MCAD/MCSD Training Guide (70-310): Developing XML Web Services and Server Components with Visual Basic(R) .NET and the .NET Framework

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Hardware and Software You'll Need

Although you can build Visual Basic .NET applications using nothing more than the tools provided in the free .NET Framework SDK, to pass the exam you'll need to have access to a copy of Visual Studio .NET. Visual Studio .NET includes many tools and features not found in the free command-line tools. There are three editions of Visual Studio .NET:

• Professional. Visual Studio .NET Professional is the entry-level product in the product line. This edition allows you to build Windows, ASP.NET, and Web services applications. It includes visual design tools, Crystal Reports, and the MSDE version of SQL Server 2000.

• Enterprise Developer. Building on the Professional edition, the Enterprise Developer edition adds the full version of SQL Server 2000, Visual SourceSafe, Application Center Test, Visual Studio Analyzer, and developer licenses for Exchange Server, Host Integration Server, and Commerce Server. It also contains additional samples and templates.

• Enterprise Architect. The high-end Enterprise Architect edition adds Visio Enterprise Architect, a development license for SQL Server, and high-end enterprise templates.

You should be able to complete all the exercises in this book with any of the three editions of Visual Studio .NET. Your computer should meet the minimum criteria required for a Visual Studio .NET installation:

• Pentium II or better CPU running at 450MHz or faster.

• Windows NT 4.0 or later.

• Memory depending on the operating system you have installed: 64MB for Windows NT 4.0 Workstation, 96MB for Windows 2000 Professional, 160MB for Windows NT 4.0 Server or Windows XP Professional, or 192MB for Windows 2000 Server.

• 3.5GB of disk space for a full installation.

• CD-ROM or DVD drive.

• Video card running at 800x600 with at least 256 colors.

• Microsoft or compatible mouse.

Of course, those are minimum requirements. I recommend the following more realistic requirements:

• Pentium III or better CPU running at 800MHz or faster.

• Windows 2000.

• At least 256MB of RAM, and as much more as you can afford.

• 5GB of disk space for a full installation.

• CD-ROM or DVD drive.

• Video card running at 1280x1024 or higher with at least 65,000 colors.

• Microsoft or compatible mouse.

You might find it easier to obtain access to the necessary computer hardware and software in a corporate environment. It can be difficult, however, to allocate enough time within a busy workday to complete a self-study program. Most of your study time will probably need to occur outside of normal working hours, away from the everyday interruptions and pressures of your job.