Visual Basic component development is handled first with an excellent introduction to components and class development in VB. The authors then explain the interconnection of ADO, UDA, and COM in a chapter that lays the foundation for a solid understanding of how components work. From there the authors discuss big picture application design issues such as n-tier architecture. The text utilizes concise code examples and frequent headings that make the book very useful for quick reference as you hone your component skills.

Microsoft Transaction Server (MTS) and resource management are addressed, and the authors show what you must do to make your components work with MTS. The first of two sophisticated case studies in the book--a document management system--illustrates how to work with XML with components. This example is lengthy but very informative since the authors take the time to explain each section. A second similar case study presents a fictitious movie theater application. These real-world examples, coupled with the structured tutorial content, make this guide a perfect way to get on the component bandwagon. --Stephen W. Plain