Clipper to Windows via MASM

[axtens]

I'm maintenance programming for a Clipper developer. I have heard that it is theoretically possible for 16bit to do stuff in 32bit through a thing called "thunking". Where do I go to get the info required for this, rather esoteric, pursuit.

Kind regards,
Bruce.

[MichaelW]

Aren't there versions of Clipper that will run as Win32 apps, and wouldn't it be easier to use one of those?

[fearless]

Ive used Clipper before (Nantucket Summer '87 and CA v5.xx), and the only products i was aware of that were compatible that allowed windows features (to run as a Win32 app) where GE UltimADE and Computer Associates Visual Objects. I assume your talking about v5.2e or suchlike. What do you need to do - maybe if you can let us know what it is, someone might be able to come up with a suggestion?

[P1]

I'm maintenance programming for a Clipper developer. I have heard that it is theoretically possible for 16bit to do stuff in 32bit through a thing called "thunking". Where do I go to get the info required for this, rather esoteric, pursuit.

Mixed mode tasks approach with the data would be ideal.  It keeps the two system separate and non-dependant to each other except for the data.  Too many times, 16bit systems goes out of memory on you.

16bit output a task trigger file/data.
32bit processes task trigger file/data, produces a 16bit merge file/data.
16bit task to refresh data from 32bit task file/data.

We use this technique to synchronize data between non-compatible systems of processing as well.

Seeing your still using 16bit systems, I don't see an issue so much with real time presentation of data.  Though you can still get close to a low latency of current information.

Regards,  P1   :8)

[axtens]

That's the best suggestion I've had yet. Thanks, P1.  :U

[Evenbit]

Ive used Clipper before (Nantucket Summer '87 and CA v5.xx), and the only products i was aware of that were compatible that allowed windows features (to run as a Win32 app) where GE UltimADE and Computer Associates Visual Objects. I assume your talking about v5.2e or suchlike. What do you need to do - maybe if you can let us know what it is, someone might be able to come up with a suggestion?

Actually there are more options nowdays.  Check out these:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clip_%28compiler%29
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harbour_compiler
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clipper_programming_language

also, look what this dude is doing:
http://jalaj.net/2006/12/22/low-level-handling-of-dbf-files/

Nathan.