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APPMAKER.ZIP
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1993-07-28
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AppMaker - v1.2
********** What it does:
AppMaker creates a skeleton for a Windows based application which is compatible with
Visual C++ and MFC 2.0. It allows you from constantly copying the source to Generic.exe each
time you want to put together a quick test program.
********** How much is it?
It's free (still and probably forever) !
********** Whats new?
The dialog box has been re-arranged. There is a Comments box that gives additional
information on the option which you are currently selecting. Click on the options with a mouse
and info on that item will be displayed. I'm sure AppMaker won't win any usability awards but it is
a step in the right direction.
A new option for DDV / DDX support has been added. I have had a few requests for this
so if you need it you now have it.
The CompuServe on-line description is somewhat clearer. I sort of goofed the first time
and now you probably have a better idea of what it is that you just downloaded.
********** Why not use AppWizard?
If you are creating a LARGE application like Excel or WinWord then AppWizard will get
you off to a good running start. SMALL applications are a different story. Small applications are
created frequently to try a new piece of code or to test a DLL. Sometimes all you want to do is
display some text and send a few messages to another window.
In times like this a full-blown application doesn't make sense. You don't want the
overhead and hassles of multiple source and header files along with a Document-View
architecture. All you want is a simple and functional Windows program.
********** Advantages of AppMaker:
1 - Your main window is a dialog box. This allows you to use AppStudio to design and
draw your main window much like Visual Basic does.
2 - You application will not fall short on functionality. Your application will have an icon,
menu, accelerators, etc.
3 - The windows dialog manager takes care of WM_PAINT (OnPaint) messages as well
as tabbing between the various controls. You don't have to deal with any of this.
4 - You still have 100% access to all of your development tools such as AppStudio and
ClassWizard to help code and build your application.
********** How do I start using it ?
The only file you need is AppMaker.exe. Run it and select a empty directory from the
Dir. list box. Enter name for your new application name in the edit box. The application name is
limited to 8 chars. and must not contain commas, periods or any other characters which can not
be used in a filename. Select the options you want and press the 'Create' button. A dialog box
will appear telling you that the application has been created and what to do next.
********** I want to know more details!
Several files (.CPP, .H, .DEF, .RC, .MAK, etc) will be created using the application name
as the base name of the files. Open the makefile (.MAK) from Visual Workbench or double click
on it using File Manager. You can compile the program immediately after opening the project.
You may also want to open and view the .CPP file for more information.
Although the application does nothing, it will display a empty dialog box. You can go into
AppStudio and edit the dialog box. You can add controls and message handlers for them. As
mentioned at the top of the .CPP file, you will have to perform a few simple steps when you use
ClassWizard for the first time on a new application.
********** CTL3D.H !!!!!
Many people have had questions regarding CTL3D.H. Most questions usually go
something like this: "I try to compile the program but I get an error saying that the compiler can't
find CTL3D.H".
I will try to explain this in hopes of making it clear to all. The first option is labeled '3D
Controls (CTL3D)'. The 'CTL3D' is a hint that you need CTL3D.H and CTL3D.LIB to compile and
link. This allows your application to have the 'high tech' 3D look (sort of like AppMaker). If you
DO NOT have Ctl3D.h and Ctl3d.lib then DO NOT select this option when running AppMaker. If
you have Ctl3d.h and Ctl3d.lib then you can select this option if you want the 3D look for your
application. (Appmaker expects to find these files in the same place as the rest of your .LIB and
.H files.)
I have not included Ctl3D.lib and Ctl3d.h. They are available online from the Microsoft
forums. If you want these files then download them since they will be current with
documentation, help files and all the other goodies.
********** In closing.....
I hope you find AppMaker useful and that these instructions adequate. If there is another
application out there (shareware or retail) with the name AppMaker, I apologize for accidentally
naming this program the same as yours. No harm is intended.
If you don't understand my instructions or how this works, drop me a line. I'd be glad to
talk to you about it. If you have any other questions/comments/suggestions then let me know. I
can be reached on CompuServe at 75730, 2257 or by voice at (315) 732-4542.
Final Note: AppMaker requires CTL3D.DLL to run. The latest version which I have is included
with this. Place CTL3D.DLL in your Windows\System directory if it isn't already there.
- Mark Szamrej -