Creating smooth background gradients?

How do I create smooth background gradients for web pages, like at www.gotapex.com?

Whenever I try to make a gradient (say grey to white) and post it on the web, my gradient screws up, with lots of white and even pink areas mixed in. I've tried saving in several formats and at various qualities, and nothing seems to work. You can see what I mean at

http://www.mvccc.org/newdesign/design2/english/

Anyone know how to fix this? Thanks in advance.

That gradient looks very smooth to me.

What are you running at video wise? I'm running 32 bit color, and that gradient is very smooth. No matter what you save at, if the viewer is running low color or something, it's gonna look like crap.

I didnt even see a gradient at that other site....but just addressing the last link you gave.

Same here. I'm viewing at 32-bit color also. Looks fine to me

Wow ok, you're right. I was in 16-bit color.

Just wondering then: are most people on 32-bit color? More to the point, should I have to worry about 16-bit color compatibility when working on graphics?

I figured you were, heh. (no offense).

Most graphic designers are running 32 bit color, and running large screen resolutions. The simple fact, some out there are still running 640 x 480 @ 256 colors. (sad, yes).

You're not going to please everyone. I output everything as it looks on my monitor @ 1024 x 768 at 32 bit color. If you're running less, I guess my stuff isn't gonna look as pretty. ;p But, the lower color depth, the worse things are going to look (such as gradients). If you can run 32 bit color on your monitor, I suggest running, and designing for such. Those who can't see it due to running lower resolutions and lower color depths are just out of luck, in my opinion.

I'd agree with MBB, with the caution that you need to be aware of your intended audience. If you're designing the new Amazone.com (did I just avoid copyright imfringement?), then you probably would be designing differently than if you were designing, ummmm, say.... a Photoshop community site!