March 1998

Quick ZDtips

Would you like to receive a weekly C++Builder tip in your E-mailbox, free of charge? Then, visit www.zdtips.com, where you can sign up for C++Builder tips, as well as tips covering a wide range of other applications. Here are some samples of the tips you'll receive each week.

Converting via the Watch List

by Kent Reisdorph

You can use the Watch List as a handy tool to convert decimal and hexadecimal numbers. Choose Run | Add Watch... from C++Builder's main menu to open the Watch Properties dialog box, then enter the number in the Expression field. If you're converting a hexadecimal number, click OK to see both the hexadecimal and decimal versions displayed in the Watch List window. If you're converting a decimal, click on the Hexadecimal radio button in the dialog box, then click OK.

Icons large and small

by Kent Reisdorph

In 32-bit Windows, an icon really consists of two icons: one large and one small. Both reside in the same ICO file. The large icon measures 32 by 32 pixels; Windows uses it for shortcuts, in dialog boxes, and in Explorer when you choose to view files as large icons. The small icon measures 16 by 16 pixels; Windows uses it on the taskbar, on application title bars, in the File | Open... dialog box, and in Explorer when you choose to view files as small icons. When you're creating your own icon, Windows doesn't require you to provide the small version. Instead, you can create only a large icon and Windows will shrink it in situations requiring a small icon. Be aware, however, that the shrunken icon's quality may not be high enough to meet your standards; it's often worth the extra effort to create both sizes.