| Microsoft DirectX 8.1 (Visual Basic) |
This section provides information about the Microsoft® DirectInput® component of the Microsoft® DirectX® application programming interface (API). The DirectInput API is used to process data from a keyboard, mouse, joystick, or other game controller.
Information about using DirectInput is presented in the following sections. Use this page to guide you through the documentation based on your level of experience as a DirectInput developer.
What's New in DirectInput. Summary of features new to this version of DirectX. Read this section if you have used DirectInput before but want to take advantage of the new capabilities.
Introduction to DirectInput. High-level overview of the capabilities of DirectInput and the steps you will take to implement it. Start with this section if you are new to DirectInput.
Understanding DirectInput. Introduction to the objects and classes of DirectInput and how they are related to the Microsoft Windows message system. Read this section if you are new to DirectInput.
Using DirectInput. Guide to the API. This section contains more detailed conceptual information than the previous two sections, as well as information about the API elements you will use for setting up devices, retrieving data, and implementing force-feedback effects. If you are a novice, at least familiarize yourself with the contents of this section. Later, you can refer to topics as you need them. Use this section in conjunction with the DirectInput Visual Basic Reference.
Programming Tips and Tools. Advanced programming topics and a guide to the DirectInput tools provided with the DirectX Software Development Kit (SDK).
DirectInput Visual Basic Tutorials. Step-by-step tutorials, often based on samples in the SDK. If you learn best from sample code, this is a good place to start after reading Introduction to DirectInput and Understanding DirectInput.
DirectInput Visual Basic Samples. A guide to the DirectInput Visual Basic samples included in the SDK, illustrating the use and capabilities of DirectInput.
DirectInput Visual Basic Reference. Reference information for the API. Use this section when you need to know the details of a class, method, type, macro, or other element.