW:   http://www.compuserve.com/

Note: Any software created or modified after 01 January 1995 that supports
the capability of reading and/or writing GIF files must obtain a patent
license agreement from Unisys Corporation. See Part I of the FAQ for more
details on the Unisys GIF-LZW license agreements.

Here are a few links specializing in GIF89a animations:

  http://www.fastlane.net/~samiel/anim.shtml
    GIF Animation Secrets

  http://member.aol.com/royalef/gifanim.htm
    Royal Frazier's GIF Animation on the WWW

  http://www.peritas.com/~abw/multigif.html
    MultiGIF GIF89a Animation Utility

  http://www.iis.ee.ethz.ch/~kiwi/GIFMerge/
    GIFMerge Utility