Intro to COM DLL

Question

Before you tell me "google it" - hear me out. I come from C++ & Perl/Python (on Linux) background but I have a few projects coming up where I have to jump in to Windows development. Specifically creating some COM DLLs (not .Net). BTW, after reading some resources, I do have basic idea of what COM & what DLL is.

I tried to search on Google, but most of the tutorials I encountered assumed some Windows dev experience or at least that is how it seemed to me. So, I was wondering if some one went through a similar path & could probably point in a direction that'd help me get jump started on developing COM DLLs. I have access to VS2005. Thanks.

Answer 1

The "no .NET" requirement forces you to write code in unmanaged C++. COM has a pretty steep learning curve, flattened somewhat by using ATL. At least will will help you get the basics right. VS2005 has built-in class wizards to generate the boilerplate code you'll need and keep you code and the IDL in sync. You'll need a good COM book (hard to find) and Chris Sells' ATL Internals.

Answer 2

When programming in VS try Create a COM Visible Component