Borland C++ includes the new Object Component Framework (OCF) which gives programmers the easiest and most flexible way to create OLE 2.0 applications. OCF also allows programmers the easiest way to upgrade applications to OLE 2.0. Borland C++ also includes support for VBX controls in 32-bit programs and a new compiler which reduces compile by as much as 50 percent. Borland C++ also includes a new OpenHelp facility that lets developers configure the help files they use into a single virtual file. Dynatext Online Manuals have also been added to Borland C++ and customers will be entitled to receive two free future updates to the product.
Why choose Borland C++ 4.5?
With the new OLE 2.0 features and full support for 16- and 32-bit development, Borland C++ 4.5 is the best choice for programmers who need a full-featured development system for both 16- and 32-bit programming. Special care has been taken to ensure that developers can be ready for new platforms and technologies, without sacrificing support for existing platforms such as DOS and Windows.
Why choose Borland C++ 4.5 instead of Microsoft Visual C++ 2.0?
Borland C++ 4.5 provides compatible support for both 16- and 32-bit development environment. Visual C++ 2.0 only provides support for 32-bit development. Borland C++ also permits 32-bit applications to use standard 16-bit VBX controls. Borland C++ also contains the new Object Components Framework, which makes it easier to develop OLE 2.0 applications.
I need 16-bit support. Others have dropped it. Have you?
No. Borland is committed to providing products for 16-bit development. Many customers, especially corporate sites, still develop for 16-bit platforms. With Borland C++ 4.5, customers can fully develop on and for both 16- and 32-bit platforms, including DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows NT, and Windows 95 using full C and C++ and from a single, consistent Integrated Development Environment.
What is OCF?
OCF stands for Object Components Framework. OCF is a C++ class library which allows software developers to more easily take advantage of OLE 2.0 functionality. OCF works in conjunction with popular application frameworks, including OWL 2.0, and supports a full range of OLE capabilities. Since OCF works with the existing code base, programmers can take their legacy applications and add OLE 2.0 functionality. This saves time in the development process. Since OCF uses Windows messages that correspond with OLE events, programmers do not have to learn about OLE interfaces and can more easily work in the OLE environment.
What is the new automation support?
Automation support in OCF permits C++ classes to be automated without structural changes to the classes themselves. Instead of having to redesign applications to use Component Object Model interfaces, OCF lets programs process automation requests via the standard Windows event mechanism. Automation support enables programmers to automate any C++ class without any major changes to the source code. Automation support provides full localization support.
Does Borland C++ 4.5 provide support for OLE (OCX) custom controls?
No, we do not currently support custom controls in this release. We do support the use of VBX controls in 32-bit programs, which enables developers to get to 32-bit platforms faster. We will support OLE custom controls in a future release.
How is OLE implementation different in Borland C++ 4.5 that Microsoft Visual C++ 2.0?
Microsoft added OLE support to their AppWizard program generator.
This support is only available to applications that use MFC and can only be used when generating new programs. They provide no solution for developers who need to add OLE to existing code.
Borland's solution is far more flexible. OCF can be used with plain C++ code that uses the Windows SDK. It can be used even more easily with OWL 2.0 programs, whether or not they were generated with Borland's AppExpert. Programs that were generated with AppExpert can be made OLE-aware using the visual ClassExpert tool. (This includes programs generated with Borland C++ 4.0.) New OLE-capable applications can be generated with AppExpert.
Does Borland C++ support 32-bit OLE?
Borland C++ 4.5 will include a pre-release version of 32-bit OLE support. Registered customers of Borland C++ 4.5 will be entitled to receive a forthcoming update for 32-bit OLE, free of charge.
What is VBX32?
VBX32 permits standard 16-bit VBX controls to be used without modification within 32-bit applications. This feature is unique to Borland C++. With the new VBX32, programmers can develop 16-bit applications and seamlessly transition them to run on today's platforms (Windows 3.1 and Windows NT) and future platforms (Windows 95). With VBX32, programmers can now use the many VBX controls available today in a 32-bit applications.
What is OpenHelp?
OpenHelp is a new facility that lets developers configure the help files they use into a single virtual file. This makes it easy to find help across all of the libraries and tools that developers use.
Does Borland C++ 4.5 include a new version of ObjectWindows Library (OWL)?
Yes. The primary changes involve new classes that mix in OCF classes to add OLE capabilities to OWL. For example, there is a TOLEWindow class that adds OLE to the Twindow class. Existing OWL applications are fully compatible.
How will ObjectWindows evolve?
ObjectWindows has been updated in Borland C++ 4.5 to take advantage of object component framework (OCF). This makes ObjectWindows premiere environment for OLE 2.0 applications. ObjectWindows will continue to evolve to support the newest features of the Windows operating system. ObjectWindows will shortly be available for OS/2.
Will Borland be supporting the Microsoft Foundation Class (MFC)?
The Borland C++ compiler supports MFC. We are exploring ways to make more of Borland C++'s advanced features available to MFC users.
Does Borland C++ 4.5 have support for templates and C++ exception handling?
Yes.
Does Borland C++ 4.5 support Runtime Type Information?
Yes. In DOS, 16- and 32-bit Windows.
Is Borland C++ 4.5 faster than previous versions?
Yes. Borland C++ includes a new high performance optimizer and code generator which allows developers to build 32-bit applications faster and easier. A new 32-bit back end increases programmer productivity since it reduces compiler times up to 50 percent. Borland C++ also includes improvements to the 16-bit linker that can speed up 16-bit DOS and Windows applications.
When will Borland C++ 4.5 ship?
Borland C++ 4.5 will ship by the beginning of December 1994.
How much does Borland C++ 4.5 cost? What is the upgrade price?
The suggested retail price of Borland C++ 4.5 is $499.00. Registered users of any of Borland's C++ products can upgrade for the preferential price of $149.95. Owners of Turbo C++ can upgrade for $199.95. Microsoft, Symantec and Watcom C and C++ customers can upgrade for $199.95. The product is available on CD-ROM. This price includes two free updates for US customers. International pricing and policies will vary.
Is there any extra software included in Borland C++?
Yes. Dashboard and Visio OLE Test Bed.
What is Dashboard?
Dashboard is a desktop manager that gives users multiple virtual screens, resource memory and disk space monitoring, and quick launch and configuration features.
What is Visio OLE Test Bed?
Visio is a premiere drawing package for business graphics that offers superior OLE capability. The Visio OLE Test Bed is a customized version of this application that allows Windows developers to test their OLE programs.
Can I get Borland C++ 4.5 available on CD-ROM?
Yes. The full product and online manuals are available on CD-ROM..
Can I get Borland C++ 4.5 on floppy disk? Do I need to pay extra for documentation?
Yes. Borland C++ is available on 3.5" diskettes. Online manuals are not available on the floppy disk version, so purchase of the Borland C++ printed documentation pack, available separately, is recommended. The price for documentation is US $49.95.
When will Borland announce International pricing and programs for Borland C++ 4.5?
Customers outside of the US may call their local Borland office for Borland C++ pricing and program information after November 7, 1994.
What telephone number can customers call to get more information about Borland C++ 4.5?
U.S. customers can call 800-233-2444 for more information.
Does the upgrade include support for OS/2?
No. Borland offers a separate product for OS/2 development.
What are the minimum system requirements?
Minimum System Requirements (command line tools only):
IBM 386-based or higher PC or 100% compatible PC-DOS (MS-DOS) 4.01 or later 100% compatible version Microsoft Windows 3.1 or later 100% compatible version 4 Mb of extended memory or higher 3.5 floppy drive (floppy disk available separately)
Hard disk
Recommended System Requirements (for use of all tools)
IBM 486-based or higher
PC-DOS (MS-DOS) 4.01 or later 100% compatible version
Microsoft Windows 3.1 or later 100% compatible version
8 Mb of extended memory or higher
CD-ROM drive
Hard disk
Hard Disk Requirements (may vary due to cluster size)
CD-ROM configuration (tools run from CD) 25Mb
DOS command line configuration 25Mb
16-bit Windows visual development configuration 75Mb
32-bit Windows visual development configuration 75Mb
