March 21 1997. Microsoft® Corporation has teamed with leading software component supplier, ComponentSource™, to develop a special CD-ROM pack providing software developers with the newest Microsoft ActiveX™ component gallery, including over 400 ActiveX controls, companion products and tools. This 4-CD pack has been developed to support the launch of Microsoft Visual Tools which will be formally announced at the Microsoft Developer Day (DevDay) events during March.

The ComponentSource CD pack provides the quickest, easiest, most convenient way to obtain component products for developers who need a telephone and credit card to buy and unlock ActiveX components instantly. Also in the CD pack is the latest Microsoft Visual Tools CD, containing information on the latest range of development tools, including Visual Basic®, Visual J++™, Visual C++™, Visual FoxPro™, as well as two new tools, Visual InterDev™and Visual Studio™.

"The Microsoft/ComponentSource pack offers an educational tool to enterprises and which demonstrates the benefits and reality of component-based programming," said Adrian Robinson,ComponentSource Managing Director. "The ability to try and instantly buy tools from the largest selection of dynamic and up-to-date ActiveX components offers a significant business advantage. The response to ComponentSource CDs in Europe has been phenomenal, a position we aim to expand across the globe."

Commented Andrew King, European Marketing Manager, Developer Division for Microsoft, "Together with MicrosoftÆs Visual tools, the extensive range of third party components now available through ComponentSource allows businesses to access state-of-the-art development technology. Professional, Corporate and Solution Developers can add powerful, dynamic and interactive functionality to their custom solutions utilising ActiveX technologies."

ComponentSource CDs are available to developers free of charge. To receive an introductory welcome pack and regular CD updates, developers should register at: http://www.componentsource.com or call the companyÆs express registration service on:+44 (0) 118 958 1111.

ComponentSource specialises in the supply of software components, companion products and add-ons to global enterprise and software businesses. It is the first company to offer component vendors secure encryption of their full retail products on a freely distributed CD-ROM aimed specifically at component users. ComponentSource CDs are distributed with all new and upgrade sales of Microsoft Visual Basic (English international edition), and to the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) in Europe.