Tip Bank

DevX - Software Development Resource

Load VBX/OCX/DLLs in the Windows System Directory

It’s best to load all shared (or public) VBXs, DLLs, and OCXs in theWindows system directory. Doing so prevents component conflicts betweenshared components that are loaded in the wrong places.

DevX - Software Development Resource

Find Lost Controls

If a control gets lost on your form, you can select it by choosingits name from the drop-down list at the top of the properties window. Setits Left and Top

DevX - Software Development Resource

Speed Up List Box Updates

When adding a large number of items to a list box, you can greatlyspeed up the process by disabling redraws of it. A quick call to SendMessagedoes the trick. Sandwich

DevX - Software Development Resource

Use the Right Tool for the Job

If you’re running into a roadblock in a particular section of yourprogram, step back and take another look at what you’re doing. There’sa good chance you’re using the wrong tool

DevX - Software Development Resource

Make a Gauge with MicroHelp’s Controls

You can make a beautiful gauge by combining two MicroHelp controls.Place a Mh3d control onto your form and set the inner bevel just insideof the outer bevel. Place a Mh3dCommand

DevX - Software Development Resource

Drawing Directly on the Form Saves Resources

You can drop labels and frames out of your application (and their accompanyingresource and memory usage) by writing a small routine to use Print andLine that draws directly onto your

DevX - Software Development Resource

Validating Text Entries When a DataCombo Loses Focus

When setting focus to another control, the DataCombo in Sheridan’sData Widgets can be forced to validate the text portion against its listby referencing the DataCombo’s IsItemInList property as follows: If

DevX - Software Development Resource

Use the Shortest Variables

Use the shortest data type you can for variables. If you’re going tobe counting in a loop from 1 to 10, for instance, use an Integer not aDouble.