Loading Gif while datatable builds

Hi all,

i have a question:
Is there a way that some loading gif is showing while the .datatable runs?

I create first a html table with around 500 entries and 15 Columns, also whits asp .net help.

Then i run the .datatable when the windows is loaded:

$(window).load(function () {
var oTable = $('#OpenTaskTable').dataTable({
"bJQueryUI": true,
"oLanguage": {
"sSearch": "Search all columns:"
}
});
...
});

The creation of the datatable takes around 7 - 9 Seconds, for this time my browswer (IE 8) stops completely and dont allow me anything.

Is there some option or workaround to show a loading gif for this time?
Maybe it has also something to do with the fact, that i develop a visual webpart for SharePoint which is nothing more than a ascx file in aspx site.

Thanks for you help

Best Regards

Martin