Microsoft

Microsoft 0-7356-1725-2 Net Compact Framework Guide

Name: Microsoft 0-7356-1725-2 Net Compact Framework Guide
Brand: Microsoft
SKU: 0-7356-1725-2

The definitive developer reference for building mobile applications on the .NET Compact Framework with VB.NET and C# examples.

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Overview

The Microsoft .NET Compact Framework Guide (ISBN 0-7356-1725-2) is a comprehensive developer reference aimed at building applications for mobile devices and resource-constrained hardware using Microsoft's .NET Compact Framework. Written for intermediate to advanced developers, it walks through the full spectrum of mobile application development — from creating GUI elements with Web Forms to transferring data via XML Web services and managing local and remote data sources. Each technique is illustrated with code samples in both Visual Basic .NET and Visual C# .NET, making it accessible regardless of language preference.

A particularly valuable section addresses disconnected application operation, a critical concern for mobile devices that may not always have network access. The guide also tackles the practical challenge of migrating existing full-framework .NET applications to the Compact Framework's more constrained environment. A quick reference appendix comparing the Compact Framework to the full .NET Framework helps developers quickly identify API differences and limitations. While the .NET Compact Framework has been superseded by modern platforms, this book remains relevant for teams maintaining legacy mobile applications or for developers interested in understanding the foundations of Microsoft's mobile development strategy.

Specifications

Publisher

Microsoft Press

ISBN

0-7356-1725-2

Languages Covered

Visual Basic .NET, Visual C# .NET

Platform

.NET Compact Framework

Topics

GUI/Web Forms, XML Web Services, Local/Remote Data, Disconnected Operation

Appendix

.NET Compact Framework vs. Full .NET Framework Comparison

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

Covers both Visual Basic .NET and Visual C# .NET with dual code samples
Includes a comparison appendix between .NET Compact Framework and full .NET Framework
Addresses both new mobile development and migration of existing applications
Covers practical topics like disconnected operation and XML Web services for mobile scenarios

👎 Cons

Targets the original .NET Compact Framework, which is now a legacy platform superseded by modern mobile frameworks
Content does not apply to current mobile development approaches like Xamarin or .NET MAUI
Published by Microsoft Press in an era before smartphones, limiting relevance to modern device development
Physical book format with no indication of digital or updated editions

Frequently Asked Questions

What programming languages does this guide cover?

The book provides code samples in both Visual Basic .NET and Visual C# .NET, so developers working in either language can follow along with the techniques and examples.

Is this book about the full .NET Framework or the Compact Framework?

It focuses specifically on the .NET Compact Framework, which targets mobile devices and resource-constrained hardware. It also includes a quick reference appendix comparing the Compact Framework to the full .NET Framework.

What topics are covered in the guide?

The book covers GUI development using Web Forms, data transfer via XML Web services, working with local and remote data sources, and building applications that operate in disconnected mode — all within the context of mobile development.

Is this guide useful for migrating existing desktop applications to mobile?

Yes. The book specifically addresses techniques for migrating existing .NET applications to mobile devices, in addition to building new mobile applications from scratch.