In addition, the other commercial C++ vendor, Borland Software, also provides training and certification programs. They too offer a certification program. Although it may not be as well known outside of the industry, Borland's training courses and certification are well recognized by employers. More information on Borland's training courses and certification programs can be found on its Web site atwww.borland.com/services/training/certification.
Online Training
There are many online schools that teach everything from C++ basics to advanced C++ concepts. Before choosing any of these training agencies, it is a good idea to read over their course descriptions to ensure that the course covers the material you desire and in a delivery method that will work for you. Furthermore, reading course outlines will enable you to confirm whether you have the right equipment and prerequisites for the course. The following list contains three online training schools that will give you some idea of the material offered and how it is offered:
- Knowledge Concepts (www.pcon.com) offers Web-based Microsoft official curriculum training. Delivery of courseware includes instructor led segments and video captures to assist students through the various sections. Students enrolled in the course also have access to instructor email, online chats, and practice exams.
- Infotec (www.infotec.com) offers courses and certifications including Microsoft's Visual C++. It is a good site to check out to get an understanding of what Web-based training is all about.
- Element K (www.elementk.com/) offers several online C++ courses that start with introductory level courses and continue with more advanced topics. Courses begin by introducing C++ concepts and language basics.You can then continue on to more advanced topics using more complex features.
One of the great aspects of learning a computer programming language is that you do not need a great deal of equipment to learn the basics. With a language like C++, all you need is a copy of the software, a personal computer, and a certain amount of patience.
To obtain a copy of the C++ compiler, you will need to spend some money. When learning a new product or technology, it pays to stay in the mainstream. In C++ terms, that means using a product from Borland or Microsoft.
Microsoft has three different offerings in its Visual C++ product family. The Standard Edition, which costs around $100, is suitable for those starting out in C++ development and perhaps offers the most practical way to get a solid foundation in the language.The next version, called Professional Edition, costs quite a bit more at around $500, but comes with advanced features and capabilities. Finally, the Enterprise Edition, which retails around the $1300 mark, offers even more features.
You can find more detailed information concerning Microsoft C++ products at http://msdn.microsoft.com/visualc.
Borland has offerings at similar price points and uses the same terminology, Standard, Professional, and Enterprise, to define the different levels of capability. Approximate prices for the Borland C++ product are $100, $800, and $2500, respectively. To find out more information about Borland products, visit Borland's Web site at www.borland.com/bcppbuilder.
Additional Resources
For those seeking more information on C++, there are limitless resources both online and in local bookstores. Whether you need information on job postings, associations, or assistance from other programmers, the information is readily available. The following section provides information on C++ resources, but the list is by no means comprehensive or exhaustive. It does however provide all the information necessary to begin your quest towards a possible career as a C++ programmer.
C++ Jargon Buster
When searching for more information about C++, you may come across phrases or words that you may not be familiar with.To help you better understand the information you find, the following list contains some definitions and explanations that you may find useful:
- Source Code-Source code refers to the code or instructions written by a programmer. Source code is not in executable format and is not ready to run on the computer. It must first be translated by interpreters or compilers.
- Compiler-A program that translates high-level computing languages into object code or machine code. Numerous compilers are available for all computer languages.
- Object Code-The end product after the compiler has finished.This code is executable and ready to be used by the computer.
- Class Library-A reusable collection of software code, or routines. There are numerous references and resources online to access these libraries.The libraries often contain heavily used graphical user interface (GUI) functions.
