Microsoft Windows Software Development Kit for Version 3.0 Provides Powerful Tools for Developing Feature-Rich Graphical Applications REDMOND, Wash. -- MAY 22, 1990 -- Microsoft today announced that it will release the Microsoft(R) Windows(TM) Software Development Kit (SDK) for Windows version 3.0 in early summer. This powerful set of tools simplifies the process of developing comprehensive applications for the Microsoft Windows graphical environment, allowing users to take full advantage of the new features of Windows version 3.0. An improved graphical user interface and the ability to directly address up to 16MB of RAM on machines with an 80286 processor, plus virtual memory on 80386-based systems are key features of the SDK. Among the development tools included in the SDK are: o A Microsoft CodeView(R) debugger for Windows o Resource editing tools o Optimization tools o New source code examples o Documentation in both online and hardcopy form "Users are looking for graphical applications," said Bill Gates, Microsoft chairman and chief executive officer. "This toolkit makes it easier for developers to build comprehensive Windows applications and gives them the tools they need to access the memory-management capabilities in Windows 3.0." Enhanced Debugging Tools ------------------------ The SDK includes three powerful debugging tools: First, Microsoft CodeView debugger for Windows has been enhanced to work in protected mode. Because of its ability to access extended memory, it is ideal for debugging large applications. Multiple windows let the developer simultaneously view source code, memory locations, registers and Windows messages while the program is running. Second, a low-level debugger enables developers to view memory selectors in protected mode. The third debugging tool, a symbolic debugger, supports testing under real mode. Improved Resource Editing Tools ------------------------------- Resource editing tools contained in the Microsoft Windows SDK enhance the process of developing graphical applications. These tools include a dialog editor for designing and testing dialog boxes on-screen; SDK Paint for designing bitmapped graphics, icons and cursors; a font editor for altering existing fonts or creating new ones; and a resource compiler for binding resources such as application icons, cursors, menus and dialog boxes into a Windows application. Optimization Tools ------------------ Two new optimization tools have been added to the Software Development Kit. The first, Swap Tuner, reduces calls across code segments by analyzing the calls, swaps, discards and procedure returns that occur during program execution. The second, Profiler, calculates the amount of time that the Windows interface spends executing specific sections of code. Other analysis tools include Spy, which verifies the receipt of messages sent to a specified application window and examining the values of message parameters; Heap Walker, which examines the program's allocation of memory; and Shaker, which demonstrates the effects of memory movement and verifying that code and data segments lock properly. Thorough Documentation ---------------------- The Microsoft Windows SDK comes with complete documentation, including: o An Installation and Update Guide that provides instructions on installing the SDK and highlights new features. o Online help in two forms: Windows Help for use within the Windows environment; and the Microsoft Advisor, for use within the Programmer's Workbench integrated editing environment. o New, enhanced source-code examples for hands-on learning. o A Guide to Programming that provides step-by-step instructions on developing Windows applications and covers such advanced topics as dynamic data exchange, memory management and dynamic link libraries. o An IBM CUA Style Guide that provides guidance in designing user interfaces that are in compliance with IBM(R)'s Common User Access guidelines, a component of IBM's SAA (Systems Applications Architecture) standard. o A two-volume Reference manual that contains thorough descriptions of all Windows Application Program Interfaces (APIs), including functions, messages, data structures and file formats. o A Tools manual that describes all the resource editing, debugging and optimization tools included in the SDK. System Requirements, Pricing, Availability ------------------------------------------ The Microsoft Windows SDK is compatible with personal computers using the Intel(R) 286, 386(TM) or higher processor; 640K conventional memory and 384K extended memory; MS-DOS(R) version 3.1 or higher; one 5.25-inch 1.2MB disk drive or one 3.5-inch 720K disk drive; a hard disk; a primary monitor with a EGA, ECG, VGA, 8514/A, Hercules(R) or compatible graphics adapter; a secondary monitor with a monochrome adapter card for use by the CodeView for Windows debugger; Microsoft C Optimizing Compiler version 5.1 or higher or Microsoft Macro Assembler version 5.1 or higher; a Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device (required for some development tools); and Microsoft Windows graphical environment version 3.0. When available, the SDK will be sold through standard Microsoft retail outlets at a suggested price of $500. Registered users of previous Windows SDKs can upgrade for $150; if the SDK is purchased after June 1, 1990, the upgrade is free. In addition to the Software Development Kit, a device driver development kit will be available. For developers interested in developing for OS/2, a software migration kit also will be available to registered SDK users. This kit will allow developers to further leverage their efforts by porting their Windows applications to OS/2. The kit will allow even highly complex applications to be ported in a matter of days. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ "MSFT") develops, markets and supports a wide range of software for business and professional use, including operating systems, languages and application programs, as well as books, CD-ROM products and hardware for the microcomputer marketplace. ### Microsoft, the Microsoft logo, MS-DOS and CodeView are registered trademarks, and Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Hercules is a registered a registered trademark of Hercules Computer Technology. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. Intel is a registered trademark, and 386 is a trademark of Intel Corporation.