Overview

This chapter describes data handler components. Data handler components allow QuickTime to retrieve time-based data from external storage devices and, in some cases, store time-based data on those devices.

In most cases, you do not need to create a data handler or use one directly, because QuickTime takes care of data storage and retrieval for you through its built-in media handlers. However, you may need to create a data handler component to read or write to a non-Macintosh storage medium.

Data handler components rely on the facilities of the Component Manager. In order to create or use any component, your application must also use the Component Manager. If you are not familiar with the Component Manager, see Chapter 6 of Inside Macintosh: More Macintosh Toolbox. In addition, you should be familiar with Chapter 1, "Movie Toolbox" in this Reference guide and in Inside Macintosh: QuickTime .