Topic: Whats The Most Useful Language (Read 285 times)

muerte · « **Reply #31 on:** August 11, 2003, 03:06:00 PM »

I've been learning C++ in high school for the past 2 years now (CS Beginner as well as AP CS). It's been pretty much my first language, unless you call basic/"TI-83 basic" languages. I must say, that my teachers have tried to inject some java into the classes as well. I was not happy with the so-called "ease of use" with java. For me it was the complete opposite. There are so many more ways to make careless mistakes.

For those of you who want to learn a language, I suggest going to a class to learn C++. In my experience, it is rather hard to learn a language through books/the internet. Maybe that's just the unmotivated kinda person I am. Don't start out with C, because by learning the basics of C++, you've already learned C. Once you learn C++, you can go onto such languages as Java and Perl (which are very similar to C++).

BTW, wish me luck in Artificial Intelligence as well as Computer Architecture next year;).

Quick question for BJ... I've been unhappy with my knowledge of graphics in the programming languages I already know. How would you suggest I get started with GUI as well 3d components in my work? Thanks in advance.

BenJeremy · « **Reply #32 on:** August 11, 2003, 03:19:00 PM »

QUOTE (muerte @ Aug 11 2003, 07:06 PM)

Quick question for BJ... I've been unhappy with my knowledge of graphics in the programming languages I already know. How would you suggest I get started with GUI as well 3d components in my work? Thanks in advance.

Well, that's a toughy, as far as graphics/DirectX goes. I've got tons of books, but they mostly just throw a bunch of code at you and by the time you get to the explanations, your eyes are glazed over.

There are TONS books, but probably the best start is a DirectX games programming book like one of the "Dummies" series, focusing on 2-D at first, then work in a knowledge of matrix math and 3-D rendering to get into the 3-D stuff.

The key to remember about 3-D rendering is that you basically define the 3-D space, then transform it into 2-D polygons to be displayed on the screen. Various aspects, such as the warping of textures, transparency and fog are generated as a result of the 3-D world you defined. It's a hard paradigm to think about, though.

As for GUI issues, learn MFC. If you know C++ encapsulation and inheritence well, just realize that MFC basically wraps a lot of the work required to manage Windows and the event-driven architecture.

TacoBalls · « **Reply #33 on:** August 11, 2003, 03:30:00 PM »

You know what language would be useful? That crazy african language where everyone clicks and whistles. That's what I'm talking about.

FIREitUP · « **Reply #34 on:** August 12, 2003, 01:47:00 PM »

still no answer to my question, what proggie to use to make websites and logos too? what language is best integrated in the internet world (no, i dont want to code HTML, thats a waste of time)

Wishi · « **Reply #35 on:** August 13, 2003, 02:32:00 AM »

QUOTE

what language is best integrated in the internet world

QUOTE

no, i dont want to code HTML, thats a waste of time

Ahahahaha, what a good one. Best integrated into the internet world, no I don't want to code HTML. What a laugh.

As you'll see much of this topic is about C/C++ development as this is an Xbox Development forum.

Note to BJ: You'll find a screenshot of XMarbles in the latest issue of Edge, the best UK games magazine, in an article about CXBX, so congrats to you and caustik.

Wishi · « **Reply #36 on:** August 13, 2003, 08:17:00 AM »

Xbox-Scene->Software->Development

I think that gives it away personally.

Mordenkainen · « **Reply #37 on:** August 13, 2003, 08:35:00 AM »

Oh and the description of the forum section:

"Only serious discussions about Xbox development."

But as far as web dev, VBScript, Java, HTML, DHTML, ASP, Perl, CGI, PHP, XML, CSS.

And you will have to learn most of them at one point or another, each does something the others do not or does it better!

Morden.

dankydoo · « **Reply #38 on:** August 13, 2003, 08:55:00 AM »

After reading all of the posts, I think it's important to inject some comments that are non-biased:

1.) C/C++ is a great tool for many jobs, the catch is that it is a tool that should be used when needed. Just like you don't kill a fly with a shotgun, you should use the correct tool for the right job. This is important to note when blazing fast speeds are not needed, and bare to the metal control is not needed. If I need a simple program to chat with someone remotely and want to implement it very fast, I would probobaly choose VB or Java instead of c++ because of higher productivity rates. Of course, speed critical applications (i.e. xbox game) I would definitely choose c or c++ (then again, it is the only choice, but I think you get my point).

2.) Java is making great strides to compile to NATIVE code, ever hear of gcj ? If you are more confortable programming in java eventually there will be little to no difference, but also c/c++ compilers have had ages to mature, whereas java native compilers are relatively new. Linux kernels can support java natively as well (if compiled in, or module is inserted). The portablility factor of java apps is nice, but alot of times it is not nearly as portable as one would think. It is easy to port between *nix's but, between widnows *nix complicated apps might give you hell. I personally prefer c/c++ over Java because I think some of the OOP ideas are overboard and overly complicated (i.e. BufferedWriter bw = new BufferedWriter(new PrintWriter(stream.getOutputStream())); etc...not sure if that's right but you get the picture).

3.) BenJeremy was right, language selection is a religious battle, similar things can be found in every area of the IT industry. For instance the OpenGL vs. DirectX battle, or the Linux vs Windows, AMD vs. Intel, Insert Technology here vs Insert Rival Technology here. Everybody has their favorite and noone is gonna tell them different, not matter what. That's basic human nature though, I find it funny how it shows up everywhere, even in computer geek-dom.

4.) It's about choice really, that's why there are many different languages. Of course, to begin with there are languages that are easier to use and teach the fundamentals and basic constructs of programming easier, but you should choose a language that suits your thought process along with the problem at hand.

5.) It's almost hypocritical to state that java programmers are a dime a dozen, then say c/c++ is very valuable, then say a c/c++ programmer can learn java in no time. Wouldn't the reverse be true? couldn't a Java programmer pick up c/c++ in no time? The syntaxes are incredibly similar, and one programmer or another could pickup either one with experience in the other. C# as well. Just to note, I am a c++ programmer by trade, and not a Java fanboy. I just like the ideas behind things like c# and java.

I hope this helps a little to anyone new to programming that needed some clarification on different technologies...

dankydoo

BenJeremy · « **Reply #39 on:** August 13, 2003, 09:11:00 AM »

Good points.

...and yes, Java programmers should be able to pick up C++ programming.

As it happens, my current work project has me hopping back into C# coding. My particular job has me doing a wide variety of languages and working with a lot of different technologies, from assembler, VB, C/C++, VHDL, Embedded systems, Windows, writing device drivers.... you name it.

gamingguru · « **Reply #40 on:** August 13, 2003, 05:45:00 PM »

programs normally used to make web pages(html editors).
1.Front Page(miscrosoft)
2.DreamweaverMX(macromedia)

gamingguru · « **Reply #41 on:** August 13, 2003, 05:47:00 PM »

O yea, one quick question.
I was flipping through my C++ book and it doesn't look like C++ has built a Built in graphics engine. Is this right?

FIREitUP · « **Reply #42 on:** August 15, 2003, 05:29:00 AM »

QUOTE (the_Watchers_eye @ Aug 14 2003, 06:07 AM)

QUOTE (FIREitUP @ Aug 12 2003, 10:47 PM)

still no answer to my question, what proggie to use to make websites and logos too? what language is best integrated in the internet world (no, i dont want to code HTML, thats a waste of time)

Start learning DreamWeaver MX as it is industry standard. To make things animated, its probably best to use Flash MX. Director MX is more of an overall multimedia tool, i.e. better with video, sound, etc.... so for normal animations and things, I would say flash, although director 8.5+ has some neat 3d tools. For your companies logo, you can use anything. Even MS Paint. But I would suggest something like Adobe Photoshop, or a program that is more simpler to use, for example Paint Shop Pro.

thank you. i tried using dreamweaver but it was a bit confusing to me cuz i never developed a website. i want one with cool flash, so i can develop a website in flash mx?

gamingguru · « **Reply #43 on:** August 18, 2003, 02:00:00 PM »

QUOTE

i want one with cool flash, so i can develop a website in flash mx?

Sort of, you can make your cool little flash "web site" with Flash MX, but you will still have to crank out some good old html before your flash app will load.

Probable something simple, telling you customer that they need the newest version bla bla bla.

Some Java script might be nice to have too.

dizturbd · « **Reply #44 on:** October 13, 2003, 09:13:00 PM »

This is all wonderful. I am really interested in programming as well, but moreso in the gaming industry. After a quick search, I found this degree program....UAT ONLINE. I was wondering if this will be helpful, or if I would just be throwing money away. I am more interested in the design aspect than programming, but I am willing to learn whatever it takes. I already have an Associate Degree in Architectural Drafting and know AutoCAD inside and out. I am just looking for the best way to learn everything I need for my future profession.

Author Topic: Whats The Most Useful Language (Read 285 times)