You are correct for almost every file-type. One exception is that of anything that the browser uses a plugin to render, like PDFs in most cases. Most users install Acrobat Reader which installs a plug-in in all browsers. Without the target attribute set, then the PDF loads in the existing window.
Common user behavior, having been used to Reader opening in the past, is to close the window, not hit the back button. Thus, getting out of the site completely before realizing they hit the wrong thing. ??
Without the ability to set the target attribute, we have no control over the site behavior required by our client.
Thanks again for all your assistance!
-Michael
