Introduction

This Class Libraries Reference covers the two class libraries that are included with MicrosoftÒ C/C++. The book is divided into three parts:

Part 1 contains overview material for the WindowsÔ and general-purpose classes in the Microsoft Foundation Class Library followed by an alphabetical listing of all global functions and macros. In addition, it contains reference chapters for Microsoft Foundation Class Library diagnostic services and exception processing. The last two chapters consist of a Windows message map cross-reference and a listing of structures and enumerated values for Windows.

Parts 2 and 3 both begin with class hierarchy diagrams for their respective libraries. These hierarchy diagrams, together with the subset diagrams included with each Foundation class, are useful for locating base classes. Be aware that the class documentation does not include repeated descriptions of inherited member functions, inherited operators, and overridden virtual member functions. You must always refer to the base classes depicted in the hierarchy diagrams.

Parts 2 and 3 list classes in alphabetical order. Each class description includes a member summary by category followed by alphabetical listings of:

Member functions (public, protected, and private intermixed)

Overloaded operators

Data members

Manipulators (iostream classes only)

Public and protected class members are documented only when they are normally used in application programs or derived classes. Occasionally, private members are listed because they override a public or protected member in the base class. See the class header files for a complete listing of class members.

In Part 2, please note that the “See Also” sections refer to Windows functions by prefacing them with the scope resolution operator (::). For example, ::EqualRect. More information on these functions can be found in the Windows Programmer's Reference, other Windows references, and Help.

Note:

The term “DOS” refers to both the MS-DOSÒ and IBM Personal Computer DOS operating systems. The name of a specific operating system is used when it is necessary to note features that are unique to that system.