Carbon Specification

Generated on: 7/20/98

Introduction

The Carbon specification is based on the Mac OS Universal Interfaces version 3.1, with additions such as the ANSI C and HyperCard XCommand interfaces. It also includes new managers and functions introduced in Allegro, such as Navigation Services and Apple Type Solution for Unicode Imaging. The specification lists the level of support Carbon will provide for each function in the Mac OS. Support levels are indicated as follows:

	The function is unchanged and fully supported.
	The function is supported, but you may need to change your code to use it. For example, the type or number of parameters may be different, or there may be restrictions on how the function can be used.
	The function is unchanged and fully supported in the first release of Mac OS X, but is not guaranteed to be supported in future releases. In most cases there is a newer API that you should use.
	We do not plan to support the function in Carbon. This is usually for one of two reasons: 1) the function or manager would be difficult or impossible to implement in a preemptive, memory protected environment; or 2) we have not identified sufficient developer need for the service provided by the function or manager. If you need to use it, tell us why.
	We are investigating the level of support Carbon will provide for this function. If you need to use it, tell us why.

We plan to provide complete documentation for all the functions Carbon supports, including those that are modified or not recommended. Initially we are concentrating on documenting the functions that are modified, since they have the greatest impact on your transition effort.

Send your comments about the Carbon specification to carbon@apple.com. Your feedback will help us make the transition to Mac OS X a success.

IMPORTANT
The Carbon specification is a work in progress. This web page will be updated periodically, so please check back frequently.

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