is there a huge difference between the languages visual c++ and visual basic? if so what are they? GIMPS

There are several differences from C++ and VB. VB is definitely easier to learn and maintain. The differences are too numerous to list here... but I am sure this question is going to start a VB flame of some sort and end this thread with 20+ replies. "Generally most simple applications use VB as it is easy to learn, follow, and develop. However if you want a professional application that runs quickly and is true OO then C++ is the choice. " For the most part, I use VB for creating GUIs to my C++ programs. I also use VB for most of my client-server, windows-based programming. IR

IR, I beg to differ. VB6 is not easier to maintain, in fact it is often harder, because it lacks real object-oriented design. I work in a large comapany where I have been handed several projects that were started in VB6, they are all damn hard to debug and maintain because of all the weird stuff (non-standard) vb6 lets you do. I would much rather have to debug/discover a C++ program any day. I use C# alot now and like it because it gives you the quick development like VB but more managable code (like C++) Still, if I want to make a windows application and not have to rely on managed code (such as .NET) and want to use a RAD like vb and .net have, I use Borland C++ Builder. It allows you to create forms like you do in VB, use Active X controls by dropping them on your form, yet it is organizable because it is true oop and c++. That's my 2.5 cents, Chi

CH, I suppose the concept of maintenance is probably relative to the employer and at the programmer's discretion. Where there are no standards in place, and no comments included... the code is bound to be a beast to maintain. Speaking of C#, have you came across any tutorials for C# that may be beneficial? I was starting on it a while back, but dropped it when I had to start coding in ADA for a project I was working on. IR

we purchased 3 tomes: Microsoft Visual C# .NET Language Reference Microsoft Applied .NET Framework Programming The Complete Visual C# Programmer's Guide they all have good info, but mostly i have had to learn on my own, since non of them cover the kinds of stuff we are doing (like socket programming...which I have gotten pretty good at now) If you need any help, don't hesitate to ask me. I don't have as much time as I used to to check out the forums, but you can email me. Chi

Thanks Chi. I'm going to try and pick back up on C# next week. IR