How to Read a Binary File Over HTTP and Write to Disk Using ASP.NET and C#

Updated on 11/18/2009 at 5:34PM EST

Have you ever had the need to grab a binary file from a remote server over HTTP, and save it to your server, using ASP.NET? It may not sound like a common request, or even a difficult one. But there are a few tricks to accomplishing your goal. One challenge I encountered was that using a BinaryReader required some buffering code. A blind call to read the stream would often only return a portion of the file.

EP Henry Project Gallery Launched

Updated on 9/28/2009 at 10:41PM EST

EP Henry asked us to create a web application which would allow their prospective customers to browse their vast library of installation photographs, print them, search for specific types of projects, create collections of favorites, leave sticky notes on individual projects, tell friends or contractors, view as a slideshow, and more. The site also had to function as a sales tool for contractors, allowing them to show off their projects by specific products, colors and patterns. They also needed to be able to search on product codes, and use it as a supplement for the latest EP Henry catalog.

Additionally, the site had to be content managed, allowing them easy access to a powerful set of tools for creating projects, uploading photos, managing users, products, colors and patterns. They also needed to be able to report on the usage of the site, and gather lists of prospective customers.

And on top of all that, it had to be extensible for future feature enhancements, like mobile access and media RSS feeds. And did we mentioned that this had to be created in three weeks?

Mezzocode was able to achieve all of this and more using ASP.NET, C#, SQL Server, the Halide3 API, and Javascript with jQuery. We even created a landing page that shows itself periodically, showcasing featured projects and providing a quick overview of the site. We even added finishing touches, like an animated slideshow, and rollover popups for products, colors and patterns. We're quite proud of our accomplishments given the scope and timeframe, and EP Henry was thrilled as well. We hope you'll check out the site and see for yourself.

http://photogallery.ephenry.com