want to make a program

[Lightnb]

i want a program that has a graphic user interface. it has a keyword search field, that user can type the name of a song in. after they select a song from the results, the title is sent to another computer, via LAN, and is placed in a log file, for viewing. after, the user comp is reset to the original screen for the next user.

this program will be used to take song requests, and make them visible to the DJ. (as an alternative to the traditional yellow notepad)

what language should i use, and where can i find free resources on programming? i can program in "Basic" but that is not sutible for graphics

thanks for your help

Nick Rahl

[DrZaius]

Hi Lightnb, welcome to the PC Mech forums!

after they select a song from the results

Will the search be from a database of songs? If so, from the internet, or the local computer?

If you only plan on using this on a Windows system, your best bet would be Visual Basic since it's the easiest to use for making GUI programs and you can learn it faily quickly with a good book. If you need this program to run on other platforms (Mac or Linux as well as Windows), your only choice is Java. Hope that helps.

[Lightnb]

it will be a database on the user computer. the system will be mobile, therfore an internet connection will not be possible. windows is fine, both of my machines run it. if one uses XP, and the other Win98, will this pose a problem? what do i program VB in? is there a utility for this?(eg. i don't just open notepad and start typing, i assume)

Thanks, Nick

[DrZaius]

You need to purchase MS Visual Basic, which is the only way to compile programs written in VB. I think you can find a Standard or Learning edition (which should include most of the plugins and features you need) for around $100.

[doctorgonzo]

If you are a student, you can get the Academic version of Visual Basic from M$ for a little over a hundred bucks.