C++ Compiler Manual

Hi guys,

I actually really feel stupid about what I'm about to ask but I'm stumpted. Sometimes when I read some new book, the author says, see your compiler manual (a.k.a documentation / user's guide)... the problem is, I have no idea what they're referring to? :confused: This really makes me feel stupid. I've finally decided to find it and have just spent a few hours searching for this manual without any luck. Where in the world can I find it? Is it in MSDN? Or elsewhere, if so, could anyone give me a link? Or should I be searching for it in the install directory on my HDD (which I've already done anyway)? And in general, is it a PDF, HTML, HLP file or what?

Geez I'd never thought I would post this :(

In the good old days, compilers used to be shipped with manuals, but it is rarely the case anymore. MSDN is a manual, Google may be seen as another manual, and Codeguru is here for your questions about what is missing in manuals.

I recall "lovingly" that the "manual" for AIX Unix compiler consisted of about 20 volumes and took about 1/2 day to find anything. The last manual I saw shipped with Microsoft compiler was about 10 volumes. I'm glad they made them electronic so we can do searches and the manuals have hyperlinks to other parts of the manual :)

Thanks guys. But, stober, do you mean you have a copy of the electronic manual for Microsoft compiler? Is it available online? Can it be downloaded in general? I'd like to take a peek at that monster :D

when you BUY the compiler you get an electronic copy of MSDN on CD(s). MSDN contains information about all M$ development tools and compilers. If you don't want to spend the $$$, just go to www.msdn.microsoft.com. Its not as easy to use but has more up-to-date information.

ahh you meant that, but yes, even though I have it on CDs, I prefer to use online version :)

Yea, the MSDN library is great, it does take up a a bit of space though(3.2Gb or something like that, with 2003.NET full install) But I find myself using it all the time.

Are you looking for specific error codes, if so type them in where it says search on the msdn site. If you looking for how to use something, search. :D