The .NET Compact Framework brings the world of managed code and XML Web services to smart devices, and it enables the execution of secure, downloadable applications on devices such as personal digital assistants (PDA's), mobile phones, and set-top boxes.

The Definitive Guide to the .NET Compact Framework' targets both first time and experienced mobile developers and is a comprehensive guide to building mobile applications using the .NET Compact Framework (CF) and Smart Device Extensions (SDE) for Visual Studio .NET. Expert authors Larry Roof and Dan Fergus provide developers with everything they need to produce robust applications, including how to create effective user interfaces, work with device-based data sources, access enterprise data, leverage Web services, incorporate XML into applications, build help systems, and generate setup routines.

Contents

• The .NET Compact Framework
• Smart Device Extensions
• Designing an Effective Interface
• NETCF Controls
• Creating Controls
• Menus, Toolbars, and Status Bars
• Graphics
• Files and Directories
• Introduction to ADO.NET
• Data Binding
• Introduction to SQL Server CE
• Working with Server-Based Data
• Working with Device-Based Data
• Working with XML
• Mobile Networking
• XML Web Services
• Working with Unmanaged Code
• Working with POOM
• Building Help Systems
• Application Settings
• Creating Setups for Your Applications
• Producing Reports

• Appendix A: Setting Up Your Development Environment: A Quick Step-Through
• Appendix B: Working with the Emulator
• Appendix C: Resources
• Appendix D: Sample Applications
• Appendix E: Error Handling
• Appendix F: Custom Controls in C#