VB & VBA in a Nutshell: The Language
Review by Tom Anderson
Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) is the language element that underlies Visual Basic (VB) and allows programming the applications in Microsoft Office. This book is a superbly useful reference to that language.
Lomax's goal was to create a detailed, professional reference for professional software developers. The reader should have experience in software development, but not necessarily in Visual Basic.
The first 107 pages offer an introduction to VBA and its elements, basic program structure, VBA variables and data types, class modules, automation, and error handling. The treatment of these subjects is concise but thorough. Lomax, a British programmer, has a gift for the English language: the book is a model of clarity and communication.
The bulk of the book is the language reference itself. It does not cover VB controls (the subject of a forthcoming O'Reilly title) or forms, or other elements that properly belong to the development environment rather than the language.
Each entry includes a description, syntax, the arguments accepted and data type returned (for functions and procedures), and the basic rules for the language element. "Programming tips and gotchas" cover undocumented behavior and practical applications for particular entries.
Merely describing the book does not do it justice. Lomax includes quite a bit of material about the evolution of VBA, its structure, and the uses of the language elements. He manages to make the material interesting, even entertaining.
This book is going straight to my essential reference shelf. It is a valuable addition to any VBA programmer's library.
VB & VBA in a Nutshell: The Language
By Paul Lomax
[$24.95, 658 pages]
O'Reilly & Associates, 1998
ISBN: 1-56592-358-8 |
The Little PC Book, Third Edition
Review by Tom Anderson
The third edition of this popular book is a terrific guide to the wonderful world of computing for someone new to PCs.
Lawrence Magid, the well-known computer commentator, takes the novice user gently through the various
areas—hardware, software, Windows, and the Internet—that frighten a beginner. He focuses primarily on Windows 98, but frequently notes differences in Windows 95.
Magid covers all the standard hardware and some not-so-common devices, like Zip drives, scanners, DVD, and even USB and Firewire ports. But he doesn't overload the reader with information; he says enough to explain the concepts and ignores the technical details.
Magid's section on Windows is the best and most thorough I've seen on the subject. He discusses every way of executing a command: menus, shortcut keys, and toolbars. He shows how to use a mouse; what all the parts of a menu mean; and how to use the taskbar. Other chapters cover customizing the desktop, performing routine cleanup and organization tasks, and dealing with common problems.
The section on the Internet, possibly the principal draw for new computer users, covers ISPs, portals, and software. Magid gives instructions only on Internet Explorer and Outlook Express, but does note that other programs are available and may contain preferable features.
Finally, Magid goes through the panoply of software applications, discusses how to choose and buy software, and what type of programs solve various problems.
The amusing illustrations by John Grimes add to the comfort level of the book. This would be the perfect gift for any new PC user.
The Little PC Book, Third Edition
By Lawrence J. Magid
[$19.99, 380 pages]
Peachpit Press, 1999
ISBN: 0-201-35366-0
|
