Asp.Net script in external js file

Question

How can I use server-side script in an external js file to grab a reference to a dom element?

The following works as intended when used as inline-script, but is returning null when I move this to an external js file.

$("#<%= gridResults.ClientID %>");

Answer 1

You'll need to have an inline script block that creates a JavaScript variable. This block should be added before your external JavaScript file. Once you do this, you can reference that variable in your external JavaScript file.

<script type="text/javascript">
    var grid = $("#<%= gridResults.ClientID %>");
</script>

<script type="text/javascript" src="path/to/my.js"></script>

Answer 2

If you but a unique class on the grid using the CssClass property, you should be able to access the grid without having to know what it's clientID is.