Visual C++ for Windows CE FAQ

Microsoft Corporation

What is Visual C++ for Windows CE?

Microsoft® Visual C++® for Windows® CE is an add-on to Visual C++ version 5.0. With Visual C++ for Windows CE, developers using Win32® will be able to create applications easily for Windows CE-based devices. Visual C++ for Windows CE is fully integrated into the Visual Studio™ development system IDE, taking advantage of the industry- leading compiler technology in Visual C++ 5.0 and providing remote versions of key Win32-based tools (Debugger, Spy, Zoomin, Registry Editor, MemView). Visual C++ for Windows CE also supports Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC), including AppWizard and ClassWizard. In addition, Visual C++ for Windows CE provides new tools and technology specifically for Windows CE-based development: cross-compilers for MIPS and SH3 CPUs, the Remote Connection Server, and the Remote Object Viewer.

How can I obtain Visual C++ for Windows CE?

Visual C++ for Windows CE is available directly from Microsoft, priced at $199 (U.S.), $279 (Canadian), plus shipping and handling. To order in the United States or Canada, please call (800) 424-9688. For international availability, visit the Windows CE developer World Wide Web site at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsce/developer.

What do I need to acquire to begin development for Windows CE using Visual C++ for Windows CE?

Visual C++ for Windows CE is an add-on to Visual C++ 5.0. Therefore, you will also need Visual C++ 5.0, Professional or Enterprise editions, to use Visual C++ for Windows CE. If you don't currently have Visual C++ 5.0, you can obtain it when you acquire Visual C++ for Windows CE. Note that the Windows CE SDK and DDK are included as part of Visual C++ for Windows CE; nothing additional is required.

I am a developer who does not reside in the United States or Canada. How can I acquire Visual C++ for Windows CE?

Visual C++ for Windows CE is available directly in Europe by calling 00-353-1-708-8690. For other international availability, visit the Windows CE developer World Wide Web site at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsce/developer.

Can I get upgrade pricing for Visual C++ for Windows CE if I already have Visual C++ 5.0?

Because Visual C++ for Windows CE is in its initial release, upgrade pricing is not available. With Visual C++ 5.0—which is required to use Visual C++ for Windows CE—separate upgrade pricing from Visual C++ did not make sense.

Are all MFC classes supported by Visual C++ for Windows CE? What MFC classes are not supported by Visual C++ for Windows CE?

Not all MFC classes are supported in MFC for Windows CE. Nonsupported classes are classes that match one of the following patterns below:

How does Visual C++ for Windows CE produce high-quality code on each native platform?

Visual C++ for Windows CE provides a set of compiler optimizations designed to take advantage of the specific hardware platforms supported by the Windows CE operating system, for example, SH3 and MIPS. (Note that x86 is currently supported only for emulation because no x86 devices are shipping.)

What are the system requirements for Visual C++ for Windows CE?

Visual C++ for Windows CE requires the following:

A Windows CE-based H/PC is required for remote development on the Handheld PC device.

What kind of hardware do I need to develop applications for Windows CE using Visual C++ for Windows CE?

Visual C++ for Windows CE has a very minimal requirement for additional hardware. Developers can actually accomplish the majority of their development on their PC using emulation-running applications created using the x86 Windows CE compiler. In addition, developing on Handheld PCs requires no additional hardware because Visual C++ for Windows CE uses the serial port on the Handheld PC for application downloading, debugging, and running remote tools on the Handheld PC.