Converting from IDL to VB6 or .Net

One of DocJet's more advanced features is the ability to convert a commented IDL file into either VB6 or the .Net languages.

If you have an IDL file that is implemented by C++, you can put your comments in either the IDL or in the C++ that implements it. We feel that the best plan is to put the comments in the IDL. First off, it simplifies things - the more files you have DocJet read, the more things can go wrong. Secondly, the IDL constitutes the interface of an object while the C++ is the implementation. The documentation should always refer to the interface, never to the implementation, so putting the documentation in with the interface keeps the writer in the proper frame of mind.

Making this transformation happen is very easy. When you first specify your project to DocJet, the wizard will notice the presence of the IDL file and help you set your project up appropriately. You will also have the option to convert your IDL into the .Net family languages.