Microsoft Windows Developer Information February 3, 1994 [ Contents ]------------------------------------------------------------------ Introduction Microsoft Support Network Microsoft Developer Network Microsoft TechNet Microsoft Developer Solutions Team Microsoft Windows Logo Program Microsoft Compatibility Labs Microsoft Beta Test Programs Microsoft Press Microsoft Systems Journal Microsoft Consulting Services Microsoft Certified Professional Program Microsoft Education Services Microsoft Third-Party Catalogs Microsoft Conferences Microsoft DevCast Microsoft Aliases The Windows Shopper's Guide CompuServe Forums Usenet Forums Internet Forums [ Introduction ]-------------------------------------------------------------- This document lists many of the resources available to software and hardware developers for the Microsoft(R) Windows(TM) and Windows NT(TM) operating systems. Some are official Microsoft resources, others are peer-to-peer resources. The latest revision of this document is available at: FTP.Microsoft.COM:/drg/Developer-Info/devinfo.zip (Internet ftp server) devinf.zip (CompuServe(R) MSWin32 and WinSDK forums, library 1) [ Microsoft Support Network ]------------------------------------------------- Microsoft(R) Support Network is the product support mechanism for users and developers. There are three main options available, Standard, Priority, and Premier. Various electronic and phone services are available. Here are the options available for technical support in the U.S. and Canada. Most Microsoft offices in other countries have similar programs, contact your regional office for more information. FastTips Microsoft FastTips is a service of the Microsoft Support Network in the U.S. and Canada. It provides a toll-free, 24-hours-a-day access to automated information about key Microsoft products. You can access common questions and answers as well as technical articles via voice, fax, and U.S. Mail. To access Microsoft FastTips call: Desktop Applications: (800) 936-4100 Personal Operating Systems: (800) 936-4200 Development Products: (800) 936-4300 Advanced Systems: (800) 936-4400 Electronic Information Services Microsoft Support Network provides customers with 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week access to Microsoft's wide range of no-cost and low-cost Electronic Information Services options. KnowledgeBase The Microsoft KnowledgeBase (KB) is a database of more than 25,000 detailed articles with technical information on Microsoft products, bug lists, fix lists, and more. This database is accessible via Microsoft OnLine, CompuServe, and the Internet. CompuServe Forums Facilitated by Microsoft, a variety of forums provide an interactive dialog with a worldwide community of Microsoft customers. Exchange information with your peer and Microsoft support engineers, and access the Microsoft KnowledgeBase. No support charge; CompuServe connect charges apply (GO MSDS). Internet FTP Server The Microsoft FTP server, FTP.Microsoft.COM (198.105.232.1) is a server using the TCP/IP protocol, allowing anonymous FTP login. The server provides access to the Microsoft Driver Library and the Microsoft KnowledgeBase. For Windows(TM)-based machines on the Internet, in addition to using FTP client software, you can use the File Manager (or NET USE on a command line) to access the server, using the UNC name of \\gowinnt\ftp (after adding a line in the %SystemRoot%\system32\drivers\etc\LMHOSTS file associating the GOWINNT name to its TCP/IP address: for example: 198.105.232.1 gowinnt # gowinnt.microsoft.com Download Service The Microsoft Download Service (MSDL) is a computer bulletin board system (BBS), which provides access to the Microsoft Electronic Technical Library, containing sample programs, device drivers, patches, software updates and programming aids. Modem users can connect to this service by calling: (206) 936.6735 (modem) Standard Support This option provides individual telephone numbers for most products, giving you fast access to a specialized Microsoft support engineer. You receive this level of support Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., PST. You can find the support number for your product in the product's User's Guide, in on-line Help and via Microsoft FastTips. For more information on FastTips, see the "Microsoft Support Network's FastTips" section elsewhere in this document. Priority Support This option provides developers with access to Microsoft support engineers 24 hours a day, every day of the week (excluding holidays). Priority Support assures you priority access to our support engineers, around-the-clock, across all product clusters. An annual subscription to Microsoft Priority Support is a convenient way to ensure a full year's worth of unlimited support. If, however, you need technical support only occasionally, we have three convenient levels of access for you. Pricing is based on the level you choose. For more information on Priority Support, call (800) 936-3500. Priority Support is the option recommended for developers for Windows. Premier Support This option provides Microsoft's highest level of technical support, providing developers with a one-on-one contact for support, designed to provide personalized, comprehensive support for mission critical and development/OEM adaptation environments. Premier Support has two levels of service, pricing is based on the level you choose. For more information on Premier Support, call (800) 936-3500. [ Microsoft Developer Network ]----------------------------------------------- The Microsoft Developer Network is the official source of toolkits (SDKs and DDKs), operating systems, and programming information on developing applications for Microsoft Windows and Windows NT. Developer Network Level 1 membership includes the Development Library, a quarterly CD, which contains all the technical information you need to program for Windows. Developer Network Level 2 membership includes all Level 1 benefits plus the Development Platform, which delivers CD-ROMs containing the latest in Microsoft's operating systems and all Windows-based development-related SDKs and DDKs - both domestic and international versions. All members receive the bimonthly Developer Network News, which publishes up- to-the-minute information about Microsoft's systems strategy, development products, and services. Depending on your development needs, you can join at one of two levels of Developer Network membership. The Level 1 annual membership includes: 4 quarterly updates to the Development Library, 6 bimonthly issues of the Developer Network News, a 20% discount on Microsoft Press(R) books, and invitations to Developer Network special events at shows. The Level 2 annual membership includes all Level 1 benefits plus at least 4 quarterly updates to the Development Platform. For more information about the Developer Network or to become a member, please call: (800) 759-5474 (U.S. and Canada) (402) 691-0173 (outside U.S. and Canada) The current content listings for the Development Library and the Development Platform are available via ftp: FTP.Microsoft.COM:/msdn/proginfo/libctnt.txt FTP.Microsoft.COM:/msdn/proginfo/platctnt.txt [ Microsoft TechNet ]--------------------------------------------------------- Microsoft TechNet is an annual CD-ROM-based information service created for those who support or educate end users, administer networks or databases, create automated solutions, and recommend or evaluate information technology solutions. The monthly CD provided with TechNet contains complete product Resource Kits (Windows NT(TM), Windows(TM) for Workgroups, Windows, MS-DOS(R), etc.), training materials, customer solutions, conference session notes from key Microsoft conferences, the Microsoft KnowledgeBase, and other technical and strategic information. New to the TechNet service is the quarterly Microsoft Drivers and Patches CD. This disc includes drivers (over 900 in the initial release) and Windows NT patches. Future CDs will include the MS-DOS operating system 6.2 Step-Up, LAN Manager patches, and the Microsoft Networking Client Kit. Also included with membership is the Microsoft Services Directory, in both printed and on-line versions, which provide information on all Microsoft services, including a detailed listing of more than 3,500 Microsoft Solution Providers. For more information or to join Microsoft TechNet, call: (800) 344-2121 extension 3003 (U.S. and Canada) (402) 691-0173 (other countries) [ Microsoft Developer Solutions Team ]---------------------------------------- The Microsoft Developer Solutions Team (DST) provides pre-sales information on all Microsoft development products, platforms, programs, and services. You can request literature, white papers and specifications on many development products. DST can help you choose the right Microsoft developer products and programs will work best for your specific needs. To contact DST, call: (800) 426-9400 (Mon. - Fri., 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. PST) Microsoft PhoneFax Microsoft PhoneFax is a service offered by Microsoft Developer Solutions Team which contains white papers, technical overviews, and other documents. These documents are retrieved by using a phone menu, which sends the data to you via your fax. To access the DST PhoneFax Server, call: (206) 635-2222 [ Microsoft Windows Logo Program ]-------------------------------------------- The Windows Compatible Logo denotes your product's compatibility with Microsoft Windows. In addition, licensing the Windows Compatible Logo indicates that your product has been developed specifically to take advantage of the Windows operating system. For software products to qualify, they must be written to the Windows API, include a Windows-based automated installation program, be tested on Windows, Windows for Workgroups, and Windows NT operating systems, and pass the Windows Compatibility Survey. To request a kit to apply to license this Logo, fax your company name and address to: (206) 936-7329 (Attn: Windows Logo Department) For hardware products to qualify, they must require a Windows driver, include a Windows-based automated installation, and pass testing by the Microsoft Compatibility Labs (MCL). For more information on MCL, see the next section. [ Microsoft Compatibility Labs ]---------------------------------------------- Microsoft Compatibility Labs (MCL) provides fee-based compatibility testing services for device and device driver developers. MCL testing is extensive and comprehensive in each category for which testing is offered. As a result, customers are assured a very high level of compatibility between tested devices and Microsoft operating systems. When your device is certified by MCL, you receive a number of marketing opportunities including the "Microsoft Windows Compatible" logo for use in brochures, ads, and product packaging. For information on the certification program for your device category, contact MCL by: telephone: (206) 635-4949 (8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. PST) fax: (206) 936-7329 (Attn: MCL, Bldg. 20) email: MCLInfo@Microsoft.COM (Internet) [ Microsoft Beta Test Programs ]---------------------------------------------- Many Microsoft products have external beta programs. To be a beta tester for a Microsoft product, send a letter with the following information: 1) Hardware Configuration: A complete hardware description of the computing environment you will be using, including: computer, monitor, graphics card, memory cards, add-on cards, and any peripheral devices (printers, plotters, modems, CD-ROMs, etc.). 2) Software Configuration: A complete software description of the operating system environment you will be using, including: operating systems all relevant drivers and applications. 3) Reasons you want to be a beta tester: Including any experience you have using the product and previous experience doing beta testing. Write this letter on your company letterhead, and send it to: Microsoft Corporation Attn: Beta Test Coordinator One Microsoft Way Redmond, WA 98053-6399 USA [ Microsoft Press ]----------------------------------------------------------- Microsoft Press is the publisher of a broad range of programming books covering Microsoft and third-party products. Microsoft Press books are available through bookstores or directly from Microsoft Press. To place an order or to request a catalog of current offerings, call: (800) MS-PRESS (U.S. and Canada, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CST) (615) 793-5090 (other countries) [ Microsoft Systems Journal ]------------------------------------------------- Microsoft Systems Journal (MSJ) is a monthly publication that covers many topics of interest to developers who use MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, Windows NT, and languages such as C, C++ and Visual Basic. For subscription information, call: (800) 666-1084 (U.S. and Canada, 24 hours a day) (303) 447-9330 (other countries) [ Microsoft Consulting Services ]--------------------------------------------- Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS) has helped hundreds of organizations worldwide build information technology solutions. MCS provides services that enable both end-user organizations and third-party software developers to design and build client-server applications that leverage Microsoft technology to the greatest extent possible. MCS consultants are systems architects with experience and expertise in Microsoft technology, methodologies, and tools. Their charter is to help organizations capitalize on the benefits of client/server computing. MCS consultants focus primarily on transferring their knowledge and skills to corporations, government organizations, and solution providers worldwide. Though its commitment to capabilities transfer, MCS enables developers to best meet information technology challenges and, in turn, to achieve maximum results from the enterprise solutions on the Microsoft Solutions Platform. Outside the U.S. and Canada, contact your local Microsoft subsidiary; for the U.S. and Canada, call: (800) 922-9446 (U.S.) (800) 563-9048 (Canada) (800) 892-5234 (TT/TDD, U.S.) (905) 568-9641 (TT/TDD, Canada) [ Microsoft Certified Professional Program ]---------------------------------- The Microsoft Certified Professional Program qualifies technical professionals skilled in implementing and supporting solutions with Microsoft products, as demonstrated by their performance on Microsoft certification exams. It helps individuals assess and promote their skills and provides a benchmark for organizations to use when hiring technical staff, determining training needs or outsourcing technical services. For more information about becoming a Microsoft Certified Professional, call: (800) 426-9400 (U.S.) (905) 568-0434 (Canada) [ Microsoft Education Services ]---------------------------------------------- Microsoft Education Services develops technical training courses, and trains and certifies instructors for Microsoft Solution Provider Authorized Training Centers. These courses enable students to gain the skills needed to make technology decisions, and to build, implement and support solutions which take full advantage of Microsoft technology. Self-study includes video, CBT and print-based materials. The print-based materials are the same materials received at an instructor-led course of the same title as well as a student guide that takes them through the course manually. These courses are available in instructor-led and self-study formats from Microsoft Solution Provider Authorized Training Centers (SP-ATC's) around the world. Microsoft Education Services courseware is geared toward three target audiences. The Information Systems Manager Curriculum includes a series of high-level management seminars and video briefings that help information systems managers gain a clear understanding of the new and complex world of client-server computing and learn proven strategies for its successful implementation. The Developer Curriculum provides in-depth, hands-on technical training that provides the skills needed to build real-world applications for Microsoft Windows and Microsoft SQL Server using a variety of Microsoft products. The Systems Support Professional Curriculum provides in-depth, hands-on technical training that addresses real-world multivendor issues, and emphasizes the latest Microsoft products. Microsoft Solution Provider Authorized Training Centers are trained and certified by Microsoft to deliver Microsoft Education Services developed courseware to computer professionals. Microsoft Education Services replaces Microsoft University with a new charter. By focusing on Microsoft's ability to create the best possible technical education and training courses, and by leaving the delivery of those courses to Microsoft-authorized third parties, Microsoft Education Services expands the reach and accessibility of Microsoft training programs. Courses are available with programming for topics such as: Win32, Win16, Visual C++(TM) development system (MFC), Visual Basic programming system, Microsoft Access, FoxPro, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word. Courses are available for support and administrative topics such as: MS-DOS, Windows, Windows for Workgroups, LAN Manager, SQL Server, Windows NT, and Windows NT(TM) Advanced Server. A complete listing and description of our courses is available. For more information about Microsoft Education Services courses, or a referral to a Microsoft Solution Provider Authorized Training Center, call: (800) 426-9400 (U.S.) (905) 568-0434 (Canada) (206) 936-8661 (other countries) [ Microsoft Third-Party Catalogs ]-------------------------------------------- Microsoft Win32 Applications Catalog The Microsoft Win32 Catalog for Windows NT showcases Win32-based applications. The current issue, November 1993, contains over 200 products. The catalog is available in electronic form on both CompuServe on the Microsoft Windows NT forum (GO WINNT) and on the Microsoft Internet anonymous FTP server FTP.Microsoft.COM, see /drg/README for details. If you are a developer of applications for the Microsoft Windows NT operating system and you would like to receive information concerning participation in future editions of this catalog, write to: Win32 Applications Catalog c/o Microsoft Corporation Systems Marketing, building 6 One Microsoft Way Redmond, WA 98053-6399 USA Email: Win32Cat@Microsoft.COM Microsoft OLE 2.0 Applications Catalog The Object Linking and Embedding 2.0 Catalog showcases OLE 2.0 applications. The current issue, Fall 1993, contains over 100 products. If you are a developer of applications for the Microsoft Windows or Windows NT operating system and you would like to receive information concerning participation in future editions of the Windows Objects: OLE 2.0 Applications Catalog, write to: OLE 2.0 Catalog c/o Microsoft Corporation Systems Marketing, building 6 One Microsoft Way Redmond, WA 98053-6399 USA Email: OLE2Cat@Microsoft.COM Microsoft Plug and Play Hardware Catalog The Plug and Play Hardware Catalog showcases hardware that conforms to the emerging Plug and Play specifications, to be used with Microsoft Windows operating system platforms, initially Microsoft Windows "Chicago" and Microsoft Windows NT "Cairo". Entries are being accepted for the initial issue. If you would like your company to be showcased in this catalog please send company information as well as a description of your Plug and Play products to: Plug and Play Catalog c/o Microsoft Corporation Hardware Vendor Relations Group, building 6 One Microsoft Way Redmond, WA 98053-6399 USA Email: PlayList@Microsoft.COM Multimedium! (The Windows Resource for Multimedia) Multimedium! is a periodical which showcases Windows-based multimedia products. Entries are being accepted for the next issue. Free or expanded listings are available. If you would like your company to be showcased in this catalog please send company information as well as a description of your multimedia product to: Affinity Publishing Inc. Attn: Jane Jennings, account executive 190 Queen Anne AVE, STE 220 Seattle, WA 90109 USA Telephone: (206) 281-0089 Fax: (206) 281-1799 [ Microsoft Conferences ]----------------------------------------------------- Microsoft is involved in many conferences. Listed here are some which are of particular interest to Windows ISVs and IHVs. Win32 Professional Developers Conference The Win32 Professional Developers Conference (PDC) is targeted for Win32 ISVs for all Microsoft Windows operating systems, often also for IHVs of these same operating systems. The last PDC was held December 1993 in Anaheim, California. Date, location, and registration information is not yet available for the next PDC. Windows Hardware Engineering Conference The Microsoft Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) is a conference for the Windows-based hardware industry, targeted to OEMs and IHVs to learn the direction that Windows is heading, and how to take advantage of this in your hardware. The last WinHEC was held March 1993 in San Jose, California, as well as also being offered in September 1993 in both Taipei, Taiwan and Tokyo, Japan. WinHEC '94 will occur February 23-25 1994 in San Francisco California. For registration information, see an ASCII text version of the conference brochure mailing on FTP.Microsoft.COM:/drg/Conferences/WinHEC.txt, or for more information, call: (800) 421-6338 (U.S. and Canada, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. PST) (415) 543-5847 (other countries, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. PST) Tech*Ed Tech*Ed is an annual conference which provides technical information on Microsoft products used to develop, integrate, or support Windows-based solutions. The target audience for this conference is integrators, developers, support professionals and technical managers. Tech*Ed provides hundreds of "how-to" technical sessions on Windows, Windows NT, Microsoft Excel, Windows "Chicago", Word, Visual Basic, Visual Basic for Applications, Microsoft Access, FoxPro, SQL Server, Microsoft At Work(TM), Solutions Framework, Visual C++, Project, Pen, Multimedia, SNA Server, OLE, MAPI, Windows for Workgroups and Mail. The last Tech*Ed was held April 1993 in Orlando, Florida. Tech*Ed '94 will occur March 28-31 1994 in New Orleans, Louisiana. For registration information, see an ASCII text version of the conference brochure mailing on FTP.Microsoft.COM:/drg/Conferences/TechEd.zip, or for more information, call: (800) 433-9996 (U.S. or Canada) (303) 743-9554 (other countries, 5:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. PST) [ Microsoft DevCast ]--------------------------------------------------------- DevCast represents Microsoft's quarterly commitment to provide developers with the latest technical information. DevCast is free of charge (some sites charge for food) and demonstrates how to utilize emerging technologies from Microsoft, by identifying business problems and developing solutions for them. Demonstrations are given on how to rapidly develop applications designed for mission critical, line-of-business processes, with emphasis on enterprise data access. Additional technical discussions provide information on how to select the best technologies, development tools and application architectures. Full source code and an in-depth written discussion to the solution is made available to all attendees. Videotapes are also available. The next DevCast will be given March 30 1994, presented to a live audience from Tech*Ed '94 in New Orleans Louisiana. The technical focus is on Microsoft database products and technologies, covering products such as Microsoft Access, SQL Server for Windows NT, FoxPro, and Visual Basic. To register for DevCast, or for more information, call: (800) 423-8883 (U.S., 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. PST) (206) 635-6460 (other countries, 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. PST) [ Microsoft Aliases ]--------------------------------------------------------- This is a list of aliases at Microsoft which are accessible via Internet email (and gateways from other on-line systems) for use by software and hardware developers. These aliases are NOT a replacement for Microsoft Developer Support. Y-WinNTB@Microsoft.COM (Windows NT bug reporting) This is a method of reporting bugs against Windows NT operating system. In order to use this alias, fill out the bug reporting template, which is on the Internet via FTP.Microsoft.COM:/Advsys/winnt/bugrep.txt, which is also on the Windows NT CD in the \support\suptools subdirectory. Microsoft cannot reply to all email bug reports, but will review each one and may contact the submitter during the follow-up process. NTIdea@Microsoft.COM (Windows NT product suggestions) This alias is maintained by Corporate Network Systems (CNS). It is a means by which Microsoft customers can provide product suggestions on the features and functionality of Windows NT and Windows NT Advanced Server. VxDID@Microsoft.COM (VxD ID requests) This alias is for Windows 3.x IHVs who wish to request an ID for their VxD (Virtual Device Driver). This is an automated alias which responds to any request with a form that needs to be filled out and returned to Microsoft in order to receive the VxD ID. This alias is not appropriate for VxD technical support questions. PlayList@Microsoft.COM (Plug and Play announcement list) This alias is for IHVs wanting to be placed on a mailing list which will send out periodic information on updates to the Plug and Play specifications. As well, information regarding the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) will also be distributed via this mechanism. IHV@Microsoft.COM (IHV issues) This alias is for IHV issues on Microsoft overall systems strategy. Marketing opportunities, questions as to where Microsoft is going with hardware technologies are valid for this alias. 3D-IHV@Microsoft.COM (3D DDK issues) This alias is for display hardware vendors wanting information on 3D DDI (Device Driver Interface) on all Microsoft Windows platforms. DCI-IHV@Microsoft.COM (DCI issues) This alias is for display hardware vendors wanting information on the Microsoft and Intel(R) DCI specification, which tells how to enhance video under Windows 3.x and Video for Windows. MCLInfo@Microsoft.COM (MCL communications) This alias is maintained by the Microsoft Compatibility Labs (MCL), and is for use by IHVs wishing to communicate with MCL. For more information on MCL, see the "Microsoft Compatibility Labs" section elsewhere in this document. PortLab@Microsoft.COM (Porting Lab communications) This alias is maintained by the Microsoft Porting Lab staff. Requests for information about the lab should be submitted to this alias. DevNetWk@Microsoft.COM (Microsoft Developer Network) This alias is maintained by the Microsoft Developer Network group and is for non-technical communications. For more information on the Developer Network, see the "Microsoft Developer Network" section elsewhere in this document. Global@Microsoft.COM (Internationalization issues) This alias is for Windows ISV issues on Microsoft internationalization system strategy. Marketing opportunities, questions as to where Microsoft is going with internationalization, and requests for pointers to software resources (localization tools and localized versions of operating systems) are both appropriate for this alias. This alias makes available the Globalization Resource Kit. MAPI@Microsoft.COM (MAPI issues) This alias is for Windows ISV issues on MAPI system strategy. Marketing opportunities, questions as to where Microsoft is going with MAPI, and requests for toolkits are appropriate for this alias. Telephon@Microsoft.COM (TAPI issues) This alias is for Windows ISV issues on TAPI system strategy. Marketing opportunities, questions as to where Microsoft is going with TAPI, and requests for toolkits are appropriate for this alias. MMDInfo@Microsoft.COM (Multimedia issues) This alias is for Windows-based multimedia developer issues on multimedia system strategy. Marketing opportunities and questions as to where Microsoft is going with multimedia are appropriate for this alias. W32sBeta@Microsoft.COM (Win32s beta program) This alias is for ISVs interested in becoming involved in the Win32s(TM) beta program, and receiving a beta copy of Win32s v1.2, which supports OLE v2.01. NDIS@Microsoft.COM (WfW 3.11 WNDDK requests) This alias is for Windows for Workgroups 3.11 network IHVs interested in writing NDIS 3.0 MAC drivers. For registration purposes, all requests should include their name, mailing address, phone and fax numbers. For technical issues, contact Microsoft Developer Support staff via Microsoft Developer Network. WOSAXRT@Microsoft.COM (WOSA/XRT issues) This alias is for asking non-technical questions about WOSA/XRT and for making inquiries regarding the Open Market Data Council for Windows (OMDC). The OMDC is the Market Data Industry group responsible for defining WOSA/XRT. For technical issues regarding WOSA/XRT use the WOSA/XRT sections in the WINEXT forum on CompuServe. [ The Windows Shopper's Guide ]----------------------------------------------- The Windows Shopper's Guide is a catalog of over 1300 applications, development tools and hardware for Windows and Windows NT, published by WhiteFox Communications, Inc. To order a catalog or to request advertising information, contact WhiteFox Communications at: telephone: (503) 629-5612 (8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. PST) fax: (503) 645-8642 [ CompuServe Forums ]--------------------------------------------------------- This section discusses the forums and sections available on the CompuServe Information Service which are of interest to developers for Windows. Unlike the Internet and Usenet, Microsoft Developer Support monitors these peer-to-peer forums. CompuServe provides 24-hour, on-line access to the latest information about Microsoft developer products and services, as well as libraries of technical information. To view all of the Microsoft forums, type GO MICROSOFT at the CompuServe "!" prompt. For more information, call: (800) 524-3388 operator 230 (8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. EST) Developer Forums (GO MSDS) This area provides an interactive dialog with a worldwide community of Microsoft customers, facilitated by Microsoft. Developer Network Forum (GO MSDNLIB) This forum provides a collection of technical articles and sample code available for download. Developer KnowledgeBase (GO MDKB) This forum provides a full-text searchable database containing thousands of downloadable technical articles about Microsoft products, bug lists, fix lists, documentation errors and answers to commonly asked technical support questions. DevCast (GO DEVCAST) This forum provides information on the Microsoft DevCast. For more information on DevCast, see the "Microsoft DevCast" section elsewhere in this document. Tech*Ed (GO MSTECHED) This forum provides information on the Microsoft Tech*Ed conference. For more information on DevCast, see the "Microsoft Tech*Ed" section elsewhere in this document. Software Library (GO MSL) This forum provides a collection of binary files, sample code, device drivers, patches, technical specifications and utilities. TechNet (GO TNFORUM) This forum provides information on special TechNet events, connections to the TechNet community, and technical information from Microsoft TechNet for download. No Microsoft product support is available in this forum. Developer Relations (GO MSDR) This forum provides general and strategic information exchange, tips, and techniques for Microsoft system products. No Microsoft product support is available in this forum. Win32 SDK (GO MSWIN32) This forum provides information and discussion on the Microsoft Windows NT Win32 SDK, Windows NT DDK, and Win32 API issues on other platforms (such as Win32s). Windows SDK (GO WINSDK) This forum provides product support and information for the Microsoft Windows 3.x SDK and DDK. Windows Objects (GO WINOBJ) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft Windows Objects, Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) 2.0. MFC library (GO MSMFC) This forum provides product support and information on the Microsoft Foundation Class (MFC) library. Plug and Play (GO PLUGPLAY) This forum provides product support, information and discussion on Plug and Play hardware. Windows Extensions (GO WINEXT) This forum provides product support and information for extensions to Microsoft Windows, including TAPI, WOSA/XRT, WOSA/XFS, Windows for Workgroups SDK, Far East SDK, Arabic/Hebrew SDK, Pen SDK, and ODBC. Windows Multimedia (GO WINMM) This forum provides product support and information on Windows multimedia platforms, including Video for Windows, Viewer 2.0, and Microsoft Windows(TM) Sound System. Client Server Computing (GO MSNETWORKS) This forum providers product support and information for Microsoft networking systems, including LAN Manager. MS Workgroups (GO MSWRKGRP) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft's workgroup applications and systems, including MAPI, Windows for Workgroups, and Workgroup Connection. MS-DOS (GO MSDOS) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft MS-DOS. MS Windows (GO MSWIN) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft Windows. MS Windows NT (WINNT) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft Windows NT. Microsoft Access (GO MSACCESS) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft Access. Basic Languages (GO MSBASIC) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft's Basic Languages family of products, including Visual Basic and Microsoft QuickBasic(TM). C and Other Languages (GO MSLANG) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft C, QuickC, Visual C++, Assembler, and other languages and utilities. Fox Software (GO FOXFORUM) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft's Fox database products. MS Programming Apps (GO PROGMSA) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft applications programming languages and tools, including WordBasic and the Microsoft Excel SDK. MS SQL Server (GO MSSQL) This forum provides product support and information for Microsoft SQL Server. [ Usenet Forums ]------------------------------------------------------------- This section discusses Usenet (Net News) newsgroups which are of interest to developers for Windows. Unlike many of the CompuServe forums which are monitored by Microsoft Developer Support, Microsoft does not support, monitor, or officially participate in any of these peer-to-peer forums. comp.os.ms-windows.announce This moderated newsgroup provides a forum for announcements and news about Windows-based applications, drivers, events etc. comp.os.ms-windows.programmer.tools This newsgroup provides a forum for discussions about Windows-based development tools, including bugs and comparisons. comp.os.ms-windows.programmer.win32 This newsgroup provides a forum for discussions about developing for the Win32 API (including Windows, Windows NT and Win32s). comp.os.ms-windows.programmer.misc This newsgroup provides a forum for all other Windows-based programming and development discussions. comp.os.ms-windows.apps This newsgroup provides a forum for discussions about applications for Windows and Windows NT, including hints, tips, bugs and comparisons. comp.os.ms-windows.setup This newsgroup provides a forum for Windows setup/configuration issues. comp.os.ms-windows.nt.setup This newsgroup provides a forum for Windows NT setup/configuration issues. comp.os.ms-windows.misc This newsgroup provides a forum for all other discussions about Windows which do not have explicit newsgroups (i.e., no programming, advocacy, setup, etc. issues). comp.os.ms-windows.nt.misc This newsgroup provides a forum for all other discussions about Windows NT which do not have explicit newsgroups (i.e., no programming, advocacy, setup, etc. issues). comp.os.ms-windows.advocacy This newsgroup provides a forum for comparisons and arguments about Windows and Windows NT vs. other operating systems. comp.binaries.ms-windows This moderated newsgroup provides a forum distribution of Windows and Windows NT binary files (shareware, freeware, drivers, etc.). bit.listserv.win3-l This newsgroup provides a two-way gateway to the BITNET WIN3-L discussion list. For more information on the WIN3-L discussion list, see the "WIN3-L (Windows 3.x discussion list)" section elsewhere in this document. Another resource on Usenet are two FAQs (lists of Frequently Asked Questions -- and answers), distributed in both ASCII text and Windows Help formats. The Microsoft Windows Programmer FAQ is a compilation of common user information. The Windows Programmer FAQ is a compilation of Windows software development information. The Windows Help format of these documents are regularly posted to the comp.binaries.ms-windows newsgroup, and the ASCII text version of both of these documents are regularly posted to the comp.os.ms-windows.announce newsgroup. As well, the files are available via anonymous FTP. The files have filenames in the format of FAQWIN.ZIP (Windows) and FAQPRG.zip (Windows Programmer), where is the version number. The following sites carry these files: FTP.Pitt.EDU:/users/i/n/infidel/win/FAQ WUArchive.WUSTL.EDU:/usenet/comp.binaries.ms-windows/faqs FTP.Metrics.COM:/faq [ Internet Forums ]----------------------------------------------------------- This section discusses many of the various mailing lists and digests on the Internet and BITNET which are of interest to developers for Windows. Unlike many of the CompuServe forum which are monitored by Microsoft Developer Support, Microsoft does not support, monitor, or officially participate in any of these peer-to-peer forums. NTDev (Windows NT development) NTDev is a mailing list for discussions of developer issues regarding Windows NT. To join the list, send email to the administrator at: NTDev-Request@Atria.COM (Internet) To post messages to the mailing list, email messages to: NTDev@Atria.COM (Internet) Windows-NT (Windows NT) Windows-NT is a mailing list for discussions of user and developer issues regarding Windows NT. The list is looked after by the European Microsoft Windows NT Academic Centre (EMWAC) based at the University of Edinburgh. To join the list, send email with a message of: JOIN Windows-NT where is your first name and is your last name to: Mailbase@Mailbase.AC.UK (Internet) To post messages to the mailing list, email messages to: Windows-NT@Mailbase.AC.UK (Internet) LANMAN-L (Windows NT Advanced Server and LAN Manager) LANMAN-L is a mailing list for discussions of user and developer issues regarding Microsoft LAN Manager. To subscribe to the list, send email with a message of: SUBSCRIBE LANMAN-L where is your first name and is your last name to: LANMAN-L-Request@List.NIH.GOV (Internet) LANMAN-L-Request@NIHLIST.BITNET (BITNET) To post messages to the mailing list, email messages to: LANMAN-L@List.NIH.GOV (Internet) LANMAN-L@NIHLIST.BITNET (BITNET) WFW-L (Windows for Workgroups) WFW-L is a mailing list for discussions of user and developer issues regarding Microsoft Windows for Workgroups. To subscribe to the list, send email with a message of: SUBSCRIBE WFW-L where is your first name and is your last name to: LISTSERV@UMDD.UMD.EDU (Internet) LISTSERV@UMDD.BITNET (BITNET) To post messages to the mailing list, email messages to: WFW-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU (Internet) WFW-L@UMDD.BITNET (BITNET) WIN3-L (Windows 3.x) WIN3-L is a mailing list for discussions of user and developer issues regarding Microsoft Windows 3.x products. To subscribe to the list, send email with a message of: SUBSCRIBE WIN3-L where is your first name and is your last name to: LISTSERV@UICVM.UIC.EDU (Internet) LISTSERV@UICVM.BITNET (BITNET) To post messages to the mailing list, email messages to: WIN3-L@UICVM.UIC.EDU (Internet) WIN3-L@UICVM.BITNET (BITNET) Microsoft, FoxPro, Microsoft Access, MS-DOS, QuickC, Visual Basic, and Win32 are registered trademarks and Microsoft At Work, Microsoft QuickBasic, Visual C++, Win32s, Windows and Windows NT are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. CompuServe is a registered trademark of CompuServe, Inc. Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corp.