Summary

This chapter introduces the basics of using Windows Forms in Visual Basic .NET applications. In particular, it highlights using code-behind forms. One piece of sample code in the initial section illustrates how to persist the state of a form between sessions. You also learn how to open one form from another and coordinate the operation of the two forms by exchanging data between two form instances. Many Access developers will consider the most important feature of this chapter its demonstration of techniques for using Access databases with Windows Forms controls. The chapter demonstrates techniques for password validation, data browsing, combo box navigation within and between forms, and image file processing. It also presents a classic switchboard processing sample implemented with the Visual Basic .NET LinkLabel control.